How do I apply for the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?
There are three ways to apply or renew:
Apply online – via the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) website. This is the quickest way to apply for your EHIC and delivery is within 7 days.
Apply by phone - call 0845 606 2030. Delivery is within 10 days.
Apply by post - Delivery is within 21 days. Complete a printed form (available from your local post office) and send it to:
EHIC Applications,
PO Box 1115,
Newcastle upon Tyne,
NE99 1SW.
There is no charge for the EHIC and to apply, you will require NHS or National Insurance Number/s, Surname, Forenames and the Date of Birth of each applicant. Every family member will need their own EHIC, which you can apply for at the same time (spouse / partner and any children up to the age of 16 or 19 if in full time education).
Some people may be required to apply for the EHIC by post, for example, some non-UK nationals who are legally living in the UK. For more information, please visit the Department of Health website.