If you’re travelling in Europe, there’s one free card that’s well worth having in your wallet: a GHIC.
It won’t replace travel insurance, but it can save you money, hassle and stress if you need medical care while you’re away.
What are GHIC cards?
The EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) and GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) give UK travellers access to state-run healthcare abroad on the same terms as local residents.
That usually means free treatment — but in some countries, locals pay a fee, and you’ll pay the same.
Important reminder: these cards are not travel insurance. They only cover certain medical treatment.
EHIC vs GHIC – what’s the difference?
You may hear people refer to EHIC cards as opposed to GHIC cards. The EHIC was issued before Brexit. For most UK residents, the GHIC has replaced the EHIC, although people still commonly refer to them interchangeably.
Still have an EHIC? Check the expiry date
EHICs remain valid until they expire — and millions are expiring around now. The expiry date is printed on the card, so it’s worth checking before you travel. Once it runs out, you’ll need to apply for a GHIC.
What does a GHIC cover?
These cards cover medically necessary treatment that can’t reasonably wait until you return to the UK. This includes emergency treatment, GP visits for urgent issues, ongoing care for pre-existing conditions and routine maternity care (as long as you’re not travelling to give birth).
The rule is simple: if a local resident gets the treatment free, so do you. If they pay, you pay the same rate.
What isn’t covered?
A GHIC won’t cover private healthcare, mountain or ski rescue, or being flown back to the UK. It also won’t help with cancellations, delays, lost baggage or theft.
You still need travel insurance
Even with a GHIC, travel insurance is essential.
In some countries, state healthcare still comes with charges. In an emergency, you may also be taken to a private hospital where your GHIC won’t be accepted. Travel insurance covers those gaps, plus things like repatriation, cancellations and lost luggage.
In fact, some insurers expect you to have a GHIC or EHIC and may reduce your excess if you use one.
Where can you use a GHIC?
A UK GHIC can be used across EU countries, as well as Switzerland (for UK, EU and Swiss nationals and certain other groups). It can also act as proof of UK residency in places like Montenegro, Australia, Jersey, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, St Helena, Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha.
Rules can vary slightly by country, so it’s always worth checking before you travel.
Is treatment always free?
Not always. Some healthcare systems charge residents for GP appointments, hospital stays or prescriptions, and you’ll be charged in the same way.
Always show your GHIC or EHIC before treatment, confirm you’re being treated under the public healthcare system, and keep any receipts.
How to apply for a GHIC (for free)
Applying for a GHIC is completely free and should only be done via the official NHS website. Be wary of copycat sites that charge £20 or more — they’re unnecessary and unofficial.
You must be 16 or over to apply, and each traveller needs their own card (children get separate cards when added as dependants). Once approved, cards usually arrive within about 15 working days, so don’t leave it until the last minute.
Lost your card while travelling?
If you forget your card, lose it, or it hasn’t arrived yet, you can apply for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC). This gives you the same medical cover as a GHIC until you return home.
Who can get a UK GHIC?
Most people qualify if they’re legally and ordinarily resident in the UK and don’t already have healthcare cover from another EU or EEA country. Some people living in Europe, or dependants of eligible individuals, may also qualify under specific arrangements.
The key takeaway
A GHIC is free, easy to get and genuinely useful — but it’s not a substitute for travel insurance.
Think of it as a safety net for public healthcare, backed up by proper insurance for everything else.
Holiday Nerd 