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A guide to the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

All you need to know now that Britain has left the EU

A guide to the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

All you need to know now that Britain has left the EU.

    Can I still use the EHIC?

    Now Britain has left the EU, you’re probably wondering if you can still use your EHIC if you’re heading off on holiday somewhere in Europe. For most of us, the answer is no. However, there are some exceptions. According to Gov.uk, this includes UK students studying in the EU and some British state pensioners who live in the EU, and their families.

    To find out if you might still be eligible for the European Health Insurance Card, and to apply, visit NHS.uk.

      What is a European Health Insurance Card?

      The European Health Insurance Card, also known as EHIC, is a free card that allows free or reduced-cost state medical care during a temporary stay in another European country.

      For those eligible, the card can be used in any EU country, including the UK, plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. The EHIC cannot be used in the Channel Islands, including Guernsey, Alderney and Sark, the Isle of Man, Monaco, San Marino, or the Vatican City.

        How EHIC works

        If you need medical help while on holiday in Europe, simply show the health card on arrival at the hospital or medical centre.

        You’re entitled to the exact same state-provided healthcare that citizens of the country you’re visiting have access to.

        Whether you’re eligible for free or reduced-cost medical care will depend on what country you’re visiting.

        What does EHIC cover?

        • Medical treatment for accidents and illnesses
        • Medical care for pre-existing conditions
        • Routine maternity care
        • Treatment for chronic conditions such as kidney dialysis

        A European Health Insurance Card only covers the named cardholder, so your family will need to have their own individual cards.

          European travel insurance

          At Sainsbury’s Money, we recommend you take out a travel insurance policy if you’re going on holiday somewhere in Europe.

          We offer single trip annual multi-trip and extended stay policies, find out more about our travel insurance.

          Sainsbury’s Travel insurance is underwritten by AWP P&C S.A. for core cover.

          Travel guides

          Whether you’re off to Europe or somewhere further afield, our travel guides are packed with helpful information.

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            Any questions? 

            Check out our most frequently asked questions about travel insurance. If you still need to talk to us, our friendly team will be happy to help.  

            Call 0345 305 2622.

            Sales and service lines are open 9am-5pm Monday to Friday. Closed weekend and Bank Holidays. Calls may be monitored or recorded. Calls are charged at local rates from landlines and mobiles.

            Helpful phone numbers.

              * Up to 20% discount applies when you tell us your Nectar card number. Discount does not apply to premiums for pre-existing medical conditions or enhanced gadget cover. You won't be eligible if you buy through a price comparison website. We reserve the right to change or cancel this offer without notice.