European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

11.10.2025

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is a free document that confirms your right to receive medical care in EU countries, as well as in Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, during holidays or short trips.

Foreign nationals who are not EU citizens but legally reside in the EU and are insured under a national health system can also apply for this card. However, they cannot use it for treatment in Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, or Liechtenstein.

The card guarantees access to emergency and necessary medical care under the same conditions as local residents. For example, if a doctor’s visit in Italy costs €30, the EHIC holder will pay exactly the same amount — no extra fees.

What the card covers:

Visits to doctors and hospital stays when necessary.
Emergency medical treatment.
Medicines prescribed by a doctor.

What is not covered:

Treatment in private clinics not affiliated with the public healthcare system.
Planned or elective medical services.
Medical repatriation or transportation home.
Additional comforts (e.g., a private hospital room).

You can apply for an EHIC through your insurance provider, or request it online or in person.

Thinking about getting a residence permit in Slovakia? Contact us: +421951909019, info@emigrant.help.