Health System > Public Healthcare > EU > European Health Insurance Card

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

Who may need an EHIC and why? The EHIC is a document that certifies that an EU citizen is covered by and entitled to public health insurance. The card is personalised, and in Spain, is issued by the National Social Security Institute (INSS).

Institution/Support Centre

CatSalut. Catalan Health Service
www10.gencat.net/catsalut/eng/index.htm
Travessera de les Corts, 131-159 Edifici Olímpia
08028 Barcelona
Tel. 93 403 85 85 Fax 93 403 89 25
atencioalciutada@catsalut.cat

Opening hours:
Monday to Friday: 9.00 to 14.00.
Summer opening hours (1 June - 30 September): Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 14:00.

What to do? ___________________________________________________________________

What should I do in my country of origin? Apply for European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

What documentation is required? An identity document.

When should I start the process? As soon as possible.

What should I do once in Catalonia? If you have not obtained an EHIC, you may be able to apply for a Temporary Replacement Certificate (TRC) from the Social Security virtual office. The TRC, which indicates a specific validity period, is an individual certificate that entitles its holder to receive healthcare subject to the same conditions that apply to the EHIC.

Where can I obtain an EHIC? You should contact the appropriate authority in your country of origin.

Updated July 2008