ehic travel card

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UK launches Global Health Insurance Card

New agreement ensures the rights of UK residents to access emergency and medically necessary care when travelling in the EU will continue.

UK’s new Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) launched as part of UK–EU deal

Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) will gradually replace existing European Health Insurance Cards ( EHIC )

UK residents will now be able to apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ), the government announced today.

Under Britain’s new agreement with the EU, UK residents’ rights to emergency and medically necessary healthcare will continue when travelling in the EU. This includes medically necessary treatment for a pre-existing or chronic condition.

Current European Health Insurance Cards ( EHIC ) are valid as long as they are in date and people can continue to use these when travelling to the EU.

The public only need to apply for their new GHIC when their current EHIC expires. Both cards will offer equivalent protection for emergency and medically necessary healthcare needs when in the EU on a temporary stay, which includes holiday, study and business travel.

The new GHIC card is free to obtain from the official GHIC website . People should apply at least 2 weeks before they plan to travel to ensure their card arrives on time.

Minister for Health Edward Argar said:

Our deal with the EU ensures the right for our citizens to access necessary healthcare on their holidays and travels to countries in the EU will continue. The GHIC is a key element of the UK’s future relationship with the EU and will provide certainty and security for all UK residents.

Cover for emergency and medically necessary healthcare is part of a wider healthcare agreement struck with the EU that will see continued cooperation on healthcare for UK residents.

If a UK resident is travelling without a card, they are still entitled to necessary healthcare and should contact the NHS Business Services Authority ( NHS BSA ) (which covers the whole of the UK), who can arrange for payment should they require treatment when abroad.

EU member state EHICs will continue to be accepted by the NHS.

Alongside the deal with the EU, the UK is open to agreeing further reciprocal healthcare arrangements that can support UK residents when they travel.

The government always advises that anyone travelling overseas, whether to the EU or elsewhere in the world, should take out comprehensive travel insurance. 

Background information

All UK residents are eligible to apply for a GHIC which will be valid and recognised in the EU.

GHIC is free via the official website . Any sites which include a charging fee are in no way affiliated with the official NHSBSA GHIC service.

The government recognises sensitivities around flags in Northern Ireland. As such, residents in Northern Ireland will be provided with an option to choose an alternative version of the GHIC card, which they will be able to apply for shortly. Keep checking  www.nhs.uk/ GHIC  for updates.

Under existing Common Travel Area arrangements with Ireland, UK residents will continue to be able to access necessary healthcare in Ireland by showing proof of residency documentation (such as a UK driving licence, a biometric residence permit, or a Northern Irish medical card) or EHIC or GHIC as used elsewhere in the EU.

The GHIC covers medically necessary state-provided healthcare at a reduced cost or, in many cases, free of charge, until your planned return home.

A temporary stay is a period during which you are staying in a place other than the one where you usually live and you do not move your ‘centre of interest’ there. For example, this can include holiday, study and business travel.

Necessary healthcare means healthcare that becomes medically necessary during your stay and for which you cannot reasonably wait until you’re back in the UK to get. This includes medically necessary treatment for a pre-existing or chronic condition. Some treatments will need to be pre-arranged with the relevant healthcare provider in the country you’re visiting, for example kidney dialysis or chemotherapy.

Necessary healthcare does not include healthcare that you travel specifically to receive, although individuals who want to seek planned treatment in a member state may be covered under the broader healthcare arrangements with the EU. Read more information on planned treatments .

If a UK resident requires emergency or medically necessary treatment while in the EU, and doesn’t have a GHIC or EHIC , a Provisional Replacement Certificate ( PRC ) can be obtained which will provide the same coverage for healthcare as GHIC or EHIC . The PRC can only be requested at the point of requiring care; it’s not possible to request a PRC in advance of a trip. UK nationals can contact NHSBSA on +44 (0)191 218 1999 should a PRC be required.

UK nationals living in the EU, EEA and Switzerland and EU, EEA and Swiss nationals living in the UK, who are eligible under the Citizens’ Rights Agreement for reciprocal healthcare based on current EU regulations, can continue to apply for an EHIC .

The UK is seeking to conclude new, comprehensive agreements on social security coordination, including reciprocal healthcare, with the EEA EFTA States and with Switzerland.

Until a new agreement is in place, the UK and Norway will apply, on a temporary basis, an amended version of the 1991 Convention on Social Security and Protocol on Medical Treatment between the governments of the UK and Norway. This includes necessary healthcare.

The rest-of-the-world (RoW) countries we currently have reciprocal healthcare agreements with are Australia, New Zealand, some Crown Dependencies and overseas territories (such as Isle of Mann, Jersey, Gibraltar), and some Balkan states (Bosnia, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo). Different proofs of eligibility are required under these agreement. Read more travel advice information .

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Healthcare abroad

Advice about healthcare if you're planning to visit or move to another country.

Get healthcare cover abroad with a UK GHIC or UK EHIC

Find out if you’re eligible to apply for a new UK EHIC or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)

Going abroad for treatment

Things to consider if you want or need medical treatment in Europe

Moving abroad

Advice about planning your healthcare if you're going to move or study abroad

Government advice about healthcare abroad

• GOV.UK: Healthcare for UK nationals visiting the EU
• GOV.UK: Healthcare agreements with non-EU countries

Where you can use your card

There are 2 types of cards available for healthcare cover when you’re travelling abroad. You can apply for either: 

• a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
• a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

These both provide the same cover, but the countries they are valid in can change.

If you need temporary cover for emergency treatment abroad and do not have one of these cards, you can apply for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) . A PRC gives you the same cover as a UK GHIC or UK EHIC would entitle you to, but you cannot apply for this in advance.

The following French Overseas Territories also accept UK GHICs and UK EHICs:

• French Guiana
• Saint-Martin

For more information on what is covered in the country you're visiting, check the guidance on the GOV.UK website . 

A UK EHIC or UK GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. It may not cover all health costs and never covers repatriation costs. Make sure you have travel insurance as well as a UK EHIC or UK GHIC.

Which countries are in the EU

The EU countries are:

• Republic of Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands

Using your card in Switzerland

You can only use your card in Switzerland if you're a:

• UK national
• Swiss national
• citizen of an EU country
• stateless person
• family member, dependant, or survivor of someone who holds one of these nationalities or statuses

You may be asked for proof of your nationality or your status when using your card in Switzerland.

Information for overseas students

If you’re a student studying in the EU or Switzerland:

• both a UK GHIC and a new UK EHIC will cover you for necessary state-provided healthcare within the EU and Switzerland, including your country of study
• you will not be able to use either card for treatment in Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Norway

If you’re a student studying in Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Norway:

• a new UK EHIC will cover you for necessary state-provided healthcare in your country of study and when visiting EU countries or Switzerland
• a UK GHIC will cover you for necessary state-provided healthcare when visiting the EU or Switzerland - you will not be able to use your card for treatment in your country of study

If you’re a national of a European Economic Area (EEA) country and lived in the UK before 31 December 2020, a UK EHIC will cover necessary state-funded healthcare in all EEA countries.

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EHIC expiring soon? Apply for your UK GHIC now

The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) following the UK’s exit from the EU.

More than 600,000 EHICs will expire between now and the end of 2022.

You can continue to use your EHIC until its expiry date. However, if your EHIC expires in the next six months, apply for your UK GHIC now and have it ready for your next holiday.

Whilst the government advises that you should always get travel insurance too, it’s worth having a UK GHIC. You can use your card to access medically necessary state-provided healthcare during your trip. Medically necessary healthcare includes things like:

• emergency treatment and visits to A&E
• treatment for a long-term or pre-existing medical condition
• routine medical care for pre-existing conditions that need monitoring
• routine maternity care, as long as you're not  going abroad to give birth
• oxygen therapy and kidney dialysis

You can use your UK GHIC, and your existing EHIC if it’s still in date, while visiting:

• a European Union (EU) country
• Switzerland

A UK GHIC may also become valid in more countries in the future so make sure you check www.nhs.uk/ghic before you travel.

Remember that the card may not cover all healthcare costs and you may have to pay for some services that you would get free on the NHS at home. Cards never cover repatriation costs.

Contact Information

Stuart hand.

Media and Campaigns Officer

NHS Business Services Authority

[email protected]

Helping you make the most out of your money

Searching Money Mentor . . .

‘i have an ehic card, do i still need travel insurance’.

| Columnist

Updated January 11, 2024

In this guide

If you’ve not travelled in a while then prepare yourself, because a lot has changed . From EHIC cards to travel insurance, here’s what you need to know.

Post-Brexit, a number of benefits we took for granted as part of the European Union have gone. For the average tourist , most of these changes will be minor grumbles but you may have been left wondering if your European Health Insurance Card or EHIC card is still valid.

Saving the impact of Brexit for a heated debate at the pub, let’s look at the things you’ll need to consider if you’re heading to Europe this summer. From EHIC cards to GHIC cards and travel insurance, I explain how it all works.

Read more: Best travel insurance providers

Are EHIC cards still valid ?

You may still be in possession of an EHIC card. EHIC gave UK travellers access to limited cover for health issues when visiting the EU. It also gave access to limited health cover in a few other countries like Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein.

I never went on holiday without my EHIC card. Aside from being free (always a good thing) the card let you qualify for a range of hospital treatments in the EU in most non-private facilities. What precisely the card covered you for varied from country to country though as a (very) general rule, you qualified for some state healthcare free or at a reduced cost.

Often, an EHIC card meant that minor treatments could go ahead sometimes without the need to make an insurance claim. You could easily prove you were entitled to treatment if you had your card with you.

Now that we’ve left the EU, the EHIC card will eventually cease to exist. Check the expiry date on the card – yours will be valid until that date. It’s all rather complicated, but if you renewed your EHIC before the end of 2020 the British government negotiated an agreement where the card would still be valid. However, if you’re travelling to Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, it isn’t.  

If you’ve got an E111 card, you need to clean out your drawers more! This is a predecessor to the EHIC and is long gone.

Read more: UK passport renewal times and costs

What if my EHIC card has expired?

If your EHIC has gone past its use-by date, you can take out its replacement, the Global Health Insurance Card.

This operates in a similar way to the EHIC – but there are a number of variations depending on the country you are visiting. Find out more on the government’s website.

Don’t be fooled by that “global” in the title, though. There is not much information about non-EU countries in the government guidance and you’d have to be bonkers to go to somewhere like America without a fully comprehensive insurance policy.

How do I apply for a GHIC?

A GHIC card is free and relatively easy to apply for. The current timescale for delivery is about 20 days, so it may not be quite the ten weeks that the Passport Office has been telling its customers.

However, you can put in an application for a GHIC if your old card has less than six months on it – and it’s worth doing as soon as you can; there is a warning on the website that delays may occur due to “exceptional demand”.

You can apply for free on the NHS website – you’ll need your national insurance number to hand.

Each member of the family needs to have their own card, though you need to be over 16 to apply personally. You can pop in applications for younger children as dependants when sorting out your own GHIC, though you’ll get a card for each person (so take them all). 

Your GHIC will last for five years, so stick a diary reminder in for a few months before the renewal date on the card.

Read more: What are my flight refund rights?

My GHIC card hasn’t arrived

A lot of readers have contacted me to say that their new GHIC hasn’t arrived on time and they are about to go on holiday.

If your EHIC is still valid and the country you are going to accepts it, then you should be fine. But once again – and I cannot emphasise this enough – you must consider taking out travel insurance regardless, as even the best EHIC/GHIC cover is not nearly enough to fully pay for many medical emergencies or treatment.

Beware of the scammers

Depressingly, where there’s a chance to make a quick buck, there are scammers. Some websites are outright fakes, designed just to pinch your details. However, others are “legitimate” businesses – meaning only that they aren’t breaking any specific laws – that masquerade as the official site for processing GHIC applications. And instead of being full-on scams, they charge a fee – a fee for something that is supposed to be free.

If you look at the wording on these sites, they are actually charging you for “proofreading the application” or “reminding you of your renewal date”. If you are asked to enter in bank details, you know you are not on the right website.

Fake websites also operate in areas like passport or driving licence applications and for things like US visas.

I’m going to get on my soapbox here once again and question why on earth this is allowed to happen. Search engines often allow these businesses to climb up the online rankings or in the past have allowed them to pay for advertisements that make them look like the real deal. These firms are immoral and manipulative. But they are being enabled by the big tech firms who despite numerous warnings have not cracked down on them. It’s time they were forced to do so. But for now, be wary.

EHIC and GHIC cards v travel insurance

It’s important to note that the EHIC and GHIC cards have never been intended as a replacement for a travel insurance policy, which can be invaluable if you are going on holiday as costs for many treatments can be astronomical.

Your health insurance card provides only limited protection – as the NHS website points out: “It may not cover all health costs and never covers repatriation costs.” So just think about what you might be looking at if you break your leg on a ski run. It’s not only the medical costs you may need to consider but those for transporting you back home.

Travel insurance policies have been through considerable upheaval in recent years. The industry has had to adapt to mass claims for holidays that couldn’t be taken because of the pandemic.

Standard travel policies might have changed a lot since you last bought one. So, you should familiarise yourself with the key facts and what you’re paying for.

Don’t forget to take the documents with you when you travel – and keep the emergency claim number and your policy number on your phone or email so you can locate it quickly if you need it. I’d photograph the details too so you have them to hand.

If you are buying a policy, you may want to ensure that it starts from the moment of purchase. A lot can go wrong in the run up to the holiday so if you can’t travel for any reasons, you’ll want to at least have a sporting chance of getting your money back through a claim.

While some insurance is better than no insurance, beware policies bought at the airport. These tend to have significant limitations in comparison to comprehensive ones. 

Important information

Some of the products promoted are from our affiliate partners from whom we receive compensation. While we aim to feature some of the best products available, we cannot review every product on the market.

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If you’re looking to escape the UK winter, or if you’re saving your holiday for the height of summer, you may wish to consider travel insurance. We explain what travel insurance is and some of the best policies on the market for your holiday. In 2022, UK residents made 71 million visits abroad. This was […]

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Everything you need to know about the Ghic, the post-Brexit health insurance card

Holding this card – which does not cost anything – means british travellers to the european union get free or discounted medical treatment, article bookmarked.

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Since the EU referendum in 2016, there has been a great deal of uncertainty about whether the free healthcare on offer to British travellers to Europe will continue after the Brexit transition phase ends.

The free European Health Insurance Card (Ehic) is being phased out, replaced by the Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic) – which is also free. Those already holding Ehics can continue to use them as normal, as both cards entitle the holder to free or discounted medical care in EU countries and Switzerland (though stricter conditions apply for the latter). However, check your Ehic is still in date – millions are set to expire during 2023. If you don’t have an Ehic, you’ll need to apply for a Ghic.

A  brief history of the Ehic

British travellers have long benefited from free or very low-cost medical treatment in some other countries – initially through reciprocal agreements and later, after the UK joined the then-EEC in 1973, with a Europe-wide agreement.

• Only EU citizens who live in the UK will keep reciprocal health care
• EHIC health care and no passports to Ireland signalled by Brexit deal
• Government to review EHIC applications after 'health tourism' claims

For decades the document for travellers was known as the E111, and was available from social-security offices.

In 2004, the European Union introduced the Ehic as a card demonstrating entitlement to medical care on the same basis as local people. It is available free to EU citizens, including (after Brexit) those living in the UK.

What exactly has changed since Brexit?

Perhaps oddly: British travellers have lost reciprocity with three non-EU members – Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein – but not with the EU27 or Switzerland.  The UK and European Union will continue to offer “benefits in kind” to a citizen from the other side if those benefits “become necessary on medical grounds during their stay”. In other words: need health care? You’ve got it.

It’s important not to equate entitlement with possession of a valid European Health Insurance Card. The Ehic is simply an easy way to demonstrate that you qualify for treatment.

How do I get one?

Do not apply if you have a valid Ehic. 

You can apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic) on the NHS portal previously used for Ehic applications or by calling on 0300 330 1350.  The card is free. Do not use any third-party sites: they are likely to charge a fee.

Can I still apply for an Ehic renewal?

You can try and apply to renew it – but you’ll be redirected to apply for a Ghic, as that has now replaced the Ehics.

What do I if I have no valid card?

The EU says: “If the need arises, you will still receive the treatment necessary to enable you to continue your holiday without having to return home for treatment.”

If you have an existing Ehic, it will continue to be valid until its expiry date. If yours has run out, or you never had one, you are still entitled to care.

For treatment abroad, you are required to apply for a provisional replacement certificate (PRC). This is confirmation by the NHS that you are entitled to health care.

To get one, you, or a companion or family member, need to call NHS Overseas Healthcare Services on +44 191 218 1999 during working hours (Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm).

You must have your National Insurance number and the name of the hospital or other medical facility that is currently treating you. The certificate will then be emailed (or, quaintly, faxed) to the clinicians.

What treatment is covered? 

All emergency care, including issues arising from pregnancy – but not if you have gone abroad specifically to give birth.

In addition, pre-arranged medical treatment for specific conditions – notably kidney dialysis, oxygen therapy and chemotherapy – is covered, as before.

Note that only the EU27 countries and Switzerland are covered – ie not Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, which are members of the Schengen Area but not the European Union.

Does the agreement cover medical repatriation?

No. It is solely for easier access to medical treatment. There is no provision for taking you home free of charge if you fall seriously ill or suffer a serious accident. Only travel insurance will cover that.

One additional benefit of the decision to continue reciprocal health care is that travel insurance premiums are unlikely to rise significantly.

Is Ghic an alternative to travel insurance?

Travel insurance offers far more benefits besides local health care, including cover for cancellations, loss or theft and, in extreme cases, medical evacuation. The government warns: “Ehic and Ghic do not replace travel insurance.”

Abta, the travel association, goes even further, warning: “Taking out travel insurance is crucial when you book your holiday, whether it’s a domestic break or overseas.”

But older travellers, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions, might rationally decide not to insure for journeys to locations covered by the Ghic – if they are prepared to self-insure for other risks. Note that medical repatriation by air usually costs tens of thousands of pounds.

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The European Health Insurance Card

What is the european health insurance card, can i get a european health insurance card, where can i use it, what does it cover, how to apply, how do i renew my card, if you are visiting ireland and need health care.

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows you to access public healthcare in another EU/EEA state for free or at a reduced rate. You can use it when you are travelling abroad or when you are staying temporarily in another EU State.

Essential points about the card

• Each family member needs their own card.
• It lasts for up to 4 years.
• You will need to apply to renew your card and you can renew online .
• When abroad, always carry your EHIC with you.
• It will not cover you for healthcare outside of the EU, other than Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein (EEA) and Switzerland.
• It does not cover private healthcare.
• It used to be called the E111 form.

You can apply:

• In person : at any local health office except, Cork South Lee, Dublin North West, Dublin South, Kildare and West Wicklow.
• By post : Print out an application form and post it to your local health office along with any documents required.
• Online: Apply through the HSE website if you have a medical card or drug payment scheme card and you live in Ireland.

You can only apply for a European Health Insurance Card:

• If you live in Ireland
• If you live in another European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) member state, or Switzerland

If you live in Ireland but you are linked to another EU/EEA State's Social Security System, contact the health authorities in that country for more information.

If you live in Northern Ireland but are employed in Ireland, you can get an Irish-issued EHIC.

Frontier workers (or cross-border workers ) can get an Irish-issued EHIC because they make social security contributions in Ireland. They must return home at least once a week to qualify.

Student dependants of frontier workers can get an Irish-issued EHIC. They must be aged 18 to 23 years, studying in the EU/EEA or Switzerland and have a completed School or College Details form (pdf) .

If you live in another EU/EEA member state or Switzerland

If you live in the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you are entitled to an Irish-issued EHIC if any of the following apply.

• You receive a state pension from Ireland and have an Irish-issued E Form/S1 form (certificate of entitlement) registered in your country of residence.
• You work for an Irish employer and are posted to work in another EU/EEA country or Switzerland.
• You are a frontier worker (cross-border worker) living in the EU/EEA and working in Ireland.
• You are a family member of a posted worker of someone working in Ireland, and you are not covered in your own right by the EU/EEA country you live in.

If you are resident in another EU/EEA member state , you will need to complete a different application form online , by email or by post.

If you are not eligible for an Irish-issued EHIC, you should see if you are eligible for an EHIC in the country you are currently living in.

EU and Europe

You can use your European Health Insurance Card in any European Union or European Economic Area (EEA) country and in Switzerland. Currently, the EEA comprises of the 27 member states of the European Union together with Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein.

As Andorra and Monaco are not part of the EU or EEA, your EHIC is not accepted there. You should get private health insurance instead.

Find out where you can use your EHIC and how to access healthcare abroad .

If you are an Irish citizen, you have access to healthcare under the Common Travel Area while visiting the UK. However, other EU citizens should continue to use the EHIC, which is still accepted in the UK.

Outside the EU

If you are travelling outside the EU/EEA, you should get private health insurance instead.

Will I have to pay anything for healthcare with my EHIC?

In some EU member states you may have to make some payment towards the cost of the services you receive, just as people in that state do. You will not receive a re-fund for this or for private healthcare.

How can I get a refund from the HSE if I paid for healthcare while abroad?

You may be able to get a refund if you had to pay because you did not have your EHIC card with you or because the healthcare providers charged you by mistake.

Apply for a refund by email. Send your receipts to [email protected] . Or email them to [email protected] if you live in Dublin, Wicklow or Kildare.

The HSE will send an E126 form to the health authorities in the other state to find out:

• If you used a public health service
• How much of a refund is due

When the HSE receive the completed E126 form from the other state, the HSE can see if a refund is due or not. Further information is available on the HSE website .

What if I don't have my EHIC before I travel?

If you don't have your European Health Insurance Card for any reason, you can get a Temporary Replacement Certificate. This Certificate gives you the same entitlement as the Card, but for a shorter period.

You can apply online for this Certificate, in-person or by post to your Local Health Office. You can only receive a Temporary Replacement Certificate for yourself.

Should I get private travel insurance too?

You should consider it. Your EHIC just covers medical costs. Travel insurance can cover you for cancellation and lost or stolen luggage and extras like winter sports cover.

How much does a European Health Insurance Card cost?

There is no fee for the European Health Insurance Card or a Temporary Replacement Certificate. Renewing a European Health Insurance Card is also free.

Before you travel, apply for an EHIC well in advance of your trip.

If you are living in Ireland

• If you are an Irish citizen, an Irish pensioner or an EU citizen living in Ireland you can apply for an EHIC:
• In person at your local health office
• Online - if you have a medical card or drug payment scheme card and you live in Ireland

You will be asked for proof that you live in Ireland. Your card will be posted out to you within approximately 10 working days.

Apply by post

There are two steps :

• Download and complete the European Health Insurance Card application form (pdf) .
• Send the completed form to your Local Health Office. If you can’t download the form, you can get an application from your Local Health Office . You should send your application well in advance of your trip.

You must apply to renew your Card as they are not reissued automatically when they expire. You will need your old EHIC number and your PPS number.

If you have changed your address or your name, you will need to contact your Local Health Office . You should apply well in advance of the date you plan to travel.

Apply to renew your European Health Insurance Card online .

• Select Renew Current Card at the top of the screen.
• Enter the 10-digit ID number on your expired Card. This number is on the front of the card at the bottom left.
• Confirm the address to which the Card will be sent. It should confirm that your application is successful and that a card is being sent out to you.

If you have an EHIC and are visiting Ireland, you can:

• Receive necessary family doctor (GP) services
• Receive emergency dental treatment for the relief of pain and urgent dental repairs

You can call the emergency services on 999 or 112 free of charge.

Go to the HSE website for more information.

Related documents

• Hepatitis C and the Health Amendment Act Card Services that are available to people who contracted Hepatitis C through the use of Human Immunoglobulin-Anti-D or through receiving blood products or blood transfusions in Ireland. 1538.8715
• Returning to Ireland and buying private health insurance Outlines things you should consider when buying private health insurance as a returning Irish emigrant. Covers waiting periods, pre-existing conditions, age-related loading and maternity related claims. 1470.7942
• Private health insurance Introduction to private health insurance and the rules that apply to insurance providers. 1401.8995

If you have a question about this topic you can contact the Citizens Information Phone Service on 0818 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm).

You can also contact your local Citizens Information Centre .

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Free or reduced cost healthcare when travelling in Europe

• Apply for an EHIC in Ireland
• Renew or replace an EHIC
• Contact an EHIC office
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MORE FROM VAULT

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Credit Card Review 2024: Earn up to 5X Points on Travel Purchases

Lee Huffman

Credit Cards Expert

Lee Huffman spent 18 years as a financial planner and corporate finance manager before quitting his corporate job to write full-time in 2018. He has been writing about early retirement, credit cards, travel, insurance and other personal finance topics since 2012. Lee enjoys showing people how to travel more, spend less and live better by taking control of their finances. When Lee is not getting his passport stamped around the world, he’s researching methods to earn more miles and points toward his next vacation.

His writing can be found on many popular travel and personal finance websites such as The Points Guy, U.S. News, Forbes and NerdWallet. You can follow Lee’s travels at BaldThoughts.com or listen to his weekly travel podcast at WeTravelThere.com.

Claire Dickey

Senior Editor

Claire is a senior editor at Newsweek focused on credit cards, loans and banking. Her top priority is providing unbiased, in-depth personal finance content to ensure readers are well-equipped with knowledge when making financial decisions. 

Prior to Newsweek, Claire spent five years at Bankrate as a lead credit cards editor. You can find her jogging through Austin, TX, or playing tourist in her free time.

Updated April 24, 2024 at 2:14 pm

Understanding the value of cash back is simple, but valuing airline miles or points redeemable for travel requires digging a bit deeper. At Newsweek, we’ve developed a common language to talk about the value of points and miles: our valuations.

Our valuations translate points into dollars and cents in a way that reflects reality. They are based on actual data across a balance of accessible redemption options, not just the aspirational first and business class redemptions that require a PhD in miles and points to book. The upshot is that our valuations help you understand the actual value you can easily get from your miles and points.

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

Wells Fargo’s new travel rewards card earns up to 5X points on travel-related purchases.

Expert Take : The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Visa® Card is an excellent choice for travelers who want to maximize rewards on travel purchases booked directly with airlines, hotels and other providers. While it has an annual fee, the $50 annual flight credit covers more than half of the cost. It also includes complimentary travel protections and cell phone insurance to cover unexpected situations.

• Earns up to 5X points on travel-related purchases
• $50 annual flight credit with a minimum $50 airline purchase
• Flexible rewards redemptions include transfers to airline and hotel partners
• Missing bonus categories on everyday purchases, like gas and groceries
• Does not include an intro APR offer on purchases or balance transfers
• Current list of transfer partners is smaller than competitors

Vault’s Viewpoint on Wells Fargo’s Autograph Journey Card

As competitors like Chase, Amex and Capital One gained legions of loyal followers, Wells Fargo missed out on the growth because of its meager credit card lineup. With the introduction of the Autograph Journey credit card and transferable points, Wells Fargo is taking a huge step forward.

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card is designed with travelers in mind by earning 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines and 3X points on dining and all other travel purchases. With the introduction of transferable points, cardholders can redeem for cash back, travel, gift cards and more or transfer points to a growing list of Wells Fargo airline and hotel partners. Plus, it includes a $50 annual statement credit toward airline purchases. Travelers are also covered with an array of travel protections and cell phone insurance in case something goes wrong.

About the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Travel Credit Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey credit card builds upon the success of the original Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card , as it also earns flexible points but with a focus on travel and dining purchases.

With the Autograph Journey, you’ll earn up to 5X points on travel-related purchases and an unlimited 3X points on dining worldwide. The card includes an annual flight credit that’s good on any airline, without having to choose an airline ahead of time. When you book trips with the Autograph Journey Card, you’ll receive valuable travel benefits to protect your trip, like rental car protection, trip cancellation/interruption protection, lost baggage reimbursement and more. Your cell phone is also covered up to $1,000, up to two times per 12-month period, when you pay the bill with your Autograph Journey Card (subject to a $25 deductible).

As a new cardholder, you can earn 60,000 bonus points by spending at least $4,000 on purchases within the first three months. These points are worth $600 toward travel and have numerous redemption options, including booking flights and hotels, getting cash back or buying gift cards. Wells Fargo also introduced transfer partners in April 2024, so you can transfer points to airlines and hotels to book award reservations worth potentially even more.

Benefits of the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card

In this Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card review, you’ll learn about the card’s numerous benefits and how they can improve your travel experience.

Earning Power

People who love to travel can maximize their rewards with the Autograph Journey Card. This card’s bonus categories target the areas where travelers spend the most—flights, hotels, dining and other travel purchases.

Flexible Redemptions and Transfer Partners

The points earned from the Autograph Journey credit card have multiple redemption options. You can redeem them as a credit to your Wells Fargo credit card statement, as a deposit to your Wells Fargo bank account or to reduce your Wells Fargo mortgage balance. Points can be used to pay for online shopping or to buy gift cards. You can also book travel through Wells Fargo.

As of April 2024, Wells Fargo introduced hotel and airline transfer partners. The initial partners include:

• Choice Privileges®
• Air France-KLM Flying Blue
• Avianca LifeMiles
• British Airways Executive Club
• Aer Lingus AerClub
• Iberia Plus

Wells Fargo plans to expand this lineup to offer even more transfer opportunities to cardholders.

$50 Annual Airline Credit

Each year, you’ll receive a statement credit of $50 when you make an airline purchase of $50 or more. Unlike some airline credits, these can be used to buy airfare as well—and you don’t have to choose an airline ahead of time. Qualifying purchases include airfare, upgrades, checked baggage, change fees and more. So, whether you’re booking a flight or paying for a fee related to a flight you’re taking, this annual airline credit has your back.

Travel Protections

The best-laid travel plans can easily go astray when your flight is canceled, your bag is lost or something happens to your rental car. Your trip is covered when you use the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Visa to book your reservations. Trip cancellation and interruption protection covers you up to $15,000 for lodging, flights and activities when your trip is canceled or interrupted for a covered reason.

If your checked or carry-on luggage is lost or stolen during transit, you’re covered for up to $3,000 per trip. Additionally, your rental car is protected against damage or theft with secondary rental car insurance. The card also comes with up to $1,000,000 in travel accident insurance, travel and emergency services assistance, roadside dispatch and more.

Cell phone Insurance

When you pay your cell phone bill with the Autograph Journey Card, you’re covered for up to $1,000 in cell phone insurance (up to two claims per 12-month period). This coverage protects you against damage, theft or loss, and it requires a simple $25 deductible.

Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection

As a Visa Signature credit card, this Wells Fargo credit card includes access to the Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection. Book a stay at one of the participating hotels to receive benefits similar to those who have elite status. Benefits include the best available rate guarantee, complimentary room upgrade (when available), complimentary breakfast for two, VIP guest status, late checkout upon request (when available) and a $25 food and beverage credit. Select hotels offer additional perks like a free hotel night, resort credits and more.

Autograph Card Exclusives

Eligible Wells Fargo cardholders also have access to Autograph Card Exclusives. These live, intimate events feature a limited number of tickets available exclusively to cardholders to purchase. Events occur throughout the U.S., and available artists and experiences change during the year.

Who Is the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card Best For?

The Autograph Journey from Wells Fargo is best for travelers who want to maximize rewards on travel purchases. This card’s bonus categories center around travel and dining, and it doesn’t require cardholders to book through the bank’s travel portal to earn maximum rewards. This card allows you to book directly with airlines, hotels and other travel providers to earn credit card rewards and perks from the loyalty programs.

While the card has a $95 annual fee, it is offset by its yearly $50 credit toward airline purchases. Simply book flights of $50 or more to automatically receive the statement credit on your next bill. The card’s complimentary travel protections and cell phone insurance also provide peace of mind for frequent travelers and people whose cell phone is an indispensable part of their daily lives.

Travelers who want to earn flexible rewards points that can transfer to airline and hotel loyalty programs will also be excited about this new Wells Fargo credit card . The Autograph Journey launches with five airline partners and one hotel partner. While this total is smaller than competing brands, Wells Fargo is working to expand its list of transfer partners, and more brands will be added throughout the year.

Who Should Consider an Alternative to the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card?

While the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey has much to offer, it may not be the right card for every traveler. Wells Fargo intends to add more transfer partners over time, but some consumers may not want to wait that long or roll the dice that new partners will be among their preferred brands. Consumers who want access to a greater array of transfer partners should look at alternatives from Chase , Citi, Capital One or American Express , since each of those programs has 14 or more partners to choose from.

Having access to TSA PreCheck or Global Entry while traveling is a huge timesaver. The Autograph Journey credit card does not offer reimbursement for these Trusted Traveler application fees. Some travel credit cards at the same price point, like the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card or the United℠ Explorer Card (whose benefit also applies to the NEXUS program), include reimbursement once every four years.

How Does the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card Stack Up to Its Competitors?

Before applying for the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card, compare it to these popular travel credit cards to decide which one is best for your wallet.

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey vs Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is a solid travel credit card that earns Ultimate Rewards points. With this card, you’ll earn 5X points on travel when booking through Chase Travel and 2X points on other travel purchases, such as when purchasing directly with the airline, hotel or other provider. The Autograph Journey doesn’t require you to book through its portal to earn its top rewards rates and earns 50% more points on all other travel purchases. The Sapphire Preferred also earns 3X points on dining, select streaming services and on online groceries (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs), while the Autograph Journey earns 3X points only on dining.

When you redeem Ultimate Rewards points, you’ll get 25% more value when booking travel through Chase Travel. This extra value means you’ll redeem fewer points than booking similar travel through Wells Fargo. There are also 14 Chase airline and hotel partners , which is nearly three times as many options, and it features well-known domestic brands like United, Southwest, Hyatt and Marriott.

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey vs. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

With the Capital One Venture Rewards Card , you’ll earn an unlimited 2X miles on every purchase and 5X miles on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel. While it doesn’t offer the same earning power as the Autograph Journey, the Venture Card offers a solid rewards rate on every purchase, which is ideal for people who don’t want to remember which categories offer extra rewards. The card also includes up to $100 reimbursement for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership application fees and complimentary Hertz Five Star elite status, which the Autograph Journey cannot match.

Capital One miles can be redeemed for cash back, travel, gift cards and more. Cardholders can also get statement credits for purchases made in the previous 90 days. Further, Capital One offers more than 15 airline and hotel transfer partners, which is three times as many options as Wells Fargo. The card does not charge foreign transaction fees, and it includes auto rental collision damage waiver and extended warranty protection on eligible purchases made with your card.

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey vs. Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

For people who want to earn Wells Fargo credit card points but don’t want to pay an annual fee, the Wells Fargo Autograph Card is a solid choice. This card earns an unlimited 3X points on travel, gas, restaurants, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. These bonus categories are an excellent way to maximize common spending categories, and many of these household categories aren’t available from the Autograph Journey Card.

Additionally, the no-annual-fee Autograph card includes an introductory APR offer on purchases, which the Autograph Journey doesn’t offer. If you need extra time to pay off your purchases without incurring interest charges, the Wells Fargo Autograph Card is the best option. This card includes many of the same protections as the $95 annual fee Autograph Journey, and its points also can be redeemed for cash back, gift cards and more or transferred to airline and hotel partners.

Frequently Asked Questions

What credit score do you need for a wells fargo autograph journey card.

For the best approval odds, you should have good to excellent credit when applying for the Autograph Journey Card. A good FICO credit score ranges from 670 to 739, while very good to exceptional FICO credit score start at 740 and above. If your credit score is below these levels, take steps to improve your score before applying.

How Much Are 60,000 Wells Fargo Points Worth?

At the most basic level, Wells Fargo points are worth 1 cent each toward travel, cash back, gift cards and more. This means that the 60,000 welcome bonus points from the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card are worth $600. With the introduction of transfer partners, you may receive even higher value when transferring points to book award flights or hotel rooms.

Does the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card Have Lounge Access?

No, the Autograph Journey does not include lounge access. To receive airport lounge access, typically, you’ll need to get a premium credit card for travel with an annual fee that likely ranges $395 or higher. Premium travel credit cards are best for frequent travelers who can justify paying such a high annual fee.

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Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. We may earn a commission from partner links on Newsweek, but commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.