Jan27Written by:Paul Cronin
27/01/2012 14:35 
A European Health Insurance card entitles UK residents temporarily visiting Europe to obtain medical treatment sometimes for free or sometimes at reduced cost (but only treatment available under the state schemes). EHIC cards are valid for only 5 years, so if you’ve had yours for a while check the expiry date in good time before you travel. You can renew or apply for a EHIC at the NHS website where the card is free (don’t get taken in by an unofficial site and have to pay a fee).
You can apply online for a card or by phone on an automated service, or download and application form, and the card will usually arrive in 7 days. To get a card you need to give your full name, date of birth and National Insurance or NHS number (CHI number in Scotland or Health and Care Number in Northern Ireland). The parents of anyone under 16 will need to apply for them.