GHIC – An overview

GHIC has replaced EHIC

In the last week of December 2020, the UK government announced it was going to launch the GHIC (global health insurance card) as a substitute for the EHIC. While this was announced not all details were known at the time. At the same time, they also stated that the EHIC would remain valid until its expiration date, so there was no need to rush for a GHIC if anyone already had a valid EHIC. The GHIC is overall the same as the EHIC with similar guidelines. That includes the GHIC only offering access to state-run healthcare centres and not private practice.  Like those with pre-existing conditions need to clarify before they travel to any EU country if the GHIC will hold good for treatment at the public healthcare facilities there.  There also is no mention if those with GHIC cards will continue to make contributions for treatment in any EU country as is with EHIC. At present UK citizens with EHICs need to make payments for medical tests and stays at hospitals in the EU. While the GHIC covers the main medical requirements, because of its restrictions it becomes necessary to also carry travel insurance as a backup for those sections not offered coverage in any EU country.

EHIC and EU citizens

Like UK citizens that depend on their GHIC/ EHIC when are on a trip to Europe, similarly, citizens from other EU nations rely on their EHIC cover for NHS treatment in the UK. The agreement between the EU and the UK government safeguards the rights of citizens from other EU countries as well. Any individual that is from the EU and living in the UK in 2020 with a valid EHIC card can use it for treatment from the NHS.

Travel outside Europe

While the GHIC is meant for health coverage within the EU, there are plans afoot by the UK government to offer similar coverage beyond Europe as well. For this, there is a reciprocal arrangement in place with Australia and New Zealand. The drawback is this is more restricted in coverage than the EHIC as they do include only medical emergencies and not any pre-existing conditions. So, if you are planning a trip down under, getting a quality travel insurance plan is a must that will cover cancellations, thefts and other healthcare aspects as well.

Europe travel after Brexit

Brexit brought about a lot of changes with travel to and fro to the EU from the United Kingdom and vice-versa. Likewise, those intending to spend a holiday in the EU need to be acquainted with the changes. When the K was a member of the EU, a UK national could travel and stay for as long as they wanted in an EU nation. Now with the new rules, they can just stay 90 days of the 180-day limit. If they want to remain longer, they will need to apply for a visa. While for those travelling for a short holiday this should suit them fine, however, those working or studying in the EU will have to apply for a visa.  Those planning to hire a car on a trip to the EU need not have an international driving licence. As per the present guidelines any individual from the UK can live a total of 180 days in the EU but is limited to 90 days per trip. Changes in passport rules have also come into effect with some EU nations wanting UK travellers to have a minimum of 6 months of validity left on their passport from the day they arrive in the EU country.

While these guidelines remain, for the time being, UK citizens planning a visit to any EU country will do well to carry their GHIC/ EHIC card and also get quality travel insurance so that they are covered for any eventuality. There are plans for a visa waiver programme as well but this will probably be drafted and come into effect from mid-2023.