Global Health Insurance Card

Written By Anna Kanivets

Information Pack for Afghans on the ARAP and ACRS schemes

What is the GHIC?

The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is a free card that allows UK residents to access medically necessary healthcare when travelling to certain European countries, either for free or at a reduced cost. It replaced the old EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) after Brexit. This card is especially useful for members of the Afghan community in the UK who may travel to Europe for family visits, holidays, or other reasons.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply for a GHIC if:

  • You are ordinarily resident in the UK

  • You are a British citizen, refugee, asylum seeker, or have humanitarian protection

  • You receive benefits such as Universal Credit or other forms of UK residency support

You can apply for each family member, including children.

What Does GHIC Cover?

GHIC covers medically necessary treatment that cannot wait until you return to the UK.

This includes:

  • Emergency treatment (e.g., after an accident)

  • Doctor visits for unexpected illness

  • Maternity care (if not travelling specifically to give birth)

  • Kidney dialysis

  • Oxygen and related care

It does not cover:

  • Private healthcare

  • Mountain rescue or air ambulance

  • Returning you to the UK (repatriation)

  • Pre-booked medical treatments abroad

Always take travel insurance along with your GHIC.

How to Apply and Use GHIC

You can apply online for free at the official NHS website:

🔗 https://www.nhs.uk/ghic

Steps:

  1. Create or log in to an NHS account.

  2. Provide your full name, date of birth, NHS number (if available), and National Insurance number.

  3. For children, the parent or guardian must apply on their behalf.

✅ It is completely free – beware of fake websites that charge a fee.

How Long is it Valid?

The GHIC is valid for 5 years. You can renew it when it expires.

Which Countries Accept GHIC?

GHIC is accepted in most European Union (EU) countries including:

• France

• Germany

• Italy

• Spain

• Netherlands

• Austria

• Belgium

• Portugal

(More countries are added or updated – check NHS site before travelling). GHIC does not cover countries like Turkey or the USA.

Important Travel Tips

  • Carry your GHIC with you when travelling.

  • Always take travel insurance for full protection.

  • GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance.

  • Keep copies of your GHIC in case of loss.

🌐 Translation and Support

If you need help applying for the GHIC or understanding the system:

  • You can contact Citizens Advice or local Afghan community support groups.

  • Language support may be available in Dari or Pashto.

USPUK Afghan team is ready to assist you.

For further information, feel free to reach out to us on WhatsApp at +447360861633 or via email at afghanistan@uspuk.org.

*Information last undated on 01.10.2025

**The content in this pack is for informational purposes only. It is not professional advice. Seek guidance from relevant experts or authorities for specific concerns or decisions.

Anna Kanivets
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