Healthcare and Insurance for British Citizens Travelling or Moving Abroad
Published / Last Updated on 15/04/2026
1. Overview
British citizens travelling or relocating abroad may be able to use a GHIC/EHIC for medically necessary state healthcare in certain countries.
However, travel insurance and/or full private health insurance is usually required, especially for long‑term stays.
2. Visiting the EU and Switzerland
2.1 Eligibility
UK residents can use:
- GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card)
- EHIC (European Health Insurance Card – if still valid)
2.2 What GHIC/EHIC Covers
- Medically necessary state‑provided healthcare during a temporary stay
- Free or discounted treatment depending on the country
2.3 Limitations
GHIC/EHIC does not cover:
- Private healthcare
- Repatriation
- Non‑urgent planned treatment
2.4 Switzerland
GHIC is valid for:
- UK residents who are UK, Swiss, EU nationals or otherwise eligible
3. Living in the EU or Switzerland
3.1 Key Points
- GHIC/EHIC is not a substitute for full healthcare when living abroad.
- Each country has its own registration, social security, and insurance rules.
- Many residency visas require comprehensive health insurance.
3.2 Country‑Specific Rules
Full guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/healthcare-in-the-eu-norway-iceland-liechtenstein-and-switzerland
4. Visiting Countries Outside Europe
4.1 Reciprocal Healthcare Agreements
Some non‑EU countries have agreements with the UK. Coverage varies widely.
Check the list:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/uk-reciprocal-healthcare-agreements-with-non-eu-countries
4.2 Travel Insurance
Always required, even where a reciprocal agreement exists.
4.3 Examples
Australia
Covered:
- Medically necessary treatment outside hospital
- Public hospital treatment as a public patient
- Some prescription medicines under the PBS
Not covered:
- Most GP visits
- Most prescription medicines
- Ambulance services
- Dental treatment
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Covered:
- Hospital treatment
- Some dental treatment (same basis as residents)
- Other medical treatment (same basis as residents)
Not covered:
- Prescribed medicines
5. Living Outside Europe
5.1 GHIC Limitations
GHIC is mainly for emergency treatment and is not suitable for long‑term residence.
5.2 Long‑Term Moves
You will usually need:
- Full private health insurance
- Local social security registration (country‑dependent)
- Top‑up insurance for gaps in state coverage
5.3 Temporary Residence (e.g., employer secondment)
If you remain liable for UK National Insurance, you may be eligible for an S1 form.
- S1 allows access to state healthcare funded by the NHS.
- Local providers bill the NHS directly.
- Availability depends on the country’s treaty with the UK.
If S1 is not accepted, full private health insurance is required.
6. Quick Comparison Table
|
Situation |
GHIC/EHIC |
Travel Insurance |
Local Registration |
Private/Top‑Up Insurance |
|
Visiting EU/EEA/Switzerland |
✔️ |
✔️ |
❌ |
❌ |
|
Living in EU/EEA/Switzerland |
❌ Limited |
✔️ |
✔️ |
✔️ Often |
|
Visiting non‑EU countries |
✔️ If reciprocal |
✔️ |
❌ |
❌ |
|
Living outside Europe |
❌ |
✔️ |
✔️ Often |
✔️ Usually |
|
Temporary secondment |
❌ |
✔️ |
✔️ Depends |
✔️ If S1 not accepted |
7. FAQs
What does a GHIC cover?
Medically necessary state‑provided healthcare during temporary stays in EU countries and, in some cases, Switzerland.
Do I still need travel insurance if I have a GHIC?
Yes. GHIC does not cover private care, repatriation, or all treatment costs.
Can I use a GHIC if I move abroad?
No. GHIC is not intended for long‑term residence.
Do reciprocal healthcare agreements replace travel insurance?
No. They only cover limited state‑provided treatment.
What is an S1 form?
A certificate allowing certain UK‑insured individuals (e.g., seconded workers, pensioners) to access state healthcare abroad funded by the NHS.
Do all countries accept the S1?
No. Acceptance depends on the UK’s agreement with the specific country.
