To help make your holiday planning as smooth and stress-free as possible, here’s a simple guide to what’s changing, how the GHIC works, and why it’s still such an important part of travelling in Europe.
EHIC vs GHIC
EHIC (European Health Insurance Card):
The old card many UK travellers already have; gives access to state healthcare in EU countries on the same basis as residents.
GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card):
The new, post-Brexit version for UK travellers; provides similar coverage for medically necessary state-provided care when you’re abroad in the EU.
How does the GHIC work?
The GHIC is designed to give you access to essential state healthcare while you’re on holiday in EU countries. That includes:
• Emergency treatment
• Treatment for ongoing or chronic health conditions
• Routine maternity care (as long as you’re not travelling specifically to give birth)
• Pre-arranged treatment, such as dialysis - but be sure to organise that before you leave
Note: Emergency dental treatment may also be covered if it’s considered medically necessary at the time - but routine or planned dental care isn’t included.
Just like the EHIC, the GHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance. It won’t cover:
• Private medical treatment
• Repatriation (getting you back home)
• Non-medical holiday problems like cancellations or lost luggage
For full peace of mind, many travellers choose to pair their GHIC with a comprehensive travel insurance policy.
Can you still use your EHIC?
If your UK EHIC card hasn’t expired yet, you can continue to use it until the date printed on the card. Once it expires, you’ll need a GHIC card to maintain your access to European state healthcare.
Who is eligible for a GHIC?
You may be eligible for a GHIC if:
• You’re legally living in the UK and not covered for healthcare by another EU/EEA country or Switzerland.
• You have a UK-issued S1 form (for people entitled to UK-funded healthcare while living abroad - often pensioners or certain workers).
• You have a UK-issued A1 certificate (confirming you pay National Insurance in the UK while abroad).
• You’re a family member or dependant of someone else who qualifies.
How to apply for a GHIC
Sorting a GHIC card application is simple and free:
• Fill in the online application form with your National Insurance number and personal details.
• If you’re applying for family members (partner or children), you can include them - but each person gets their own card.
• Once your application is approved, expect your GHIC to arrive by post in roughly 15 working days.
• If your card hasn’t arrived in time, you can request a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) that proves you have cover.
💡 TIP: Apply through the official NHS website; avoid any third-party sites, as they may charge a fee for something that should cost you nothing.
Where can you use the GHIC?
A GHIC lets you access state healthcare in a country in the European Economic Area (EEA) - the same places where the EHIC worked. It’s also accepted in:
• Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man
• Montenegro
• St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
There are a few exceptions: for example, in Switzerland the GHIC is only valid in certain cases (depending on residency or nationality). Double-check before you go.
💡 TIP: Because healthcare agreements can change, it’s always worth checking the full list of EEA countries and where the GHIC is currently accepted before you travel.
Accessible holidays and the GHIC
For travellers who need accessible holidays - whether due to mobility issues, long-term health conditions or other special needs - the GHIC ensures you’re still entitled to necessary state care just like any other UK visitor. For travellers who benefit from additional assistance, it’s important to plan ahead with:
• Mobility-friendly accommodation
• Airport assistance
• Accessible transfer options
• Specialist insurance cover for mobility equipment
Top tips before you travel
• Check whether your EHIC is expiring soon - don’t wait until the last minute!
• Apply for a GHIC card early, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Arrange travel insurance that complements your GHIC.
• If accessibility is part of your travel plan, make sure support is booked well in advance.
• Keep a copy of important travel documents in your luggage.
About the author
Jeslin is happiest when exploring new places and immersing herself in different cultures. When she’s not travelling, she’s often getting lost in a good book (sometimes literally), enjoying wild adventures from the comfort of her sofa.