European Health Insurance Card: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to access emergency medical coverage in EU countries using your national health card.
The European Health Insurance Card provides coverage for necessary medical treatment when you are traveling in EU countries. It is designed to ensure that people traveling within the European Union can access healthcare when it is required.
Who it's for
This scheme is available to all members of the Italian National Health Service (SSN). If you are registered with the national health system, you are eligible to use this coverage while traveling.
What you get
If you become ill or injured while traveling, this card gives you access to necessary medical care. It is intended to ensure that you can receive treatment under the same conditions and at the same cost as citizens in the country you are visiting. This provides a level of security for medical needs that arise during your time abroad.
What it costs you
There is no additional fee or separate cost to obtain this card. The benefits provided by the card are already included with your standard national health card.
The catch to know
It is important to remember that this card is not a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance. While it covers necessary medical care, it is not intended to cover every possible travel-related cost or non-emergency medical situations. You should consider whether you need additional insurance for things not covered by standard emergency care.
How to apply
- Verify your status as a member of the national health service.
- Locate your current national health card.
- Ensure you have the card with you whenever you travel to EU countries.