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Introduction

You may find it difficult and expensive to get health treatment in some countries but an EHIC will help cover the cost of state-provided treatment that becomes necessary when visiting countries in the European Economic Area. There are also things you can do before you go abroad to protect you and your family's health.

• Healthcare abroad - information from NHS Choices Opens new window

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

Your EHIC is valid throughout the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland (the EEA consists of the European Union plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway).

The card enables you to access reduced cost, sometimes free, state-provided healthcare that becomes necessary during your trip because of either illness or an accident. It also covers you for pre-existing conditions. You can find full details of cover and who is eligible on the NHS Choices website.

• Apply for or renew an EHIC
• Healthcare abroad - information from NHS Choices Opens new window

How do I get an EHIC?

The quickest way is to apply online. Your card will normally arrive within seven days. You can also apply by phone on 0845 606 2030 or by post using an application form available from the post office.

You can apply just for yourself or on behalf of your partner and any of your children who are under 18 and in full-time education. If you are under 16 your parent or guardian will have to apply for you. Boarding school teaching staff can also apply on behalf of any children in their care.

For each person you are applying for you will have to provide their:

• full name 
• date of birth
• National Insurance or NHS number (CHI in Scotland or Health and Care number in Northern Ireland)

Most people can apply online or by phone, but you will need to apply by post if you:

• are not a national of the UK, EEA or Switzerland
• are studying abroad
• are already working abroad but are UK employed or self-employed

• More information from NHS Choices for people studying abroad Opens new window
• More information from NHS Choices for pepole working abroad Opens new window

How and when should I renew my EHIC?

EHICs are valid for five years. However, cards were initially issued with three-year expiry dates, and these will expire this year.

You should apply for a new one before the expiry date - you can apply up to six months before your old card expires. The easiest way to apply is online or by phone on 0845 606 2030.

You can also apply by post using a form from your local post office. But please note that postal applications take longer.

• Apply for or renew an EHIC Opens new window

How do I replace a lost or stolen EHIC?

If you need to replace a lost or stolen EHIC call 0845 606 2030

If the EHIC is lost or stolen while you are abroad, you can apply for a Provisional Replacemenr Certificate (PRC), which will give you the same cover as an EHIC while you are abroad. To get a PRC call (+0044) 191 218 1999 (lines are open Monday to Friday 8.00 am to 5.00 pm). We recommend you store this number and take it with you when you travel abroad.

To get a PRC you will need to supply the following information:

• name
• address
• date of birth
• and National Insurance or NHS number (CHI number in Scotland or Health and Care number in Northern Ireland)

Protecting your health when you travel

• More information on travel insurance
• NHS Choices - health advice for travellers Opens new window