Experts are urging Brits to apply for a replacement Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to avoid hefty medical bills ahead of their travels this year.

Following Brexit, the European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) became obsolete, but those with pre-existing EHICs will see them expire in 2025.

If your EHIC is still valid then it will remain so until the expiry date stated on the card.

Travel insurance experts from Quotezone.co.uk recommend that British holidaymakers apply for a GHIC, which provides access to necessary state healthcare at the same cost as local residents.

CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, Greg Wilson, said: “This year will be important, even for seasoned travellers, to make sure they are aware of changes to travel requirements.

“Anyone travelling with a valid EHIC can continue to use it when they travel within European countries up until its expiration date.

“But, if your card is nearing expiration or you have misplaced your card, it is time to apply for the new GHIC.

“Anyone who renewed in 2020 as the legislation changed, will have received some of the last EHIC’s available and will now, five years on, be ready for their first GHIC.

“Remember, the card is not a replacement for travel insurance, it allows you access to medically necessary treatment at the local rate of the country you are in – so it is important you have a relevant and accurate insurance policy to protect you before travelling, especially if you have a pre-existing condition.”

The GHIC online is valid for up to five years and covers emergency treatment, pre-existing conditions, and routine maternity care (excluding planned births).

However, some treatments might require pre-arrangement and the card doesn’t cover private healthcare, repatriation, or services like ski rescues.

It’s valid in the EEA, Switzerland, Montenegro, Australia, and some British Overseas Territories and can be applied for if you’re a UK resident who isn’t covered by an EEA or Swiss healthcare system.

If you don’t have the card while traveling, a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) can provide temporary coverage and if you’re incorrectly charged for treatment, you can file a refund claim with NHS Overseas Healthcare Services.

The GHIC is free and can be applied for online nine months before the old card expires.

Even with travel insurance, having a GHIC can prevent significant out-of-pocket expenses for medical care abroad.

Ensure you also have comprehensive travel insurance for full coverage.

Always verify the specifics of your travel insurance policy and disclose any pre-existing conditions to avoid unexpected costs.