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The European Health Insurance Card covers medically necessary care during temporary stays in covered countries. It is not comprehensive travel insurance.
Check responsibility first
Identify the institution responsible for your healthcare. Spanish residence alone does not make everyone an INSS applicant. Check particularly where S1 is registered.
Plan for each traveller
Check each person’s card and expiry date. One family card does not replace individual evidence. Children need appropriate personal evidence too.
Check address and access
Use the official service and available identification methods. Review contact details before a card is sent to an old address. Retain the application confirmation.
Consider imminent departure
If delivery cannot be timely, check the official provisional replacement certificate and eligibility. Its dates must cover the journey. Do not pay an intermediary merely because it advertises the free official card.
Understand coverage limits
The card does not replace authorisation for planned treatment or cover private healthcare and repatriation. Local rules govern treatment. A permanent move requires a different assessment.
Official sources and next steps
- Seguridad Social: European Health Insurance Card
- Seguridad Social: Application and replacement certificate
Related assistance: Health insurance and health cards.
Related next steps: Register S1 in Spain: healthcare for pensioners · Revoke a digital certificate in Spain.
Prepare your enquiry
Identify the responsible insurer, destination and departure date. Provide confidential insurance numbers only through an appropriate channel.
Request assistance in EnglishUpdated: 23 October 2026. General guidance. Your circumstances and the current requirements of the competent authority are decisive.