can I apply for European Health Insurance Card after I have gone on holiday?

[novaeater]

I have only just found out about the EHIC from some people we met on holiday. Is it possible to apply online while on holiday in Eurppe and use the telephone number provided on the EHIC website if we are unfortunate to need medical treatment whilst abroad in Europe?

[Buenchico]

I doubt that you can apply from abroad online.

To check, phone the relevant number which is NOT the 0845 one. (That only works within the UK). The number you require is [phone]

[novaeater]

thank you I will phone them tomorrow

[bednobs]

tomorrow is bank holiday monday and i doubt they'll be open. I don't see why you cant apply online from abroad (perhaps there is some tecchie reason?)

[Buenchico]

Bednobs:
My answer was based, in part, upon the fact that those studying or working abroad (for a UK employer) have to apply by post. (UK citizens actually living abroad, or working for a foreign employer abroad, aren't eligible for the EHIC anyway):
http://www.nhs.uk/NHS...lyingandrenewing.aspx

However there seems to be an element of doubt, which is why I suggested making a phone call.

Chris

[jno]

I suspect they'd actually want to see your card if you needed to use it - that's what it's for. But apply anyway, it's free and you're entitled to it. I can't see any reason why you shouldn't do so online - I just have and it didn't ask what country I was in at the moment. Presumably they will only post to a UK address, though, and if you wanted one in France you might have to apply to the French equivalent of the NHS.