MARTIN Lewis’ Money Saving Expert has issued a holiday warning for Brits heading abroad this half term.
Many families may not have realised their European Health Insurance Cards (EHICs) have expired during Covid.
2
The cards, which entitle the holder to free healthcare depending on what locals are offered in any EU country, are free for Brits.
For example, any free healthcare Spanish nationals are entitled to, is given to Brits with the card.
However, the card has since changed from an EHIC to a GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) since Brexit.
While still free, the website has warned travellers to check theirs is still in date before travelling.
“It states: “Going to the EU? Ensure you’ve a valid GHIC or EHIC – millions expire this year.
“If you plan to travel to the EU, these cards give you access to state-run hospitals or GPs at the same price as a local. So if it’s free for them, it’s free for you.
“If you’ve the old European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), check it is still valid.
“If you don’t have one, since Brexit it’s been replaced by the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).”
Most read in News Travel
Brits should also never pay for the card, despite some websites claiming they cost – they are always free of charge via the NHS.
The website added: “Never pay for either card (not even if they promise fast track – that’s a scam).”
And while it entitles some free healthcare, holidaymakers will still need travel insurance, especially when travelling during Covid restrictions.
New UK travel rules have been introduced from today, which lets 12 to 16 year olds access the NHS Covid app to prove proof of vaccination when travelling abroad.
And from February 11, all Covid tests for vaccinated holidaymakers will be scrapped.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps previously said that arrivals will only need to fill in a Passenger Locator Form when entering the UK, as long as they have had both jabs.
Unvaccinated Brits will have to take pre-departure tests and a post-arrival PCR test, but will no longer have to isolate or take another test on day eight.
Holidaymakers will still have to check the travel rules for other countries, with many having restrictions for arrivals.
Spain has introduced new rules this week which means all arrivals over 12 must be vaccinated, with proof of recoveries no longer accepted.
2
