S1 Form Vs EUIC: Understanding Your Healthcare Options in the EU
Are You an EU Citizen or Legal Resident?
The first question to ask is whether you are an EU citizen or legal resident. If the answer is yes, then you have healthcare rights in the EU.
Do You Pay Health Insurance in Your Country of Citizenship?
If you are working legally in the EU economic zone outside of your native country or have a legally exportable income, you need to apply for a certificate of continuation of cover from your home country. This application is made via the S1 form, which is not downloadable and must be obtained from your country’s provider.
For those temporarily in an EU economic zone country away from home, you should apply for an EUIC, which is an ID card showing that you have the right to limited cover in EU economic zone countries.
Enrolling in National Medical Insurance Program or Getting Private Health Insurance
If you don’t fall into the above categories, you should enroll in the national medical insurance program of the country you are resident in. However, many people choose to get private health insurance, as it offers benefits such as medical evacuation, choice of hospital or facility, and coverage outside of the EU.
Benefits of Private Health Insurance
Under the above schemes, you will be entitled to receiving medical cover without paying more than you already do in your home country. However, national insurance programs do not guarantee the quality of service that you might expect or be entitled to in your native country.
Expat Underground: Affordable Health Care Cover for Expatriates
Expat Underground offers affordable insurance programs for expatriates in the EU for both long-term use and short-term hops abroad. If you need further information on getting affordable healthcare cover, don’t hesitate to ask Expat Underground.