Sahha.gov.mt - Applying for a European Health Insurance Card

International travelling has become cheaper and more widespread than ever before. In this respect, it’s easy to forget the health risks that may be involved. Few countries offer free, straightforward, access to medical facilities like that provided by our State.

In this area one can find information about the EHIC, the Maltese citizens’ passport to free or reduced-cost emergency care in most other European countries and European Economic Area. This area also contains advice for travellers about planning ahead, staying healthy and getting treatment elsewhere in the world.

To obtain an EHIC follow this information:

Description

Persons issued with a European Health Insurance Card will be eligible to free or reduced-cost emergency medical treatment during temporary visits in EEA countries and Switzerland.
The purpose of the EHIC is to facilitate access to medical care during the holder’s temporary stay in another Member State, and to speed up reimbursement of the costs incurred. For more detailed information about the EHIC click here.

Who is eligible for the Service?

Persons who are ordinarily residing in Malta and are:

Covered by the national Social Security legislation.
Holders of a Certificate of Entitlement (issued through the presentation of E121 forms).

Applying for an EHIC

The EHIC is free. A separate application form is needed for each person, with the exception of children under 16.
The application form should reach the Entitlement Unit at least fifteen (15) working days prior to the departure date to allow for processing and postage of the card.

You can:

Apply by clicking here if you have an e-ID.
Download application by clicking here, fill it up and send on below indicated postal address.
Collect an application form from the Entitlement Unit or from any Local Council, fill them up and return it to the Head of Entitlement Unit, Ministry of Health, the Elderly and Community Care, 23, St. John’s Street, Valletta. VLT 1168

Renewing an EHIC

An EHIC is usually valid for 3 years. You will need to apply for a new one before the expiry date as indicated in the above section. You can apply up to 3 months before the expiry date. In cases where you are applying before the expiry of the card, the valid card has to be submitted with the application for a new card to be issued.

Replacing an EHIC

Lost or stolen EHIC cards will only be replaced upon submission of a new application accompanied with an affidavit or police report.

What are the Citizen’s obligations?

Applicants are obliged to provide correct information and supporting documents requested by the Entitlement Unit. Applications which are incorrectly filled or lacking supporting documentation will not be processed. The EHIC must only be used in public hospitals in cases were immediately necessary care is necessary. The EHIC does NOT cover you if the purpose of your visit is to get medical treatment including visits to seek a second opinion. Persons issued with an EHIC are obliged to inform the Unit of any change in circumstances particularly changes related to the transfer of residence to another member state, death and changes in Social Security coverage.

What will the Department / Unit provide in return?

The Entitlement Unit will issue the EHIC within 10 working days from receipt of application. Cards are processed on a first come first served basis.

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