The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows eligible travellers to access state-provided healthcare when visiting participating European countries.

Although the UK has now left the European Union, many travellers still refer to the EHIC when searching for healthcare cover abroad. However, for most UK residents, the EHIC has now been replaced by the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).

If you are travelling to Europe, understanding how the EHIC and GHIC work is essential before you travel.

What Is The Difference Between The EHIC And GHIC?

The GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) replaced the EHIC for most UK residents following Brexit.

Both cards provide access to medically necessary state healthcare during temporary stays in participating European countries.

The key difference is that new applications are generally issued as a GHIC rather than an EHIC.

If you still have a valid EHIC, you can continue to use it until its expiry date.

What Does A GHIC Cover?

A valid GHIC may help you access healthcare services that become medically necessary during your trip, including:

• Emergency medical treatment
• Treatment for pre-existing conditions where necessary
• Maternity care
• Treatment for chronic illnesses
• Routine medical care required during your stay

Healthcare is provided on the same basis as local residents, meaning you may still need to pay some costs depending on the country you are visiting.

Healthcare systems vary significantly across Europe, so coverage and patient contributions can differ.

What Does A GHIC Or EHIC Not Cover?

Many travellers incorrectly assume that a GHIC replaces travel insurance.

It does not.

A GHIC does not cover:

• Private medical treatment
• Mountain rescue
• Medical repatriation back to the UK
• Lost luggage
• Flight cancellations
• Travel disruption
• Personal liability
• Stolen belongings

For this reason, comprehensive travel insurance remains essential regardless of whether you hold a GHIC.

Do You Still Need Travel Insurance If You Have A GHIC?

Yes.

Travel insurance and a GHIC serve completely different purposes.

A GHIC provides access to state healthcare services, while travel insurance protects you against a much wider range of financial risks that can occur before or during your trip.

Without travel insurance, travellers may face significant costs if they require:

• Emergency medical evacuation
• Air ambulance services
• Trip cancellation protection
• Emergency accommodation
• Legal assistance
• Cover for valuable possessions

For complete protection, travellers should always carry both a valid GHIC and suitable travel insurance.

Which Countries Accept The GHIC?

The GHIC is accepted in many European countries, including:

• France
• Spain
• Portugal
• Italy
• Greece
• Germany
• Austria
• Netherlands
• Belgium
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Malta
• Ireland

Coverage arrangements can change over time, so travellers should always check the latest government guidance before departure.

How To Apply For A GHIC

Applying for a GHIC is straightforward and free through the official UK Government website.

Applicants will typically need:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Address details
• National Insurance number (where applicable)

You should avoid unofficial websites that charge unnecessary administration fees for applications.

Can You Travel Without A GHIC?

Yes, a GHIC is not a legal requirement for travel.

However, travelling without one may make it more difficult to access state healthcare if you require medical treatment during your trip.

Applying before departure provides an additional layer of protection and can help reduce healthcare costs in eligible countries.

Is The GHIC Valid Outside Europe?

Generally, the GHIC is designed for participating European countries and does not provide worldwide healthcare cover.

Travellers visiting destinations outside Europe should ensure they have appropriate travel insurance with adequate medical cover.

Tips For Staying Healthy While Travelling In Europe

Before travelling, consider the following:

• Carry your GHIC with you at all times
• Keep digital copies of important documents
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
• Check destination-specific health requirements
• Carry prescription medication in original packaging
• Understand local emergency numbers

Being prepared can make a significant difference if you require medical assistance abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The EHIC Still Valid?

Yes. Existing EHIC cards remain valid until their expiry date. Once expired, most UK residents will be issued a GHIC instead.

Is A GHIC Free?

Yes. Official GHIC applications are completely free.

Does A GHIC Replace Travel Insurance?

No. A GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance and does not cover many travel-related risks.

How Long Does A GHIC Last?

GHIC cards are generally valid for several years before requiring renewal. Check the expiry date shown on your card.

Can I Use A GHIC In Spain?

Yes. Spain is one of the participating countries where eligible travellers can use a GHIC to access state healthcare.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're planning a city break, a Mediterranean beach holiday, a family ski trip or a European cruise, understanding how the GHIC works is an important part of travel preparation.

While a GHIC can help reduce healthcare costs if you become ill during your trip, it should always be viewed as a supplement to — not a replacement for — comprehensive travel insurance.

For complete peace of mind, travellers should ensure both are in place before departure.