Moving from EHIC to GHIC

Why the transition from EHIC to GHIC matters

Since the UK left the European Union, the way British travellers access healthcare in Europe has changed. The GHIC was introduced to ensure that UK residents continue to receive necessary, state-provided medical treatment during temporary stays in the EU. It is important to check your current card now; if your EHIC has expired, you must transition to the GHIC to maintain your rights to discounted or free emergency care. Using an expired card could lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses that may have been avoidable with the correct documentation.

• The GHIC is free to obtain through the official NHS website
• Existing EHICs remain valid until the expiry date shown on the card
• Both cards cover emergency and 'medically necessary' treatment
• The GHIC does not currently cover EFTA countries like Switzerland or Iceland for most people
• The card must be presented at the point of treatment in a state hospital

What is covered by your GHIC

The GHIC covers state-provided healthcare that cannot reasonably wait until you return to the UK. This includes emergency room visits, treatment for symptoms that begin during your holiday, and routine care for pre-existing conditions that require monitoring, such as dialysis or oxygen therapy. However, for specific pre-arranged treatments like chemotherapy, you must arrange the care with the local provider in the destination country before you travel to ensure they can accommodate you under the reciprocal agreement.

What the GHIC does not cover

It is a common misconception that the GHIC is a substitute for travel insurance. The card only covers state-run facilities and does not provide any protection for private healthcare costs or mountain rescue. Crucially, the GHIC provides no cover for repatriation - the cost of flying you back to the UK in a medical emergency - which can cost tens of thousands of pounds. It also offers no protection for non-medical issues such as cancelled flights, lost baggage, or legal expenses incurred abroad.

• Private medical healthcare costs and private clinic fees
• Medical repatriation or emergency flights back to the UK
• Mountain rescue in ski resorts or remote areas
• Cruises are generally not covered by the GHIC agreement
• Lost, stolen, or damaged personal belongings and luggage
• Cancellation or curtailment of your holiday for any reason

Typical costs and insurance pricing factors

While the GHIC itself is free, travel insurance for Europe remains an essential expense. For a typical one-week trip to an EU destination in 2026, a basic insurance policy might cost between £10 and £30 depending on your age and health. Insurers often reduce your excess if you use a GHIC when receiving treatment, as it lowers the overall claim cost for the provider. Prices fluctuate based on the duration of your stay and whether you require additional cover for activities like winter sports or water-based excursions.

Considerations for pre-existing conditions

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, the GHIC is particularly valuable because it ensures you can access routine care for your condition while abroad. However, you must still declare all medical conditions to your travel insurer. Failing to disclose a condition could void your entire policy, leaving you responsible for any costs that the GHIC does not cover, such as an air ambulance. Always ensure your insurance policy explicitly lists your conditions and check that the destination has the facilities required for your specific health needs.

Making a claim and providing evidence

To use your GHIC, you must present the physical card or a digital Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) at the healthcare facility. If you do not have your card with you, you can apply for a PRC through the NHS Overseas Healthcare Services. When making a follow-up claim with your travel insurance provider for costs not covered by the GHIC, you will need to provide original receipts, medical reports, and evidence that you attempted to use your GHIC first. Most insurers require these documents to process any secondary reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses.

• Keep all receipts for prescriptions and co-payments
• Request a written medical report in English if possible
• Contact your insurer's 24-hour emergency line immediately
• Note down the name and address of the state hospital
• Keep your boarding passes as proof of your travel dates

The FCDO and regulatory context

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) strongly advises all British travellers to hold both a valid GHIC and comprehensive travel insurance. This dual approach is recommended because the quality and availability of state healthcare varies significantly across Europe. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulates the sale of travel insurance in the UK, ensuring that policies are sold fairly. If you feel a claim has been unfairly rejected despite following GHIC protocols, you have the right to escalate your complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS).

Practical checklist for European travel

Before heading to the airport, ensure you have completed these essential steps to protect your health and finances. Check the expiry date on your EHIC or GHIC at least two weeks before departure. If you need a new card, only use the official NHS website to avoid 'copycat' sites that charge a fee for a free service. Carry a printed copy of your travel insurance policy and save the emergency assistance number in your mobile phone. Finally, check the latest FCDO travel advice for your specific destination to understand any local health risks or entry requirements.