Healthcare for European expats: EHIC vs local system, S1, private cover and doctor setup

• Stay < 12 months + insured in home country → EHIC usually OK for necessary care.

• Employee in host country → register in local system (e.g., Ameli FR, Krankenkasse DE, Seguridad Social ES).

• Pensioner with S1 → register in host country with S1 from home insurer.

• Freelancer/remote → check local rules; consider private international cover until registered.

ID, proof of address, employment/contract or S1, birth certificate (sometimes), bank details for reimbursements, vaccination record for kids. See our banking guide for setting up local account details.

Search official directories; ask for doctors accepting new patients. Bring IDs and old prescriptions. Ask the GP to update your electronic health record.

Carry generic names; some brands differ. Ask for local equivalents and dosage. Keep receipts for reimbursements. When traveling, bring your European Health Insurance Card for coverage across borders.

Know the emergency number (112 in EU). Cities offer low-cost counseling via municipal or university services; ask your GP for referrals.

"Hello, I've just moved to [city] as an employee/freelancer. Could you confirm the documents and the office where I should register? I would like to receive my health number as soon as possible."