UK travelers planning trips to Europe or other destinations with health insurance agreements are being reminded to verify the validity of their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or apply for the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to avoid unexpected medical costs abroad.
Following Brexit in 2020, the EHIC was replaced by the GHIC. However, existing EHICs remain valid until their expiry date, allowing UK residents to access emergency and medically necessary healthcare in EU countries and select others, such as Australia. With many EHICs set to expire in 2025, travel insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk predict a surge in GHIC applications this year.
What Are the EHIC and GHIC, and Why Are They Important
The EHIC and GHIC provide UK residents access to state-funded healthcare during trips to EU countries. This ensures emergency and essential medical treatments are covered under the same conditions as local citizens.
Without a valid EHIC or GHIC, UK tourists could face hefty medical bills for emergency treatment abroad.
For example:
- A broken leg in Spain could cost over £25,000.
- Surgery and medical evacuation from Greece could exceed £80,000.
How to Renew Your EHIC or Apply for a GHIC
UK residents can apply for a GHIC up to nine months before their current EHIC expires. Applications are free through the NHS website, though unofficial sites may charge fees.
Travel experts recommend applying well in advance, as processing typically takes 15 working days. Physical cards are required when traveling, so planning ahead is crucial, especially during busy holiday seasons.
Travel Insurance: A Necessary Addition
While the EHIC and GHIC provide essential healthcare coverage, they do not cover all potential costs.
For instance:
- They do not cover private healthcare or repatriation costs.
- They may not include personal contributions toward treatment.
- They do not provide special assistance for extended stays due to accidents or illnesses.
To ensure full protection, travelers should also purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Some insurers may waive medical excess fees if the EHIC or GHIC is used, but travelers should carefully review their policy terms.
Key Travel Insurance Tips
Disclose Pre-Existing Conditions: Inform your insurer about any pre-existing medical conditions to avoid voiding your policy.
Understand Your Policy: Ensure your insurance covers the specific needs of your trip, including planned activities.
Consider Additional Coverage: Look for policies that include repatriation costs and personal treatment contributions.
Post-Brexit Travel Changes
Since Brexit, access to healthcare in the EU has become more reliant on having a valid EHIC or GHIC. Without one, UK travelers may face significant out-of-pocket expenses, even with travel insurance.
Additional reminders for UK travelers:
- Travel insurance does not replace the EHIC or GHIC.
- Healthcare coverage varies by country, so understand the benefits available at your destination.
- Non-EU countries like Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein are no longer covered under EHIC or GHIC agreements.
Why 2025 Is a Critical Year for UK Travelers
EHICs are valid for five years, meaning many issued before Brexit will expire in 2025. This could lead to a bottleneck in GHIC applications. Travelers who fail to renew their cards or apply for a GHIC in time risk being unprotected during emergencies abroad.
Delays are also more likely during peak holiday periods, particularly in spring and summer. Experts urge travelers to act early to avoid last-minute complications.
By ensuring their EHIC or GHIC is valid and pairing it with comprehensive travel insurance, UK travelers can enjoy peace of mind and full protection during their trips.
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