Brexit has changed a lot about the UK's infrastructure such as health insurance abroad.
A European Health Insurance Card shows proof of health insurance when in an EEA country or Switzerland. The main benefit of the card is that it allows UK nationals to receive medical care in an EEA country without needing to return home.
However, since leaving the EU, and with the summer holiday period rapidly approaching, many have been questioning whether their EHIC is still valid when travelling abroad or if they need to apply for a new card. According to government advice, you do not need to apply for a new card as long as your EHIC is still in date.
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That means that if you have an EHIC that has not yet expired -according to the date on the card- it will still be accepted in an EEA country if you need medical care. However, if you're card has expired or is due to expire soon you will need to apply for a different type of card.
The government will now issue a UK Global Health Insurance Card (UK GHIC) which essentially does the same thing as an EHIC and can be picked up for free.
How to get a new card
You can apply for a new health insurance card up to six months before your current card expires. There is no deadline in place to apply for a UK GHIC or EHIC - remember, if you're EHIC is not yet expired it is still valid.
Depending on your unique circumstances when applying for a new card you will either receive the above-mentioned UK GHIC or a UK European Health Insurance Card (UK EHIC) if you have rights under the Withdrawal Agreement.
The application process is relatively simple and can be done online here. While you input the needed details on the form, the website will let you know which card you qualify for.
Before starting the form, you should make sure you have your National Insurance number (NIN) on hand as this will need to be written on the form. Depending on your circumstances, you may also be asked to input your NHS number, if you have one.
You can also use the online service if you are abroad and do not have your card with you or to arrange travel insurance.
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