European Health Insurance Card ( European Health Insurance The EHIC (Emergency Health Insurance Card ) entitles you to receive emergency medical care in European Union countries under the same conditions as local residents. In Cyprus, it is valid for EU citizens and tourists from countries with which the Republic of Cyprus has international agreements. The card covers emergency medical care in the event of a sudden illness or accident, including hospital treatment, doctor’s appointments, and pharmaceutical services.
Contents
Who can use the card?
In Cyprus, the EHIC is available to the following categories:
- Citizens of EU countries residing in Cyprus have the right to obtain a card through state social security authorities.
- Foreigners working or studying in Cyprus – subject to official registration in the social security system.
- Tourists from EU countries can use a card issued in their home country for a temporary stay on the island.
The card does not cover routine medical services, private clinics, or transportation to your home country unless it is an emergency.
Registration procedure
Obtaining an EHIC in Cyprus depends on the applicant’s status. For EU citizens permanently residing on the island, the procedure is as follows:
- Registration in the social security system ( Social Insurance Services ) is a mandatory requirement for all residents. You must provide a passport, proof of residence, and, if applicable, an employment contract.
- Applying for a card – the application can be completed online through the European portal Health Insurance Card or in person at social security offices.
- Documents: passport or identity card, document confirming registration at the place of residence, insurance number in the social security system.
- Receipt times: The card is typically issued within 7-14 business days. In case of urgent need, you can request a temporary certificate valid until the plastic card is received.
For tourists and temporarily residing EU citizens, it is sufficient to have an EHIC issued in the country of residence, which is recognized in Cyprus without additional paperwork.
Cost and validity period
EHIC cards in Cyprus are free for EU residents and citizens. They are typically valid for 3–5 years, depending on the specific case and card type. After expiration, you must reapply or renew the card through the Social Security portal.
If you change your place of residence within Cyprus or your surname, you must notify the Social Insurance Office and request an updated card.
How to use the card
The EHIC allows you to receive healthcare on an equal basis with local residents, including:
- outpatient and inpatient treatment in public hospitals;
- emergency medical care in case of accidents;
- pharmaceutical services and medications prescribed by a doctor;
- laboratory and diagnostic services.
The card does not cover private clinics, preventive examinations and planned operations, for which you must pay separately or have additional insurance.
The card can be used by presenting the EHIC at the hospital or doctor’s reception desk. Proof of identity is required to receive free or partially reimbursed services.
Important recommendations
- Carry the card with you – it is necessary to present it to medical personnel in an emergency.
- Check the expiration date – an expired card does not entitle you to free treatment.
- Keep your insurance company’s contact information handy in case you have any questions or problems with reimbursement.
- Combine with travel insurance – EHIC only covers emergencies; for planned care, additional insurance is recommended.
- Keep up to date with legal updates – the rules for using the EHIC may change due to international agreements and Cyprus’s internal regulations.
Features for tourists
For short-term visitors to Cyprus, a card issued in the country of permanent residence is sufficient. EU tourists must ensure that:
- the card is valid for the entire period of stay;
- when applying to the hospital, the purpose of the visit is indicated (tourism, temporary work, study);
- receipts and checks for all paid services are kept for possible reimbursement.
The EHIC is not issued to citizens of non-EU countries. It is recommended to obtain private travel insurance to cover emergency situations.
The European Health Insurance Card in Cyprus provides access to emergency medical care under the same conditions as local residents. Residents are covered through the social security system, while tourists only need a card issued in their home country. The card is free, valid for several years, and covers essential medical services in public institutions.
Timely registration, compliance with the terms of use, and combination with additional insurance guarantee health protection and financial security during your stay in Cyprus, whether for a long-term stay or a tourist trip.
