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Introduction

It can be both difficult and expensive to get health treatment in some countries. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can help you cover the cost of any state-provided treatment necessary when visiting countries in the European Economic Area.

There are also things you can do before you go abroad to protect you and your family's health. For example, you should check the health risks in the country you plan to visit. Always make sure you have had any vaccinations you need before you go.

• Healthcare abroad - information from NHS Choices Opens new window

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

Your EHIC is free, and it's valid throughout the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. (The EEA consists of the European Union member states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.)

The card enables you to access reduced-cost, sometimes free, state-provided healthcare that becomes necessary during your trip because of either illness or an accident. It also covers you for pre-existing conditions. You can find full details of the cover and who is eligible on the NHS Choices website.

• Apply for a EHIC Opens new window

• Healthcare abroad - information from NHS Choices Opens new window

How do I get an EHIC?

The quickest way is to apply online. Your card will normally arrive within seven days.

You can also apply by phone on 0845 606 2030 or by post using an application form available from some post offices. You have to apply by post if you:

• are not a national of the UK, EEA or Switzerland
• are studying abroad
• are already working abroad but are UK employed or self employed

Applying for children and partners

You can apply:

• for yourself
• on behalf of your partner and any of your children under 16 (or under 19 if they're in full-time education)

Boarding school teaching staff can also apply on behalf of any children in their care.

For each person you are applying for, you will have to provide their:

• full name
• date of birth
• National Insurance or NHS number (CHI in Scotland or Health and Care number in Northern Ireland)

• More information from NHS Choices for people studying abroad Opens new window

• More information from NHS Choices for people working abroad Opens new window

How and when should I renew my EHIC?

EHICs are valid for up to five years.

You should apply for a new one before the expiry date - you can apply up to six months before your old card expires. The easiest way to apply is online or by phone on 0845 606 2030.

You can also apply by post using the form from some local post offices. But please note that postal applications take longer.

• Apply for or renew an EHIC Opens new window

How do I replace a lost or stolen EHIC?

If you need to replace a lost or stolen EHIC, call 0845 606 2030.

If the EHIC is lost or stolen while you are abroad, you can apply for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC). This will give you the same cover as an EHIC while you are abroad.

To get a PRC, call +44 (0)191 218 1999 (lines are open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm). Always store this number and take it with you when you travel abroad.

When applying for a PRC, you will need to give your:

• name
• address
• date of birth
• National Insurance or NHS number (CHI number in Scotland or Health and Care number in Northern Ireland)

Claiming a refund using your EHIC

Some countries expect you to pay your health bill upfront and then claim a refund using your EHIC. You should always try to apply for your refund before you travel back to the UK. For details on how to claim a refund, see the information for the country you're visiting in 'Claiming a refund through your EHIC - the country-by-country guide'.

If you need to make a claim when you're back in the UK, call the Overseas Healthcare Team on 0191 218 1999. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8.00 am to 5.00 pm.

• Claiming a refund using your EHIC – country-by-country guide Opens new window

Protecting your health when you travel

A little preparation can make a big difference. Before travelling, make sure you:

• More information on travel insurance

• NHS Choices - health advice for travellers Opens new window

• FCO website - travel health advice Opens new window

Useful contacts

• Foreign and Commonwealth Office

• Identity and Passport Service (IPS)

• ATOL (Air Travel Organisers' Licence) Opens new window