Summer is here, suitcases are getting packed… but have you thought about bringing one of the most useful documents in case something goes wrong abroad?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is your health ally if you fall ill or need urgent medical care during a temporary stay in another EU country.
What is the EHIC?
The EHIC proves your entitlement to health insurance and allows you to receive medically necessary care in another European country during your stay (holiday, weekend, tourism, cross-border shopping, etc.).
It is free, personal (one card per family member), and valid for:
- 2 years if you are affiliated in France or Belgium
- According to the duration shown on the card (which varies) if you are affiliated in Germany or Luxembourg
Where is it valid?
In all European Union countries, as well as in Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
If needed, you can:
- Visit a local doctor or public hospital
- Receive urgent care under the same conditions as locals
- Often avoid paying upfront (or be reimbursed later, depending on the country’s system)
Who can apply for it?
Any insured person under the general health system – including cross-border workers.
Each health system issues its own EHIC.
A cross-border worker affiliated with CNS in Luxembourg must request the card from Luxembourg, not from France.
How to apply?
t’s quick and easy:
On ameli.fr if you are insured under the French social security system
Or via the online services of your foreign health fund, sometimes even via an app (e.g., Belgian mutuality apps)
| Good to know It does not replace private travel insurance (repatriation, dental costs, etc.) It’s recommended even for short stays, including in Germany or Luxembourg It is free – beware of fraudulent websites that charge money for it! |
Further information can be found on the website of our partner Frontaliers Grand Est
