If you've travelled in Europe before, you've probably used — or at least heard of — the EHIC. The European Health Insurance Card gave UK citizens access to state-provided medical care across the EU, often at reduced cost or completely free. But since Brexit, things have changed.
The EHIC has been replaced by the GHIC — the Global Health Insurance Card. And while it's a welcome replacement, it's not the safety net many travellers assume it to be.
What Is the GHIC?
The GHIC is a free card issued by the NHS that entitles you to state-provided medical treatment in EU countries. It covers treatment that is deemed medically necessary during your stay, under the same conditions as residents of that country.
You can apply for a GHIC online through the official NHS website. It's completely free — beware of third-party sites that charge a fee for the same service.
What Does the GHIC Cover?
- Emergency medical treatment in EU countries
- Treatment for pre-existing conditions that become necessary during your trip
- Routine maternity care
- Oxygen therapy and kidney dialysis (with pre-arrangement)
What the GHIC Does Not Cover
This is where many travellers get caught out. The GHIC does not cover:
- Repatriation — If you need to be flown home, you'll pay out of pocket. Medical repatriation can cost £10,000–£50,000+.
- Private healthcare — Only state-provided treatment is covered.
- Non-EU countries — The GHIC only works in EU member states (plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland).
- Trip cancellation, lost baggage, or theft — It's a medical card, not travel insurance.
- Mountain rescue or emergency evacuation — Particularly relevant for ski holidays.
"The GHIC is a useful backup, but it's not a replacement for travel insurance. Think of it as a complement, not an alternative."
EHIC vs GHIC: What Changed?
In practical terms, the two cards work very similarly. The key differences are:
- The GHIC replaced the EHIC for UK residents after Brexit
- Existing EHICs remain valid until they expire — you don't need to switch early
- The GHIC covers EU countries only (your old EHIC also covered some non-EU EEA countries under reciprocal agreements that are now separate)
- Coverage is broadly the same: state-provided, medically necessary treatment
Do You Still Need Travel Insurance?
Yes — absolutely. The GHIC should be seen as an extra layer of protection, not your main cover. Here's why:
- Repatriation — The single biggest gap. If you're seriously ill or injured, getting home could cost tens of thousands.
- Non-EU destinations — Heading to Turkey, the US, Thailand, or the Caribbean? The GHIC won't help at all.
- Comprehensive cover — Travel insurance protects your trip, belongings, and finances, not just your health.
- Pre-existing conditions — A specialist travel insurance policy can provide far more comprehensive cover for medical conditions than the GHIC.
How to Use Your GHIC Alongside Travel Insurance
The best approach is:
- Apply for your free GHIC and carry it whenever you travel to the EU
- Take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, repatriation, cancellation, and baggage
- If you need treatment in the EU, present your GHIC first — this can reduce costs for your insurer and may even avoid excess charges
- Some insurers actively encourage GHIC use and may offer a slight discount or waive the excess if you use it
The Bottom Line
The GHIC is a valuable, free resource that every UK traveller heading to Europe should carry. But relying on it as your only protection is risky — it doesn't cover repatriation, private treatment, or any trip-related losses.
The smartest approach? Carry your GHIC and take out proper travel insurance. Together, they give you the best possible safety net while you're abroad.