How long do e111 cards last

The EHIC is personal, made out in the holder's name and free of charge. Cards issued by France are valid for 2 years the card's length of validity varies by issuing State. If the card cannot be issued prior to your departure late application you will be issued a provisional replacement certificate.

It is valid for three months. The EHIC guarantees direct access to the public health system in the country you are visiting, with no need for prior application to the local health authority.

When you show your EHIC, you will receive the same health services as if you were insured in the country you are visiting. If they're a national of any other country, they can be added if they have settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme EUSS. If they do not have settled or pre-settled status, they can be added if their relationship with you began before 1 January Depending on the country you visit you may be expected to pay all or part of your bill upfront and then claim a refund afterwards.

Some countries ask patients to pay a contribution towards the cost of their care, such as for prescription costs. This is known as a co-payment or patient share. You can claim back the difference between the total bill and the co-payment, but the actual co-payment is not refundable. Keep all receipts and any paperwork. You or your insurance company may need them if you're applying for a refund.

Explain that the card entitles the holder to necessary healthcare. They can give you advice on what to do. It's important that you keep documents relating to your treatment.

This could include:. They'll look at your claim to decide whether you were charged when you should have been covered. This may not include the full cost of treatment. Page last reviewed: 29 June Next review due: 29 June Home Services Healthcare abroad Back to Healthcare abroad. There are 2 types of cover available.

How to use your card You can use your card to access medically necessary state-provided healthcare when you're visiting an EU country or Switzerland. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You can use a UK passport to get medically necessary healthcare in Norway for example emergency treatment, or to treat a pre-existing condition. Some websites charge to help you apply - these are unnecessary and you do not need to use them. Check what you need to do. To help us improve GOV. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Cookies on GOV.