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What is the UK GHIC (and the UK EHIC)?
The UK GHIC is a free card for people who live in the UK. Show it at a state hospital or doctor while you're visiting certain countries and you're treated on the same footing as a local resident.
Why the name changed
Before the UK left the EU, UK residents carried a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). After Brexit the UK brought in the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) as its replacement. An older EHIC still works until the date printed on it. After that, most people apply for a GHIC instead.
A smaller group, mainly people protected by the Withdrawal Agreement, can choose a new UK EHIC. It looks and works much the same, is also free, and also lasts up to 5 years. See who can get one.
What "same basis as a resident" means
The card doesn't make treatment free everywhere. It puts you in the same position as someone who lives in that country. If locals get a service free, so do you. If locals pay a share of the bill, you pay that share too, and you can't claim it back.
Where it works
According to the NHS, a UK GHIC can be used when visiting:
- countries in the European Economic Area (EEA): the EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway (list on GOV.UK)
- Switzerland, if you're a British, Swiss or EU national, a refugee or stateless person, or a family member of one of these
- Montenegro
- Australia
- Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man
- St Helena, Tristan da Cunha and Ascension
A UK EHIC covers the EEA and Switzerland. The UK government is still negotiating with other countries, so check the latest list on the NHS site before you travel.
How much it costs
Nothing. The card is free and the official application is free. If a website asks you to pay to apply, close it and use the NHS site.
Apply free on the official NHS website →
Is it the same as travel insurance?
No. The NHS recommends carrying both. The card won't pay for a private clinic, a rescue off a mountain or a flight home. Read what it doesn't cover.