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Moving abroad

Studying abroad as part of a UK recognised course

If you're going to another European Economic Area (EEA) country to study as part of a UK-recognised course, you will need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). You will also need one for any dependants you may have. Your cover will last the duration of your course.

Your EHIC application will need to include:

  • Name and address of the UK educational institution.
  • Address where you are studying overseas.
  • Period of study.
  • Details of the qualification you are studying for. 

The course is not part of a UK recognised course

If you're going to another member state to study a course that is not recognised in the UK, you are entitled to a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for the first 12 months only. After that you will need to register for state healthcare in the country where you are studying or obtain private insurance.

If you're going to another member state to study a course that is not recognised in the UK, you are entitled to a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for the first 12 months only. After that you will need to register for state healthcare in the country where you are studying or obtain private insurance.

Your EHIC application will need to include,

  • Address of where you will be studying abroad.
  • Period of study.
  • Details of the qualification you're studying for.

Studying in a country outside the EEA

If you're going to study in a country outside the EEA, you will not be entitled to healthcare paid for by the UK while you are studying.

However, anyone who is studying outside the EEA for less than six months in one of the following countries is entitled to emergency care or immediately necessary treatment that arises during the period of study abroad:

  • Anguilla
  • Australia
  • Barbados
  • Bosnia
  • Herzegovina
  • British Virgin Islands
  • Channel Islands
  • Croatia
  • Falkland Islands
  • Gibraltar
  • Isle of Man
  • Macedonia
  • Montserrat
  • New Zealand
  • Russia
  • St. Helena
  • Serbia and Montenegro
  • Turks and Caicos Islands
  • Former USSR (Soviet Union)

For more information, see the country-by-country guide on travelling outside the European Economic Area (EEA).

Last reviewed: 30/04/2009

Next review due: 29/04/2011

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