ARCHIVED - EHIC cards may be used in Spain until they expire and will be replaced by the GHIC card

The British Government maintains that travellers should also contract travel insurance

One topic which has been a big worry for many travellers planning to visit European countries post-Brexit is whether there will be a scheme in place to replace the EHIC system, which permits British nationals to access health care whilst travelling abroad.

The British Government has now announced that the UK has reached an agreement on healthcare when visiting the EU and that from the 4th January travellers will be able to apply for the new GHIC card which will replace the EHIC card..

Those who have a current EHIC card can continue to use it until it expires or can request a provisional replacement certificate (PRC) if treatment and have misplaced the existing card. If you don’t have your EHIC with you or you’ve lost it, you can call the NHS Overseas Healthcare Team on +44 191 218 1999 to get a Provisional Replacement Certificate.

Anyone applying for a card now will 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.

Beware of unofficial websites, which may charge if you apply through them. An EHIC or GHIC is free of charge.

The GHIC or EHIC entitles you to state provided medical treatment that may become necessary during your trip. Any treatment provided is on the same terms as Spanish nationals.

It’s important to take out appropriate travel insurance for your needs. A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance and you should have both before you travel. It does not cover all health-related costs, for example, medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment and non-urgent treatment.

From 1 January 2021, GHICs and most UK EHICs will not cover you in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland.

Click here for link to GHIC application page