EKUZ European Health Insurance

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), known as EKUZ in some countries, provides access to essential medical care during temporary stays in EU countries and Switzerland. It covers treatment on the same terms as local residents, including hospital and emergency care. The card is free and ensures that you won’t face unexpected medical costs while traveling within the EU. It’s a vital tool for health coverage abroad.

Who can benefit from the card?

To qualify for the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you must be insured or covered by a state social security system in any EU Member State, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. Each family member traveling should have their own card. Non-EU nationals who legally reside in the EU and are covered by a state social security scheme can also obtain a card. However, it cannot be used for medical treatment in Denmark, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland.

Validity of the card

Eligibility and coverage can vary by country, so it’s best to check with your local health authority when applying for the card. They can provide specific information about your coverage and any conditions that may apply.

National Information and Contacts

Cards are issued by the national health insurance institution in your country of permanent residence, whether you are a citizen or a foreigner. For information on medical contacts and costs of medical services in the country you are visiting, please refer to the essential details provided:

• emergency phone numbers
• treatments that are covered and costs
• how to claim reimbursement and who to contact in case you have lost your card

The database covers 27 EU countries, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. It is available in 24 languages.

What action can you take if your local authority refuses to give you a European Health Insurance Card?

When requesting the European Health Insurance Card, your local authority is required to provide you with the card or, if unavailable, a provisional replacement certificate. If they fail to do so, you have the right to appeal the decision. Ensure you follow up to receive the necessary documentation for your healthcare coverage.

What to do if your EHIC isn’t recognized abroad?

If your EHIC is not recognised by the authorities of any EU country – or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland – you can request your home insurer to contact the doctor or hospital abroad.

If this does not solve your problem, you can ask SOLVIT for help.

SOLVIT is a service provided by the national administration in each EU country and in Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. SOLVIT is free of charge.

Important informations:

•  Remember, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is not a substitute for travel insurance. It doesn’t cover private healthcare, repatriation, lost luggage, or theft. It also doesn’t cover costs if your trip is specifically for medical treatment abroad.”

• Healthcare systems vary by country, so services that are free at home may not be free elsewhere.”
• If you move to another country, make sure to register with an S1 form instead of relying on your EHIC for medical care in your new home country.”

Summary

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), or EKUZ in some countries, offers essential medical coverage during temporary stays in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, and the UK. It provides access to healthcare on par with local residents and is crucial for managing medical expenses abroad. Eligibility extends to those insured by state social security systems, including non-EU residents legally residing in the EU, though coverage may vary by country.

If your card isn’t recognized or you face issues, contact your home insurer or seek assistance from SOLVIT, a free service for resolving cross-border problems. However, remember the EHIC does not replace travel insurance and doesn’t cover private care or repatriation. Always check specific coverage details with your local authority and register with an S1 form if moving to a new country.