European Health Insurance Cards: A Must-Have for Your International Team

Expanding your team into the global marketplace comes with new opportunities — and new considerations. One essential item for employees working in Europe is the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This card simplifies access to necessary healthcare services across European countries, an invaluable asset if you have employees who travel for work or are stationed in any of the 27 EU member countries. 

Let’s explore how the EHIC works, who it benefits, and what employers need to know to support their international team.

What Is the European Health Insurance Card?

The EHIC allows EU residents to access medically necessary healthcare in other EU countries at the same cost as locals. Think of it as a safeguard, offering your team members peace of mind while they work and travel within Europe. This card doesn’t replace travel insurance or cover non-essential treatments, but it’s a helpful addition to an employee’s healthcare options abroad.

Why the EHIC Matters for International Employers

If you’re an employer managing talent across multiple countries, understanding the EHIC’s benefits and limitations can help you better support your team. Providing information on the EHIC ensures that employees are prepared in the event of illness or injury, and it can reduce the administrative headaches often associated with cross-border healthcare issues.

With the EHIC, employees on temporary assignments in Europe or those who travel regularly can feel secure knowing they have access to essential medical services. For companies employing talent through an employer of record (EOR) like Justworks, understanding and communicating EHIC options is even more important, as EORs help with international compliance.

How Does an EHIC Work?

Once issued, an EHIC enables employees to receive medically necessary healthcare in any participating EU country at the same cost as residents. Employees must carry their EHIC when traveling or working within the EU and present it at medical facilities if they need care.

This means that in the event of an accident, sudden illness, or any condition that needs immediate attention, they won’t be out of pocket for more than the local residents. EHIC holders pay the same fees (or nothing, if it’s free locally), and healthcare costs are largely covered through arrangements between countries.

Who Qualifies and What Does the EHIC Cover?

The EHIC is available to EU, EEA (European Economic Area), and Swiss residents. Non-EU citizens are eligible to apply if they are living and working in an EU country and are eligible for that country’s social security structure. 

When discussing the EHIC with your employees, make sure they understand its scope. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Covered: Medically necessary treatment, including accidents, sudden illnesses, and maternity care.

• Not Covered: Routine check-ups, non-urgent procedures, and private healthcare. It’s also important to note that the EHIC does not replace travel insurance, so employees may still need separate insurance for broader coverage.

Providing this clarity can help your employees understand what they’re entitled to and avoid confusion.

Steps to Obtaining an EHIC

If your employees qualify, applying for an EHIC card is simple. Here’s what they’ll need to do:

1. Determine Eligibility: Make sure they’re eligible based on their residence and nationality. An EOR can be helpful here, as we have local on-the-ground experts who understand compliance in the EU. 

2. Apply Online or In Person: Most countries offer EHIC applications through their national health services, with many allowing online applications for added convenience.

3. Wait for Delivery: Processing times vary, but the card should arrive within a few weeks.

Comprehensive Support for International Growth

While the EHIC is a practical solution for essential healthcare in Europe, international employers should think holistically. Ensuring that your employees are covered for routine, non-emergency care can make a world of difference. Comprehensive healthcare benefits and support in navigating cross-border healthcare systems can help attract and retain top talent.

An EOR can provide these services and act as a bridge between your company’s goals and the regional regulations, offering streamlined solutions and giving you peace of mind.

Ready to Expand Internationally? Let Justworks Guide the Way!

Expanding internationally is a big step — let Justworks help you get it right. From health insurance to entity support, Justworks is your partner in global expansion. Ready to learn more? Get started today.