New international health card launched

The EHIC is being replaced with the GHIC

The Government announced on Monday the launch of the card which will gradually replace the existing European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

The public only need to apply for a new GHIC when a current EHIC expires, the Government said.

Both cards will offer equivalent protection for emergency and medically-necessary healthcare needs when in the EU on a temporary stay, which includes holiday, study and business travel.

Despite the name, the GHIC is currently not valid anywhere outside the EU, consumer experts have said.

Existing EHIC cards are valid as long as they are in date and people can continue to use these when travelling to the EU.

Minister for health Edward Argar said: “Our deal with the EU ensures the right for our citizens to access necessary healthcare on their holidays and travels to countries in the EU will continue.

“The GHIC is a key element of the UK’s future relationship with the EU and will provide certainty and security for all UK residents.”

Cover for emergency and medically-necessary healthcare is part of a wider healthcare agreement struck with the EU that will see continued cooperation on healthcare for UK residents.

If a UK resident is travelling without a card, they are still entitled to necessary healthcare and should contact the NHS Business Services Authority (which covers the whole of the UK), who can arrange for payment should they require treatment when abroad.

EU member state EHICs will continue to be accepted by the NHS.

Alongside the deal with the EU, the Government says it is open to agreeing further reciprocal healthcare arrangements that can support UK residents when they travel.

Overseas travellers, whether they are heading to the EU or elsewhere in the world, are advised that they should always take out comprehensive travel insurance, as neither the EHIC nor the GHIC is a substitute for a full policy.

The new card is free from the official website. Consumer experts have already been warning people about dubious sites charging for cards.

To apply for a GHIC visit www.nhs.uk/GHIC

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