With holiday travel on the rise, UK residents are being urged to act quickly on their ehic card renewal 2025 to ensure uninterrupted healthcare coverage in Europe. The UK European Health Insurance Card continues to offer access to medically necessary state-provided healthcare in EU countries during temporary stays, such as holidays, studies, or business trips.
Many cards issued before Brexit or during transition periods are now set to expire in 2025. Without a valid EHIC or its replacement (GHIC), travelers could face costly medical bills abroad. If your EHIC is nearing expiry, now is the time to learn how to renew it, what documents you need, and what options are available post-Brexit.
What Is the EHIC and Why Do You Still Need It?
The UK European Health Insurance Card allows UK citizens to receive treatment in EU countries at the same cost as residents of that country—sometimes free, sometimes subsidised. Though the UK left the EU, a reciprocal health agreement remains in place, allowing citizens to retain this benefit under EHIC or its replacement, the GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card).
While the GHIC has replaced the EHIC for most applicants, existing EHIC cards remain valid until their printed expiry date. For those expiring in 2025, completing the ehic card renewal 2025 ensures that you remain protected throughout your European travels this year.
Who Can Renew Their EHIC in 2025?
You can proceed with ehic card renewal 2025 if you meet any of the following eligibility requirements:
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You already hold a valid EHIC card and it’s due to expire
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You are a UK national or legally residing in the UK
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You are studying in the EU, a posted worker, or receive a UK pension but live in the EU
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You are a family member of someone who meets one of these conditions
Most UK citizens will be issued a GHIC upon renewal unless they fall under special categories that qualify them for a renewed EHIC. Regardless, both cards offer similar coverage under the current UK European Health Insurance Card agreements.
How to Renew Your EHIC or Apply for GHIC
Renewing your EHIC—or applying for a GHIC if applicable—is free and can be done entirely online. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the ehic card renewal 2025 process:
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the NHS official GHIC/EHIC website | Only use official gov.uk or NHS links |
| 2 | Enter personal details | Name, DOB, National Insurance number |
| 3 | Upload supporting documents (if required) | Especially for students, posted workers, or pensioners |
| 4 | Submit your renewal | You’ll receive confirmation via email |
| 5 | Wait for delivery | Card usually arrives within 15 working days |
During the UK European Health Insurance Card renewal, ensure your postal address is up-to-date and check your email for approval or requests for more documents.
What to Know About Using Your EHIC or GHIC Abroad
Once your ehic card renewal 2025 is complete, you can use the card in over 30 European countries. However, it’s important to know the card does not replace travel insurance. It covers:
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Emergency treatment
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Treatment for chronic or existing medical conditions
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Routine maternity care
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Dialysis and oxygen therapy (pre-arranged)
It does not cover private healthcare, mountain rescue, repatriation, or lost/stolen property. That’s why, even with a valid UK European Health Insurance Card, travellers should still purchase full travel insurance.
Conclusion
The ehic card renewal 2025 is an essential step for anyone travelling to Europe this year. With updated policies post-Brexit, you may be issued a GHIC instead of another EHIC, but both ensure you’re covered under reciprocal healthcare agreements. The process is free, fast, and fully online—just make sure to apply at least three weeks before you travel.
Whether you’re a student abroad, pensioner in Spain, or just headed to the south of France this summer, keeping your UK European Health Insurance Card up-to-date guarantees peace of mind during your trip.
FAQs
Who is eligible for EHIC card renewal in 2025?
People who already have an EHIC and are eligible under reciprocal agreements—like pensioners living in the EU or UK students abroad—can apply for ehic card renewal 2025.
Will I get another EHIC or a GHIC?
Most applicants will now receive a GHIC instead of an EHIC, unless they meet criteria under EU withdrawal agreements related to the UK European Health Insurance Card.
How long does it take to receive my renewed card?
If approved, your card should arrive within 15 working days after your ehic card renewal 2025 application.
Do I need to pay to renew my EHIC or GHIC?
No. The UK European Health Insurance Card and its replacement (GHIC) are issued for free by the NHS.
Can I use EHIC instead of travel insurance?
No. Even with a valid ehic card renewal 2025, you still need full travel insurance for private care, cancellations, and repatriation.
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