European Health Insurance Card

[Ladygooner]

Just noticed mine is about to expire (the old E111) and went to renew on line only to be asked for ?14.99! When did they start charging for this? Not sure I want to pay - what would happen if I had to go to hospital in a European country and I did not have a current card?

[Loz]

They are still free. I think you've stumbled upon a dodgy website, LG. Try:

http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/EHIC/Pages/Introduction.aspx

ETA: The EHIC is no substitution for travel insurance.

[Townleygreen]

Not sure. I renewed mine last year - no charge. Must be due to the cuts (or maybe gang activity?).

Without one, you might be OK but I frankly doubt it.

[Alan Medic]

According to this it's still free

But some 'unofficial' sites may charge you.

[maxxi]

I think that's just online - ?14.99 online, ?2 from a Post Office, free by phone and on NHSBSA site

- EHIC application

[LuLu Too]

Do NOT pay Ladygooner, the EHIC card is absolutely free!

Beware of dodgy websites.

www.ehic.org.uk is the official site.

The NHS Business Authority website has a link as does www.nhs.uk

[shebe]

It's definitely free! 'Unofficial site' = scam.

[Ladygooner]

Thanks all - just phoned 0845 6062030 and ordered a replacement FOC.

Avoid this website www.renewehic.org which charges a processing fee of ?14.99!

[peachy]

I applied for one on line last week for free. I haven't received it yet but definitely was not asked for money.