The UK government’s new Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) has launched and applications are now open online – but it covers fewer countries than the old card
The UK’s new Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) has launched, giving UK travelers access to healthcare in the EU.
The new card will replace the existing European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) – although it covers fewer countries than the EHIC previously covered – as of January 1.
Like the EHIC, you will be entitled to health care access with the GHIC when traveling to any of the 27 EU countries. However it will not include Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland.
The EHIC offered coverage for these four countries until January 1, but this eligibility no longer applies. The only exception is if you were already traveling before January 1, in which case EHIC eligibility will continue until you leave that country.
Applications for the GHIC have already opened online – you can find out more information and apply on the NHS website here.
read more, EHIC cards replaced with GHIC – what does it mean and what to do with your old cardread more, Brexit means some Britons’ passports may not be valid for holidays in 2021
The government advises Britons wishing to apply for a GHIC to “do so at least two weeks before planning travel to ensure that their card arrives on time”.
It’s worth noting that even with an EHIC or GHIC, you’ll still need to get travel insurance – the GHIC is not a replacement for it.
This is because countries have different health systems, so you may not necessarily be entitled to the things you would expect to get for free from the NHS. Travel insurance can be useful if you’re faced with an unexpected bill (always check your policy so you know exactly what’s covered for you), not to mention it also covers other factors like canceled trips or lost luggage.
While the GHIC is replacing the EHIC, if you currently have a valid EHIC that is still out of date you can continue to use it. You need to apply for a GHIC only when your EHIC expires.
Under the new agreement EU member state EHICs will continue to be accepted by the NHS.
Health Minister Edward Arger said: “Our agreement with the EU ensures our citizens’ right to access essential health care on their holidays and travel to EU countries will continue. GHIC is a key element of the UK’s future relationship with the EU and will provide certainty and protection for all UK residents.”
