The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is the UK replacement for the old EHIC card. It is free, it is useful, and it is not a substitute for travel insurance. Here is what it actually does.

What the GHIC Covers

The GHIC entitles UK residents to access medically necessary healthcare in EU member states, EEA countries (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein), and Switzerland, on the same basis as residents of that country. In most EU countries that means state hospital treatment at no cost or at a reduced rate.

"Medically necessary" means treatment that cannot wait until you return to the UK: a broken leg, appendicitis, a serious infection, emergency surgery. It does not mean treatment you planned in advance or elective procedures.

The GHIC also covers treatment for pre-existing chronic conditions that require monitoring or maintenance during your trip.

What It Does Not Cover

The GHIC does not cover private healthcare. If you go to a private clinic, hospital, or doctor, the GHIC will not be accepted. Some countries, including France, have a mix of public and private provision that is not immediately obvious. Always ask whether you are entering a state or private facility before receiving treatment if you want to use the card.

It does not cover medical repatriation (being flown home for treatment). This is one of the most expensive potential costs of a medical emergency abroad and requires travel insurance.

It does not cover dental treatment beyond emergency extractions or immediate pain relief. Routine dental work, crowns, and non-emergency treatment are not covered.

It does not cover treatment in non-EU countries. Turkey, Morocco, Tunisia, the UAE, the US, and most long-haul destinations are not covered. The GHIC applies only to EU, EEA, and Switzerland.

It does not replace a cancelled flight or lost luggage or give you any of the other protections travel insurance provides.

How to Get One

Apply at nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad. It is free and takes a few minutes. Beware of commercial sites that charge for the same card: the GHIC is always free from the NHS. You will receive the card by post within 7-10 days.

GHIC and Travel Insurance Together

The recommended approach is to hold both. The GHIC reduces the cost of any medical claim on your insurance by covering what it can, which keeps your premium lower and avoids excess on covered items. Travel insurance covers everything the GHIC does not: repatriation, private treatment, cancellation, luggage, missed flights, and travel in countries outside the GHIC's scope.

If you are only taking one European city break a year, a single-trip policy is fine. If you travel more regularly, annual multi-trip insurance is almost always better value.

Apply for the GHIC now if you do not have one. It costs nothing and takes five minutes.