Nearly 1.3 Million UK Health Cards Set to Expire, Travelers Urged to Check Coverage

Nearly 1.3 million UK Global Health Insurance Cards (GHICs) are set to expire this year, prompting a warning for travelers to verify their coverage before international trips. The National Health Service (NHS) data, obtained by Compare the Market, indicates that 1,299,484 GHICs will become invalid in 2026.

These cards provide essential access to state-provided healthcare for UK residents traveling in Europe, but they are not a replacement for comprehensive travel insurance. The NHS processed over 5 million applications for GHICs in 2025 alone, reflecting their continued importance for travelers.

Currently, there are over 23 million GHICs in circulation, with the majority held by individuals in the UK. Significant numbers are also held by Britons residing abroad, with Spain, France, and Cyprus having the highest numbers of GHICs held by their expatriate communities.

Data reveals a consistent use of GHICs by travelers. In 2025, there were 73,204 recorded instances of GHIC use, following 111,870 in 2024 and 108,528 in 2023. Spain has been the most frequent destination for GHIC use over the past three years, with 137,263 instances, followed by Poland, France, and Germany.

Tim Knighton, a travel insurance expert at Compare the Market, emphasized the need for travelers to check their GHIC expiry dates well in advance of their departure. He noted that an expired card could lead to unexpected medical bills abroad. Knighton also pointed out the increasing demand for Provisional Replacement Certificates (PRCs), which serve as temporary proof of healthcare entitlement when a valid GHIC is unavailable.

While GHIC applications saw a 20% decrease between 2023 and 2025, PRC applications rose by 31% during the same period. This trend suggests that while fewer people may be applying for new GHICs, the need for access to healthcare abroad remains significant, and individuals may find themselves needing interim solutions when their GHICs expire.

Knighton advised that GHICs are useful for necessary state healthcare but stressed that they do not cover all potential costs or circumstances that travel insurance can address. He recommended arranging travel insurance as soon as a trip is booked and carefully comparing policies to ensure adequate medical and other coverage.