There are 2 types of cards available for healthcare cover when you’re travelling abroad. You can apply for either:
These both provide the same cover, but the countries they are valid in can change.
If you need temporary cover for emergency treatment abroad and do not have one of these cards, you can apply for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC). A PRC gives you the same cover as a UK GHIC or UK EHIC would entitle you to, but you cannot apply for this in advance.
The following French Overseas Territories also accept UK GHICs and UK EHICs:
For more information on what is covered in the country you're visiting, check the guidance on the GOV.UK website.
A UK EHIC or UK GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. It may not cover all health costs and never covers repatriation costs. Make sure you have travel insurance as well as a UK EHIC or UK GHIC.
The EU countries are:
You can only use your card in Switzerland if you're a:
You may be asked for proof of your nationality or your status when using your card in Switzerland.
If you’re a student studying in the EU or Switzerland:
If you’re a student studying in Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Norway:
If you’re a national of a European Economic Area (EEA) country and lived in the UK before 31 December 2020, a UK EHIC will cover necessary state-funded healthcare in all EEA countries.