When can I use my UK EHIC/GHIC card in France?
Yes, you can use your UK EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) or GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) in France, but there are some important details to know:
What Your EHIC/GHIC Covers in France
1. Medically Necessary Care:
It covers emergency or necessary healthcare that cannot wait until you return to the UK. Examples include:
• Treatment for sudden illness or injury.
• Treatment for pre-existing conditions if it becomes urgent during your trip.
• Routine maternity care, provided the birth wasn’t the reason for your visit.
2. Public Healthcare Only:
• The EHIC/GHIC is only valid in public healthcare facilities in France.
• Private healthcare is not covered, so you’ll need to pay full costs for private treatment.
3. Partial Reimbursements:
• In France, healthcare operates on a reimbursement system. You may need to pay upfront for treatment and claim reimbursement later.
• Typically, around 70% of the cost of a doctor’s visit or hospital stay is reimbursed, but you’ll have to cover the remaining 30% unless you have private travel insurance.
How to Use Your EHIC/GHIC in France
1. Present your EHIC/GHIC at the hospital or doctor’s office when receiving care.
2. Ensure you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
3. If you pay upfront, keep all receipts and ask for a Feuille de Soins (care form) to claim reimbursement from the French healthcare system.
Important Notes
1. Long-Term Stays:
EHIC/GHIC is not valid for long-term residency or planned healthcare. If you’re moving to France, you’ll need to join the French healthcare system (PUMA) or get private health insurance.
2. Travel Insurance:
EHIC/GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance, as it doesn’t cover private care, repatriation, or non-urgent treatments.
3. Valid EHIC Cards:
• If you already have a valid EHIC, you can continue using it until its expiry date.
• Once it expires, apply for a GHIC.
How to Apply for a GHIC (if needed)
You can apply for a GHIC for free on the NHS website.
