Now that Britain has left the European Union, the European Health Insurance Card is gradually being replaced by the Global Health Insurance Card
We all probably have one – hidden in a wallet or purse or even in that extra drawer in the kitchen filled with everything.
The EHIC – the European Health Insurance Card and its predecessor E111 – allowed UK travelers to obtain limited cover for health issues when visiting EU countries and some other countries such as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein.
The EHIC card is a useful and freebie when traveling abroad, but it was never intended to be a substitute for travel insurance, the Mirror reports.
What the card covers you for varies from country to country and some states usually allow free or reduced health care.
Many holidaymakers inadvertently ended up at a private hospital and failed after being hit with the bill. However, it was worth traveling with the card in hand.
Now that we have left the EU, the EHIC card will eventually cease to exist. Check the expiry date on the card – your card will remain valid till that date.
The good news is that a replacement will be coming, the GHIC card. The GHIC – Global Health Insurance Card – has just been announced by the government and – warning alert – it is so new that the details are still not being clarified.
The new rules are a little complicated so it’s easier said than done, don’t assume that your old EHIC or new GHIC will cover you in every country, so check the government website before traveling.
What’s confusing is that if you apply now, you go through the old process. Here’s how to apply.
Now, if you’re thinking you can put in a secret application and get an extended EHIC card, I’m afraid the system will figure it out and make you apply for a replacement card. You need your National Insurance number to apply.
a word of warning. Our colleagues at MoneySavingExpert have highlighted that there are a number of fake websites out there that look official but are charging a fee to help you with the application process.
It is legal, but unethical. Therefore visit only the official government website. The card and processing is free, so if someone asks for cash you know it’s not legitimate.
Oh, and one other thing. As is the case with all types of official documents (I’m thinking specifically of driving licenses and passports), there are currently delays in issuing these cards. So get your application today.
Should I still buy travel insurance?
Even if the EHIC/GHIC card is covered in the country you are visiting, it is not a substitute for travel insurance, which is even more essential if you are traveling abroad.
It’s been a chaotic year for travel cover, with new policies stopping altogether at one point.
However, the good news is that you can still get policies and many of them will cover you for Covid – but only if you’re diagnosed (just not showing symptoms).
Travel insurance documents are long and complex, but it is really important that you read the key fact documents so you know exactly what is covered for you and what the additional limits/claim requirements are.
Don’t forget to take the form with you if you travel – and keep the emergency claim number and your policy number on your phone or email so you can find it quickly if you need it.
Don’t just assume you’ll be covered for everything Covid-related even when abroad.
Check the entry requirements of the country you’re visiting and what happens if you test positive while abroad.
There is a huge amount of variation between countries – and things change quickly. So keep a close eye on the guidance to your destination.
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