How to Apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
The UK GHIC (and the older EHIC) gets you medically necessary state healthcare in EU countries at the same cost as a local resident — usually free or heavily discounted. It is free, takes 10 minutes to apply for online, and every UK resident should carry one when travelling to Europe.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UK sources(2025-Latest).
0 of 5 steps
- Before You Go 5 min
Check which card you need
UK residents apply for a GHIC. If you have a valid UK-issued EHIC, it still works until it expires. Students on placements in the EU, and some workers and family members, may need the newer UK EHIC instead — the application site routes you automatically.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare 10 min
Apply online
Apply at the official NHSNational Health Service — The UK's publicly funded healthcare system. Most services are free at the point of use; access depends on immigration status and the immigration health surcharge.Click for official info ↗ site (never a third-party site charging £20–£40 for the same free card). You need your NI numberNational Insurance number — Your UK tax and social security number. You need it to work, pay tax, and claim benefits.Click for official info ↗, name, address, and date of birth. You can apply for yourself and family members including children under 16 in one session.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay
Get the provisional card instantly
You can download a provisional GHIC immediately, which is valid for 90 days — enough if you travel soon. The plastic card arrives by post within about 10 days. The card is valid for up to 5 years.
Click to mark as done
- Wait
Use it correctly abroad
Show the GHIC at state-run (not private) healthcare facilities in the EU. It covers medically necessary treatment — emergencies, chronic conditions, routine maternity care, and oxygen or kidney dialysis. It does not cover planned treatment or being flown home.
Click to mark as done
- Follow Up
Buy travel insurance anyway
The GHIC is not travel insurance: it never covers mountain rescue, repatriation to the UK, private clinics, or lost property. The Foreign Office advice is explicit — GHIC plus insurance, never GHIC instead of insurance.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
I am an immigrant on a visa. Can I get a GHIC?
Yes, if you are "ordinarily resident" in the UK — living here lawfully and settled in intent, not just visiting. Workers and students on long visas generally qualify. Visitors and short-term visa holders do not.
Does the GHIC work outside the EU?
Not the GHIC itself, but the UK has reciprocal healthcare agreements with some non-EU countries (Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, and others) that work similarly. Check the country-by-country guidance on gov.uk before travelling.
A website charged me for my GHIC. Can I get my money back?
The card is free from the NHSNational Health Service — The UK's publicly funded healthcare system. Most services are free at the point of use; access depends on immigration status and the immigration health surcharge.Click for official info ↗ Business Services Authority. Copycat sites charge for forwarding your application. You can report them to Action Fraud, and you should still receive your card — but always use the official services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk link.
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