What is a Ghic and does it work in France?
This free card is the UK's replacement for the Ehic
The Ghic is the UK’s replacement for the Ehic
Department of Health & Social Care
Since Brexit, UK citizens have had to adjust to new travel and healthcare arrangements within the EU.
One of the key changes is the introduction of the Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic), which replaced the European Health Insurance Card (Ehic) for UK nationals.
This card allows UK visitors to access essential healthcare while temporarily staying in France.
Here is what you need to know about how the Ghic works in France.
What is the Ghic?
The Ghic is the UK’s replacement for the Ehic, and it offers the same essential healthcare coverage during temporary visits to EU countries, including France.
The card is free and can be obtained online through the NHS website.
It covers necessary healthcare services, meaning that UK visitors can receive treatment for illness or injury while travelling.
Does the Ghic work in France?
Yes, the Ghic is valid for healthcare in France for UK visitors on short stays, including those visiting second homes or for tourism.
It guarantees access to medically necessary services under the French state healthcare system, just as French citizens would receive.
However, it is important to note that the Ghic does not cover everything. For instance, it does not cover private healthcare, mountain rescue, or repatriation in case of serious illness or death.
Therefore, it is recommended to purchase additional travel health insurance for unforeseen circumstances.
Ghic coverage for short stays in France
UK visitors to France who stay for 90 days or less within a 180-day period can use the Ghic for medical coverage.
This applies to tourists, second-home owners, and people on business trips.
The Ghic provides the same coverage as the Ehic, allowing you to receive necessary medical treatment, including for pre-existing conditions such as dialysis.
Although the Ghic will cover healthcare costs at the French state level, you may still incur out-of-pocket expenses if the treatment exceeds the usual reimbursement rates of the French healthcare system.
Ghic for long stays in France
For UK nationals staying in France for longer than 90 days, a temporary long-stay visa may be required, depending on the nature of your stay.
Visitors on this type of visa can still use their Ghic card for healthcare coverage during their time in France.
If you are a UK pensioner or claim certain UK disability benefits, you may qualify for an S1 form, which ensures healthcare coverage under the UK system while living in France.
This entitles you to use the Ehic for travel within the EU and provides further healthcare support.
What is covered by the Ghic in France?
The Ghic covers medically necessary care during your visit to France. This includes:
Emergency medical treatment
Treatment for chronic conditions (such as dialysis)
Hospital stays for necessary medical procedures
However, it does not cover:
Do you need additional travel insurance?
While the Ghic offers substantial coverage for medical emergencies, the UK government strongly advises travellers to take out comprehensive travel insurance.
This insurance should cover medical emergencies that may fall outside the scope of the Ghic, such as repatriation, private treatment, and other unexpected medical costs.
Key points to remember about the Ghic
The Ghic is an important resource for UK citizens visiting France, ensuring access to necessary healthcare during short-term stays.
While it covers basic medical needs, additional travel insurance is recommended to cover gaps like mountain rescue or repatriation.
Be sure to check if any additional insurance is needed, especially if you are planning a long stay or travelling with pre-existing conditions.
For more information on obtaining a Ghic card or travel insurance, visit the official NHS website.
