European Health Card: advantages for pensioners

Traveling abroad is an exciting experience, but to do it safely it is important to take into account key aspects such as healthcare in case of illness or accident. If your destination is in Europe, take the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) It is more than recommended. Below, we explain what it is, what it covers and how you can request it.

What is the European Health Card?

The European Health Card It is a personal, free and non-transferable document that certifies the right to receive public healthcare during temporary stays in the 27 countries of the European Union, as well as in the United Kingdom, Norway, Liechtenstein, Iceland and Switzerland. It is valid whether you are traveling for tourism, work or study.

Does it cover healthcare in Andorra?

No. The TSE is not valid in Andorra. To receive health care in this country it is necessary to previously request the certificate E-AND-111 through the Social Security website.

What health services does it cover?

The EHIC allows you to access the public healthcare of the destination country under the same conditions as its citizens. This means that you will receive the necessary medical attention during your stay for unexpected health reasons. In the case of certain chronic diseases -such as kidney dialysis, oxygen therapy, special treatments for asthma, echocardiography in autoimmune diseases or chemotherapy- a prior agreement with the health center of the destination country.

When is the TSE not valid?

The European Health Card does not cover travel for the purpose of receiving scheduled medical treatment. In these cases, the INSS must issue the corresponding form after a favorable report from the health service.

It is also not valid if you transfer your habitual residence to another State.

Who can request it?

The holders of the right to health care in Spain and their beneficiaries can obtain it, as long as they comply with the requirements established by Spanish legislation and community regulations.
Each traveler must have their own card, including dependent beneficiaries.

It is important to note that non-nationals of countries where the EHIC is valid, including Spain, are not entitled to healthcare if they travel to Denmark, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Iceland or Norway.

How to apply for the European Health Card?

The TSE can be requested in different ways:

• On-linethrough the INSS Benefits website, identifying yourself with a digital certificate, Cl@ve or via SMS.

• On the Your Social Security portalboth for the owner and beneficiaries, and also through an authorized representative.

• In personat the Social Security Assistance and Information Centers (CAISS), by appointment.

• By phoneby calling 901 16 65 65 or 91 542 11 76.

It is essential to have the address updated so that the card can be sent correctly.

How and when is it renewed?

Renewal can be done through the same means as the initial application and up to 60 days before the expiration date. It is always a good idea to check that the card covers the entire period of the trip, including the return date.

How long does it take to arrive and how long does it last?

Once requested, the EHIC is sent to your home within approximately five days. It is not delivered by hand.

Its general validity is up to two years, although some groups, like retireesthey can have cards with a duration up to five years.

What if it doesn’t arrive on time?

If the trip is imminent or it is not possible to issue the card, you can request the Substitute Provisional Certificate (CPS), which offers the same coverage for a maximum of 90 days a year.

Is healthcare always free?

Not necessarily. The TSE guarantees the same conditions as for citizens of the destination country. In some cases, it will be necessary to pay a fixed amount or a percentage of the cost of attendance, amounts that are non-refundable.

For example, Spanish pensioners must pay the usual price for medicines in the country they visit.

For all these reasons, before traveling it is advisable to inform yourself well about the health system and possible costs of the destination country to avoid surprises and travel with greater peace of mind.