What Is An EHIC Card?
An EHIC card, also known as e111 card, is something that every citizen of the EU should take advantage of. If you’re wondering why then you might not know that EHIC is a European health insurance card that provides you with free or discounted medical treatment wherever you are in the EU. Intrigued yet? Well, keep reading and discover more great benefits of having an EHIC card and how to apply for one. One main important detail to remember before applying, however, is that the EHIC card is only valid for 5 years, so it is crucial you check the date that the card is due to expire, especially before making holiday plans to travel. You will soon discover that obtaining the card and keeping a few important things, like the 5-year expiration date, in mind is simple, and that an EHIC card is definitely worth it.
Applying For An EHIC Card
Applying for and EHIC card is simple, just fill out an application form on the EHIC website, or call the National Health Service (NHS) on 0300-330-1350. And done, you have the card. Again, however, keep in mind that it is only valid for 5 years, and once those 5 years are up you will have to re-apply to obtain a new EHIC card. Another important detail you should keep in mind also, each card only covers one person, and so if you have a child under 16, include them while filling out the application and you will both receive a card. Finally, the card covers a lot. Say you’re on a trip and you become ill or have an injury, the card entitles you to the exact and necessary medical treatment related to the ailment or injury. You can also receive treatment for chronic or pre-existing medical conditions anywhere in the EU with the card as well. So, this is definitely one more very important detail to remember, especially if you plan to do some traveling, always take your EHIC card with you! While traveling, you must also remember to take travel insurance too, as your EHIC card does not replace it.
Additional Information About An EHIC Card
The information you will need to provide when applying for an EHIC card is as follows:
- your full name
- address
- date of birth
- National insurance or NHS number (England and Whales)
- CHI number (Scotland)
- Health and care number (Northern Ireland)
Here is a specific and detailed list of countries your EHIC card is valid in:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus (southern), Czech Republic, Denmark (including the Faroe Islands and Greenland), England, Estonia, Finland, France (including Martinique and Guadeloupe), Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Republic of Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal (including Madeira), Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain (including the Balearic and Canary Islands), Sweden, Switzerland and Whales.