EHICkortti

EHICkortti, or the European Health Insurance Card, is issued by the national health insurance authority of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland. It allows the holder to access medically necessary state-provided healthcare during temporary stays in other member countries, on the same terms as residents of the country being visited.

The card is intended for emergency treatment and medically necessary care that becomes necessary during a visit. It does not cover private healthcare, cosmetic procedures, or purely elective care. It also does not guarantee free or fully covered treatment in every situation; charges may apply according to the local system, and it does not cover costs like planned treatments abroad or non-medical expenses such as travel or accommodation. EHICkortti is not a substitute for travel insurance.

Eligibility and issuance vary by country. It is typically available to anyone who is ordinarily insured under the national health system of that country. The card serves temporary stays and does not constitute long-term international health coverage.

Validity and related changes: Card validity and renewal procedures depend on the issuing country and are usually several years. Since Brexit, the United Kingdom issues the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for residents; existing EHICs issued before changes may still be valid until their expiration. Other participating countries continue to issue EHICkortti as their standard form of coverage for cross-border care.

How to obtain: Apply through the national health insurer or relevant public service website of your home country. The process is typically free and available online or by mail. It should be carried with you when traveling within EU/EEA and Switzerland.