The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for Residents of Leiden
For residents of Leiden, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides essential protection during short stays in another EU country or a country with a social security agreement. This card allows Leiden residents to access medical care as if they were insured in the destination country, preventing unexpected expenses. It is indispensable for holidaymakers or business travelers from Leiden who suddenly require medical attention.
What Is the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?
The EHIC, also known as the European Health Insurance Card, is a chip card the size of a credit card that proves you are insured through a Dutch health insurer. Leiden residents can use it to access care in countries of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and other nations with reciprocal agreements, such as Australia or Balkan states. The card is free of charge and replaces the former E111 and E128 forms.
Note: The EHIC applies only to temporary travel, such as weekend trips or business outings, and does not cover emigration or long-term work abroad. For such cases, alternatives like the S1 form are available. Coverage is limited to medically necessary emergency treatments that are locally standard but excludes repatriation or non-urgent dental care.
Legal Basis of the EHIC
The EHIC is governed by Regulation (EC) No. 883/2004 of the European Parliament and Council, which coordinates social security systems in the EU and ensures equal rights. In the Netherlands, this is embedded in the Dutch Health Insurance Act (Zorgverzekeringswet, Zvw), particularly in Article 50 et seq., which regulates mandatory insurance and cross-border care. Leiden residents can seek clarification on these laws at Het Juridisch Loket Leiden.
Regulation (EC) No. 987/2009 outlines the practical implementation, including the issuance of the EHIC. For non-EU countries like Switzerland, the Copenhagen Convention applies. Thanks to these rules, your Dutch insurer covers the costs, which are later reimbursed to the foreign authorities.
How to Apply for the EHIC in Leiden?
Every resident of Leiden with a basic health insurance plan is eligible for the EHIC. Apply through your insurer by following these steps:
- Call, chat, or log in to your insurer’s website.
- Request the EHIC; no travel details are required, as the card is valid by default.
- Receive the card for free by post within five business days; in urgent cases, print a temporary version via your insurer’s online portal.
Families in Leiden can request multiple cards in a single application, including for children under 18. The validity period is five years—always verify this before your trip. For insurance-related questions, consult Het Juridisch Loket Leiden for free advice.
Rights and Obligations with the EHIC
With the EHIC, Leiden residents are entitled to:
- Emergency medical care: Including hospital admissions, doctor consultations, and prescribed medications covered locally.
- Equal access: You follow the same rules as local residents, subject to potential waiting times.
- Cost settlement: The care provider bills the local authority, or you pay upfront and claim reimbursement from your Dutch insurer.
Your obligations include:
- Always present the card when seeking care; without it, you may have to pay yourself.
- Use the EHIC only for short-term stays; misuse may result in penalties.
- Submit claims promptly upon returning home and retain receipts for reimbursement.
The EHIC does not cover private treatments or non-essential care. For repatriation or routine dental care, a travel insurance policy is required. In Leiden, the Municipality of Leiden can provide additional local care advice.
Practical Examples of Using the EHIC
For example, a Leiden family on vacation in Italy falls ill. With the EHIC, you can visit a public hospital without an upfront payment; costs are billed to your Dutch insurer. Or during a cycling trip in Germany: a fall results in a doctor’s visit, covered as in the Netherlands, minus the Dutch excess of €385.
Post-Brexit, the EHIC remains valid in the UK under temporary arrangements, but verify this. For a Balkan trip: in Slovenia (EU), the card covers an emergency consultation, but in Bosnia (non-EU), additional documentation may be required.
Differences Between EHIC and Travel Insurance
The EHIC complements travel insurance but does not cover everything. Comparison:
| Aspect | EHIC | Travel Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Essential care in EU/EEA | Comprehensive: evacuation, luggage, cancellations |
| Costs | Free, subject to excess | Premium-based, often with no excess for medical expenses |
| Validity | Short-term stays | All trips, internationally |
| Required? | Essential for EU trips | For full coverage |
Travel insurance protects against EHIC exclusions, such as medical evacuation to Leiden.
Frequently Asked Questions About the EHIC
What if my EHIC expires during my trip?
Contact your insurer immediately for a digital replacement or emergency certificate. In Leiden, Het Juridisch Loket Leiden can assist with claims or disputes.