Using an EHIC in Malta: Healthcare Guide for European Tourists and Visitors
The EHIC is useful - but it is not travel insurance. Know exactly what it does and does not do before you need it.
Key takeaways
- An EHIC gives access to medically necessary state healthcare on the same terms as people insured in Malta.
- It does not cover private healthcare.
- It does not replace travel insurance or cover repatriation.
What the EHIC is
The European Health Insurance Card is a free card issued by your national health insurance provider in an EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland. UK residents may use a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or a valid UK EHIC for similar access to state healthcare in the EU.
What it can cover
According to the European Commission, the card gives access to medically necessary, state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay, under the same conditions and at the same cost as people insured in that country. “Medically necessary” means care that cannot reasonably wait until you return home, judged by the treating clinician.
What it does not replace
- Travel insurance.
- Private healthcare costs.
- The cost of flying you home (repatriation).
- Treatment when travelling for the purpose of receiving care.
- Lost or stolen property.
Private treatment
The EHIC applies to state healthcare only. Private consultations - including at private GP clinics such as Doctor St Julian’s Clinic - are not covered by the EHIC. You would normally pay directly and may be able to claim from your travel insurance, depending on your policy.
Travel insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance can cover private treatment, repatriation and other costs the EHIC does not. Read your policy, note the emergency assistance number, and contact your insurer as early as possible if you need treatment.
Documents to bring
- Your valid EHIC or GHIC (check the expiry date).
- Passport or national ID.
- Travel insurance details.
- Copies of prescriptions and a list of regular medicines.
Emergency care
In an emergency, call 112. Show your EHIC at the hospital to access state emergency treatment on local terms.
This information cannot diagnose your symptoms or replace individual medical advice. For a medical emergency in Malta, call 112.
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Sources and references
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