Skip to main content

Is the EHIC or GHIC card still valid in France and Spain?

Is the EHIC or GHIC card still valid in France and Spain?

Find A Professional

More Items From Ergsy search


Understanding the EHIC and GHIC

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) are essential tools for UK citizens traveling to Europe. Both cards allow holders to access state-provided healthcare in European countries at a reduced cost or, in many cases, free of charge. The EHIC was introduced to simplify the process of accessing necessary healthcare when traveling within the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. Following Brexit, the UK government introduced the GHIC to ensure continued access to healthcare across European destinations.

Current Validity of EHIC in France and Spain

If you hold a valid EHIC card issued before the end of the Brexit transition period, you can continue using it in both France and Spain, as well as other EU countries, until its expiration date. The EHIC remains a valid document for accessing healthcare services, covering treatments deemed necessary during your stay, such as accidents or urgent medical conditions. It's important to verify the expiration date on your card and apply for a GHIC when it nears expiry to ensure uninterrupted coverage when traveling.

GHIC: Post-Brexit Healthcare Solution

The UK government introduced the GHIC as a successor to the EHIC after Brexit. The GHIC serves the same purpose as its predecessor, allowing UK residents to access necessary state healthcare while visiting EU countries, including France and Spain. The GHIC, unlike the EHIC, does not cover travel to EEA countries like Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland. Therefore, UK travelers should consider additional insurance options if visiting these nations.

How to Apply for a GHIC

Applying for a GHIC is straightforward and free of charge. UK residents can apply through the official NHS website, which provides guidance and support throughout the application process. You'll need to provide personal details and National Insurance or NHS number. It’s recommended to apply for a GHIC well in advance of any planned travel to accommodate processing times and ensure you receive the card before your trip.

Additional Considerations

While the EHIC and GHIC provide an essential safety net for accessing healthcare abroad, they are not substitutes for comprehensive travel insurance. They do not cover all costs, such as private healthcare or mountain rescue in ski resorts, and they do not replace lost or stolen items insurance. Travelers are encouraged to consider comprehensive travel insurance policies to cover potential gaps and to ensure a safe, stress-free experience while abroad.

Understanding the EHIC and GHIC

The EHIC and GHIC are cards that help people from the UK get healthcare when traveling in Europe. They let you see a doctor for less money or sometimes for free. The EHIC was made to help people get care when visiting places like France or Spain. After the UK left the EU, called Brexit, the GHIC was made to keep helping people get care in Europe.

Using the EHIC in France and Spain

If you have an EHIC card that is still good, you can use it in France and Spain. It lets you get the care you need if you are hurt or sick. Check the date on your card to see when it runs out. When it’s nearly out, you should get a GHIC to keep getting help when you travel.

GHIC: After Brexit Healthcare Card

The UK made the GHIC card after leaving the EU. It works like the EHIC for getting care in places like France and Spain. The GHIC does not work in places like Norway or Switzerland. If you go there, you might need extra insurance to cover you.

How to Get a GHIC

Getting a GHIC is easy and free. You can apply on the NHS website. You will need to give them your name and some other details. It’s smart to apply before you travel, so you have the card when you leave.

Important Things to Know

The EHIC and GHIC help with healthcare but do not cover everything. They don't pay for private doctors or help if your things are lost or stolen. It's a good idea to get travel insurance in case something happens, so you have a safe and happy trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the EHIC card?

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows EU residents to receive medical treatment in another member state at a reduced cost or sometimes for free.

What is the GHIC card?

The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is the UK’s replacement for the EHIC after Brexit. It provides similar coverage for UK residents in the EU.

Is the EHIC still valid in France?

Yes, if you have a valid EHIC, you can use it in France until it expires.

Is the EHIC still valid in Spain?

Yes, if you have a valid EHIC, you can use it in Spain until it expires.

Can I use the GHIC in France?

Yes, the GHIC provides health coverage in France similar to the EHIC for UK residents.

Can I use the GHIC in Spain?

Yes, the GHIC is valid in Spain and offers similar benefits to the EHIC for UK residents.

What should I do if my EHIC is expired?

If your EHIC is expired and you are a UK resident, you should apply for a GHIC.

How do I apply for a GHIC card?

You can apply for a GHIC card through the official NHS website.

Can I still use an EHIC card issued by an EU country?

Yes, if you are a resident of an EU country and possess an EHIC, it remains valid in France and Spain until its expiration date.

What benefits does the GHIC provide?

The GHIC offers access to medically necessary state-provided healthcare in EU countries at reduced costs or sometimes for free, similar to the EHIC.

Are there any differences in coverage between the EHIC and GHIC?

The GHIC covers the same types of healthcare as the EHIC, ensuring that you have access to necessary medical treatment during a temporary stay in EU countries.

Are travelers to France still required to have an EHIC or GHIC?

While it is not mandatory, having an EHIC or GHIC is strongly recommended to ensure access to healthcare at lower costs.

Do I need a GHIC to travel to Spain post-Brexit?

While it's not mandatory, having a GHIC provides peace of mind for accessing healthcare at a reduced cost during your stay in Spain.

Will a GHIC cover all medical treatments in Spain?

A GHIC covers medically necessary healthcare in state facilities but does not cover private healthcare or repatriation costs.

Is the coverage from the EHIC or GHIC card the same in all EU countries?

Yes, the EHIC and GHIC provide consistent coverage across EU member states, including France and Spain, for necessary treatments.

How long does it take to receive a GHIC card?

It usually takes about 10 to 15 working days to receive your GHIC card after applying.

Can I use my GHIC for pre-existing medical conditions?

Yes, the GHIC covers treatment for pre-existing medical conditions as well as routine maternity care.

Is additional travel insurance necessary with an EHIC or GHIC?

Yes, it is still recommended to have travel insurance as EHIC and GHIC do not cover all medical expenses or non-medical emergencies.

Can non-UK residents use a GHIC?

No, the GHIC is specifically for UK residents. Residents of other countries should have their own national health insurance arrangements.

What should I do if I lose my EHIC or GHIC in France or Spain?

If you lose your card, you can apply for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) to ensure continued healthcare coverage.

What is the EHIC card?

The EHIC card helps you get medical care in Europe. It stands for European Health Insurance Card. You can use it if you get sick or hurt when you are in another European country.

If you have an EHIC card, you can get health care at a lower cost or sometimes for free. But remember, it won't cover everything. It is good to have travel insurance too.

You can ask a family member or friend to help you fill out the form to get an EHIC card. They can also read about the card for you if you find it hard to understand.

The European Health Insurance Card, or EHIC, helps people from the EU get healthcare in other EU countries. Sometimes this care costs less money or is even free.

What is the GHIC card?

Do you know what the GHIC card is? It's a card that helps you if you get sick when you are on holiday. If you have this card, you can see a doctor or go to a hospital for less money or for free. You can use it in countries in Europe.

If you need help reading, you can ask someone to read it with you. You can also try reading one sentence at a time or use a reading app to listen to the text.

The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is a new card for people in the UK. It came after Brexit to take the place of the EHIC card. It helps people from the UK if they need healthcare when they are in countries in Europe.

Can I still use my EHIC card in France?

You can still use your EHIC card in France. Your card helps you get healthcare if you need it. It is important to take your card when you travel.

Using pictures and simple maps can help you understand more. Ask someone you trust if you need help.

Yes, if you have a card called an EHIC, you can use it in France. Make sure the card is not yet expired.

Can I still use the EHIC card in Spain?

Yes, you can still use your EHIC card in Spain. It helps you get health care if you are on holiday.

Helpful tip: Always take your EHIC card with you when you travel. You can also use tools like a travel checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything important.

Yes, you can use your EHIC card in Spain if it has not run out.

Can I use the GHIC in France?

The GHIC card helps you get medical care in Europe. Yes, you can use it in France. If you need to see a doctor or go to the hospital while in France, show your GHIC card.

Helpful Tips:

  • Carry your GHIC card with you.
  • Ask someone to help if you do not understand something.
  • Use pictures or apps to learn new words in French.

Yes, the GHIC card helps you get healthcare in France. It is like the EHIC card for people from the UK.

Can I use the GHIC card in Spain?

Yes, the GHIC card works in Spain. It gives UK people the same help as the old EHIC card.

What do I do if my EHIC card is old?

Your EHIC card helps you get health care when you travel in Europe. If your card is old or not working anymore, you need to get a new one.

Here is what you can do:

  • Check the date on your card. Is it out of date? Then you need a new one.
  • Go online to the official website to ask for a new card.
  • If you need help, ask a family member or friend you trust to help you.
  • Call a helpline if you have questions. They are there to help you.

Remember, it’s important to have a new card before you travel!

If your EHIC has run out and you live in the UK, you need to get a GHIC card.

How can I get a GHIC card?

You can get a GHIC card by following these steps:

1. Go to the website here.

2. Fill in your information. You might need help from an adult.

3. If you have any questions, ask someone you trust to help you.

4. Once you finish applying, wait for your card to come in the mail.

You can get a GHIC card from the NHS website.

Can I use my EHIC card from the EU?

Yes, you can use your EHIC card if it is still valid. The card helps you get healthcare in EU countries.

If you have trouble understanding what this means, you can ask someone you trust to help you. They can explain more about how the card works.

Yes, if you live in an EU country and have an EHIC card, you can use it in France and Spain until it expires.

What help does the GHIC card give you?

The GHIC card helps you pay less if you need a doctor or treatment when you are on holiday in some countries.

Here are some tools and tips to help:

  • Ask someone you trust to explain things you don't understand.
  • Use a magnifying tool if the text seems too small.
  • Take breaks if reading feels tiring.
  • Look at pictures that help explain the words.

The GHIC card helps you get healthcare when you travel to EU countries. This care might cost less or be free. It's like the EHIC card.

What is different between the EHIC and GHIC cards?

The GHIC card helps you get the same healthcare as the EHIC card. It makes sure you can see a doctor if you need to while you are visiting EU countries for a short time.

Do people going to France still need an EHIC or GHIC card?

If you are going to France, you need a special health card. This card is for medical help in case you get sick or hurt. The card can be an EHIC card or a GHIC card.

A helpful tool: You can ask someone to help you check if your card is still good.

Remember: Take your card with you when you travel.

Having an EHIC or GHIC card is a good idea. It helps you get medical care for less money.

Do I need a health card to go to Spain after Brexit?

If you go to Spain, will you need a health card? This is a card that helps you get healthcare. After Brexit, the rules might have changed. Make sure to check the new rules. Some helpful things you can do are:

  • Ask a grown-up to help you look up the rules online.
  • Call someone who works with travel to ask.
  • Use a computer or app that reads words out loud.

You don't have to get a GHIC, but it can help you feel safe. It makes going to the doctor in Spain cheaper.

Does a GHIC cover all doctor visits and treatments in Spain?

A GHIC is a card that helps you get medical care if you need it while you're in another country.

You can use it at hospitals and clinics run by the government. You can't use it for private doctors or if you need to be flown home.

Does the EHIC or GHIC card work the same in all EU countries?

The EHIC or GHIC card helps you get healthcare when you are in Europe. But, it might not work the same in every country.

Ask for help if you are not sure. You can also use a phone or computer to read more online.

Yes, the EHIC and GHIC cards help you get medical care in all EU countries, including France and Spain. They cover treatments you need right away.

How long until I get a GHIC card?

After you apply, it usually takes 10 to 15 working days to get your GHIC card.

Can I use my GHIC for health problems I already have?

Your GHIC card helps you get healthcare when you travel in Europe. You can use it if you get sick or have an accident.

You can also use your GHIC card if you need care for health problems you already have. This means if you saw a doctor for something before, you can still get help with it in another country.

If you have trouble understanding this, ask someone to help you. Or use tools like pictures or videos to learn more. They can make it easier to understand.

Yes, the GHIC helps pay for doctor visits and care if you are already sick. It also helps with care for moms who are having a baby.

Do I need more travel insurance if I have an EHIC or GHIC card?

When you travel to another country, it's good to have an EHIC or GHIC card. This card helps you get healthcare if you are sick or hurt.

But the card does not cover everything. It might not pay for other problems, like lost bags or if your trip is canceled. So, getting extra travel insurance can be a good idea.

If you find reading hard, you can ask someone you trust for help. They can help you understand what travel insurance is and if you need it.

Yes, it's a good idea to get travel insurance. EHIC and GHIC don't pay for everything if you get sick or have other problems when traveling.

Can people who don't live in the UK use a GHIC card?

No, the GHIC card is only for people who live in the UK. People from other countries need to have their own health insurance from their home country.

What to Do if You Lose Your EHIC or GHIC in France or Spain

If you lose your EHIC or GHIC card in France or Spain, don't worry. Here's what you can do:

  1. Stay calm. Losing things can happen to anyone.
  2. Ask someone you trust to help you. A friend or family member can be supportive.
  3. Contact the NHS Overseas Healthcare Services. They can help you get a replacement or tell you what to do.
  4. Use the internet to find the right phone number or email to contact them.

If you need medical help before you get a new card, tell the doctor or nurse that you lost your EHIC or GHIC card. They might help you without the card.

Having someone with you when you talk to them can make you feel better and help understand things.

If you lose your card, you can ask for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC). This will help you keep getting healthcare.

Useful Links

Useful Links : Is the EHIC or GHIC card still valid in France and Spain?
Healthcare for UK nationals visiting the EU

NHS guidance on using your GHIC or EHIC in EU countries, including France and Spain.
Guide to the GHIC and EHIC

NHS information on healthcare access with GHIC and EHIC when travelling in the EU.
GHIC and EHIC explained

Detailed explanation on the differences between GHIC and EHIC by NHS.
Health insurance abroad (GHIC and EHIC)

NHS page on how to apply for or renew a GHIC or EHIC for health coverage in Europe.
Travel health information for France

NHS Fit for Travel provides health advice for UK nationals visiting France.
Travel health information for Spain

NHS Fit for Travel offers health information for UK nationals going to Spain.
Understanding your GHIC/EHIC card

NHS clarification on where and how your health card works in European countries.
UK nationals - Accessing healthcare in Europe

Information from the NHS on healthcare access for UK nationals in European countries, such as France and Spain.
We would love to hear from you!

Have you found an error, or do you have a link or some information you would like to share? Please let us know using the form below.

We will only use this to contact you regarding your suggestion. We will NEVER pass this information on to anyone else.
Tell us why you are contacting us.
Important Information On Using This Service
  • Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
  • Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
  • To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
  • Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
  • You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
  • Go to the video you'd like to watch.
  • If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
  • To turn on Captions, click settings .
  • To turn off Captions, click settings again.

More Items From Ergsy search

Contact Us

Ergsy Ltd.

11 Laura Pl
Bathwick
Bath
BA2 4BL

liz@ergsy.com

Reg. in England and Wales No.09521814 

 

Not For Profit

Ergsy is registered in England and Wales No. 08921467 as a not for profit social enterprise. 

Our goal is to improve the standard of social and medical literacy in the United Kingdom.

Legal Information

 

Webform

Ergsy Ltd 2022 | Ergsy is registered in England and Wales No. 08921467 as a not for profit social enterprise. Registered Address: 11 Laura Pl, Bathwick, Bath BA2 4BL, United Kingdom

© Copyright ERGSY 2023 - All Rights Reserved