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How to apply for a UK GHIC for free
You apply on the official NHS website. It's free and takes a few minutes. Nobody else can do it faster, and no one is allowed to charge you for the card.
Apply free on the official NHS website →
Before you start, have these ready
- your full name
- your address
- your date of birth
- your National Insurance number
- your Health and Care number, if you live in Northern Ireland
If you're adding family members, have the same details for each of them.
Step by step
- Open the NHS page. Use the button above and check the address bar starts with
www.nhs.ukornhsbsa.nhs.uk. - Choose the right card. Most people want a UK GHIC. If you have Withdrawal Agreement rights, you can pick a UK EHIC instead.
- Enter your details first, then add your partner and children when asked. Each person gets their own card.
- Submit. You won't be asked to pay at any point. If a page asks for card details, you're not on the official service.
- Check your email. The NHS says it will email within 24 hours to say whether you've been approved. Check your junk folder too. Sometimes they ask for extra documents.
- Wait for the post. Once approved, the card should arrive within 15 working days.
Forgot to add someone?
If you've already sent your application and want to add a family member, contact NHS Overseas Healthcare Services. Have your reference number, name, date of birth and address ready.
Travelling before it arrives?
If you need treatment abroad before your card arrives, you can ask for a Provisional Replacement Certificate. See lost card and PRC.
Why some sites charge
Paid "application services" usually just fill in the same free form for you. The NHS advises avoiding unofficial sites that charge a fee. If you've paid one by mistake, contact your bank or card provider about it.