European Health

The European Health Insurance Card - What is it?

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is a replacement for the old E111 and can be used to cover any necessary medical treatment due to either an accident or illness within the European Economic Area (EEA). The EHIC entitles the holder to State-provided medical treatment within the country they are visiting and the service provided will be the same as received by a person covered by the country's 'insured' medical scheme.

Why do I need an EHIC Card?

Visitors to Europe could have their travel insurance claims rejected if they do not have a valid EHIC card, it has emerged. Insurance Experts warned that increasing numbers of travel insurers are inserting clauses into their policies requiring the cards, meaning that travellers are not covered by insurance alone.

"Some insurers will refuse your cover if you failed to travel with a valid card". Therefore it is vital that you have an up to date EHIC card and a full travel insurance policy when travelling in the EEA area in order to cover any medical treatment due to either accident or illness.

How to apply for the EHIC

		At the Post Office
		You can pick up an application from most main Post Office Counters and post it yourself or, you can opt to use the Post Office Check & Send Service at a cost of £2 per application. Your application should be processed within 21 days.

		By Telephone
		You can telephone the NHS Business Services Authority EHIC Application Line on 0845 606 2030. Your application should be processed within 10 days. There will be no charge for making your application in this way.

		Online using the NHS Business Services Authority
		You can use the NHS Business Services Authority website which can be found here to apply for your EHIC. There will be no charge for making your application in this way and you should receive your card(s) within 7 working days.

		This Website
		You can use the application service on this website for which there will be a processing fee of £14.99. We will endeavour to verify and submit your application to the NHS Business Services Authority within 24 hours of receipt (excluding weekend).