A GHIC is free and provides necessary state healthcare in the EEA and some other countries on the same basis as a resident of that country. GHICs replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) after Brexit.
Figures obtained by Compare the Market via a Freedom of Information request to the NHS found that the number of UK holidaymakers applying for a GHIC has dropped for the second consecutive year.
The price comparison website warned that travellers may be putting themselves at serious financial risk if they need medical care abroad and don’t have a GHIC.
The research found that 4.6 million GHIC cards were issued in 2024, down 18% from 2023 and 23% from the 2022 peak of more than 6.1 million.
Compare the Market’s research shows the NHS has spent more than £300m on medical treatment abroad for UK citizens with EHICs or GHICs between 2021 and 2024, with 17.6 million people applying for GHICs in those years.
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However, the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) data shows that UK residents made 86.2 million visits abroad in 2023 alone, suggesting millions of people are travelling without a GHIC.
However, while the GHIC provides help with necessary medical care, it doesn’t offer the same medical protection as travel insurance. For example, it won’t necessarily cover costs you might incur for treatment, as some countries may charge for services that are free under the NHS.
It also won’t cover private treatment, evacuations such as mountain rescues, or repatriation costs if you need to be flown back to the UK.
However, it’s important to have a GHIC when you go away, as some insurers won’t cover medical claims unless you use the card first.
Drop in GHIC applications ‘is concerning’
Anna McEntee, travel insurance expert at Compare the Market, said: “The drop in applications for GHICs is concerning, as holidaymakers could face substantial hospital bills if they need medical care while they’re away. After a peak in applications in 2022, [possibly] due to post-Covid travel surge, applications have been declining each year.
“Having a GHIC can be incredibly useful if you need medical care while on holiday. However, GHICs don’t cover all medical costs such as mountain rescues, private medical treatment, or getting home after a medical emergency. Without insurance, you could still be left facing a significant bill.”
