EUROPEAN HEALTH INSURANCE CARD (EHIC)

The European Health Insurance Card has replaced the E111 travel document.

On 31 December 2005, the E111 ceased to be valid. From 1 January 2006, you need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to receive healthcare that becomes necessary during your visit to an EEA country or Switzerland.

In most countries around the world you will have to pay for treatment so travellers are strongly advised to take out private health insurance. The UK has reciprocal healthcare agreements with some countries, which enables travellers to receive free or low cost emergency care.

The EHIC is a card that entitles the holder to free or reduced cost emergency medical treatment anywhere in the European Economic Area (EEA).

If you become ill or have an accident during a trip to Europe, just present your EHIC to the hospital or doctor who is treating you. The EHIC entitles you to the same treatment as residents of the country you're visiting. Only treatment provided under the state scheme is covered.

Note: the EHIC is not a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance.

Who is eligible for an EHIC?

Any person who is ordinarily resident in the UK, is eligible for an EHIC. However, you must be over 16 years of age in order to apply. Residents of the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are not eligible.

All EEA (European Economic Area) countries are to issue the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) as a replacement for the E111 form.

How to apply for an EHIC

EHIC Applications Line: 0845 606 2030

Pick up an EHIC application pack from your local Post Office branch.

Online via the EHIC website (www.ehic.org.uk).

Your European Health Insurance Card will be delivered within 7-10 days of your application. An EHIC will last from 3 to 5 years.