Do EU medical cards still work?
Abigail Rogers
Updated on February 27, 2026
As part of the deal announced on 24 December 2020, the UK and the EU agreed that the cards can still be used until their expiry dates. After that, the government will issue a new Global Heath Insurance Card (GHIC) which will replace the EHIC for the majority of UK citizens.
Do I need travel insurance if I have a European Health Card?
If I have an EHIC, do I need travel insurance? Yes, you need both. Travel insurance will cover other medical related costs that the EHIC will not, such as: 1) Cost of special assistance to get home, for example a medical escort, extra seats, stretcher or air ambulance.
What happens if you dont have an EHIC card?
If you don’t have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), or you can’t use it (for instance, for private health care), you can’t be refused treatment, but you might have to pay for your treatment upfront and claim reimbursement once you get home.
Is EHIC valid after Brexit?
Is my EHIC still valid after Brexit? Yes, you can still use a UK-issued EHIC after Brexit. So if you already have an EHIC and you’re going on a temporary visit to an EU country – perhaps for a holiday, to study or for work – you can use it to access state healthcare until it expires.
Does EHIC cover ambulance?
Ambulance. In an emergency, transport by ambulance to a hospital is covered by the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Will EHIC work after Brexit?
Do EU nationals get free NHS?
You may be entitled to NHS healthcare paid for by an EU country, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, if you were living lawfully in the UK on or before 31 December 2020, and hold an S1 certificate, for example because you receive either a state pension or certain ‘exportable’ benefits from that country, or …
What is the European health insurance card?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) lets you get healthcare in another EU or European Economic Area (EEA) state for free, or at a reduced cost.
Can I use my E111 card in Europe?
This entitles card holders to free or reduced cost healthcare throughout Europe. You will need to renew your E111 card in place for a valid up-to-date EHIC but please make sure you check which EHIC rules apply in the European Countries you plan to visit.
What is the global health insurance card?
The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is a new health insurance card designed to replace the old European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) after brexit.
What services can I get with an EU health card?
Following, find the services you can get with an EU health card, and costs you may have to pay for them: Doctors. Depending on the country where you are, you may consult with a doctor free of charge, or for a low fee.