Is your card still valid for your trip — and what does it actually cover?
Which card do you currently hold?
A GHIC or EHIC is not travel insurance. It never covers repatriation, private treatment or mountain rescue. Always travel with a separate travel insurance policy as well.
What it covers
Emergency treatment and visits to A&E
Treatment for a pre-existing or long-term condition (e.g. asthma, diabetes)
Routine maternity care (but not giving birth abroad by choice)
Pre-arranged treatment such as dialysis or chemotherapy, if you book it with the local provider before you travel
What it does not cover
Being flown back to the UK (medical repatriation)
Treatment in a private hospital or clinic
Ski or mountain rescue
Planned treatment, including going abroad specifically to give birth
Lost, stolen or delayed baggage, cancellation and other non-medical costs
Apply for a free UK GHIC
A GHIC is free and lasts around 5 years. Apply or renew through the official NHS service — it is the only place that will never charge you an application fee.
Watch out for copycat sites. Unofficial websites charge a fee to apply on your behalf for a card that is always free. Only apply through nhs.uk / nhsbsa.nhs.uk.
Rules verified July 2026 against nhs.uk. General guidance only — always check your eligibility on the official NHS service before you travel.