To help spread the message, the Department has developed a postcard** for Hungarians in the UK to send as a reminder to friends or family back home who may be planning to visit.

The rules have changed*** and visitors to the UK from Europe**** now need to carry a valid EHIC to cover the cost of any immediate, necessary medical treatment in an NHS hospital. Without an EHIC, the price of a holiday could spiral out of control and may end up costing thousands of pounds. In contrast, the EHIC is completely free and it takes just minutes to apply for or to renew online. For more information, visit www.oep.hu.

Ilona Esterhazy, Secretary of the British-Hungarian Society said: “We all look forward to seeing friends and family from home. Most trips are trouble free but accidents or illnesses can happen and being landed with an unexpected bill simply adds to the worry.

“I would urge the Hungarian community here to send the postcards to remind their loved ones to apply for their EHIC before they travel. This simple precaution will provide both visitor and host with peace of mind so they can enjoy their time together.”

An EHIC isn’t a substitute for travel insurance as it does not cover all medical costs, repatriation or other costs such as baggage and cancellation cover. Visitors to the UK must have both an EHIC and travel insurance to be fully covered during their trip.

For further information on EHIC or to order postcards, please contact: Natalie Andrews
T: 020 7025 7521