Travel health and the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

With a little forward planning, you can protect your health when travelling and avoid unexpected medical bills. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) gives you the right to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in the EU.

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

The UK has reached an agreement on healthcare when visiting the EU.

You can continue to use an European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or get a provisional replacement certificate (PRC) if you need treatment and do not have a card.

If you apply for a card now, you'll get a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) instead of an EHIC. 

You do not need to apply for a GHIC if you already have an EHIC. Your EHIC remains valid in the EU until it expires.

You can find out more at this link:

Visiting Europe 

You can find advice about healthcare when visiting Europe at this link:

Before you travel

There are things you can do before you go abroad to protect you and your family's health. Before travelling:

  • buy adequate travel insurance for your specific circumstances
  • check information about healthcare in the country you are going to
  • check online for the latest medical advice for travellers
  • find out what vaccinations you need at least six weeks before you travel – your GP surgery will be able to tell you
  • take enough supplies of any medication that you have been prescribed and carry a copy of the prescription with you
  • carry any medical letters about your health condition to help doctors and nurses abroad if you are taken ill

Travelling with children

Contact your GP, practice nurse or travel clinic for up-to-date information on any immunisations your child may need.

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