GLOBAL Health Insurance Card (GHIC) the UK replacement for the EHIC When to apply for a GHIC UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHICs) are still valid and offer the same cover as GHICs in the EU. Once your EHIC has expired, you’ll be able to replace it with a GHIC. You can get a provisional replacement certicate (PRC) if you need treatment abroad and do not have a card. Most people can apply for a GHIC online, but some people need to apply by post. See the section below about who can get a GHIC. Beware of unofcial websites, which may charge if you apply through them. An EHIC or GHIC is always free of charge. If you’re applying from Northern Ireland, from March 2021 you’ll have the choice of a standard GHIC with a union ag or one with a plain background. Who can get a GHIC? Ÿ Residents of the UK Ÿ Entitlement to a UK GHIC is not based on your nationality. The UK operates a residency-based healthcare system (the NHS), which means access is generally determined by residency and not by the past or present payment of National Insurance contributions or UK taxes. If you're ordinarily resident in the UK and not insured by an EU country, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, you're likely to be considered insured by the UK and will be entitled to a GHIC. You'll need to provide the necessary evidence when applying. There are certain circumstances where you may be entitled to a GHIC or UK-issued EHIC despite living in an EU country, Norway, Iceland, LIVErNEWS Issue 74 ~
15 ~ Spring 2021
