E FORMS 111 (EHIC), 106 and 121

Introduction

There are several E Forms in issue that relate to reciprocal healthcare arrangements within the EU/EEA and Switzerland. The fact that it has an E prefix indicates that they are recognized throughout this geo-political area. However their value and their limitations will be explained with particular reference to France. The three main forms are the EHIC, E106 and E121.

"European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)".  Available from Post Offices and online via the DWP website and provides necessary treatment for those on temporary visits to other EU/EEA states and Switzerland.  It does not mean that treatment and its costs are based on UK NHS practice, ie; free on the point of delivery.  Treatment received and its cost would be based as it would for any other French citiizen, which in turn will mean a level of personal contribution from the patient.  The EHIC is not a proper substitute for travel insurance and like the E111 is not valid for the permanent resident of France.  However many travel insurers will waive the excess on a medical claim if part of the costs have been met by the EHIC.

There is no longer a requirement for EU/Swiss nationals to obtain a "carte de séjour" although it may be required if it is intended to pursue some professional activity. if required E111 will normally satisfy the requirement for health cover or "sécurité sociale".

E106. If a UK National comes to live in France but is below the UK state retirement age then it is possible to obtain an E106 from the DWP in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. This form will entitle the holder to healthcare in France for a limited period. The actual length of time will depend on the amount of National Insurance contributions paid during his or her working career. This entitlement is usually valid for a maximum of two years. However unlike the E111 it will be necessary to register with CPAM and this form should be produced along with other supporting documentation such as passport, proof of residence etc. Both routine and emergency healthcare will be covered but again a contirbution will be required either by payment direct or via a top up insurance policy.

E121. A UK National of state retirement age AND in receipt of a state pension should obtain an E121 from the DWP in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. With this form registration with CPAM is allowed. In the case of a couple (including Common Law marriages) only one of the partners needs to fullfil this age and receipt of pension requirement for the other to be included. As with E106 both routine and emergency healthcare will be covered but again a contirbution will be required either by payment direct or via a top up insurance policy.

Irrespective of age those in receipt of Long Term Incapacity Benefit or Severe Disablement Allowance can also apply for E121.

Registration with CPAM via E106 and E121 does not come within the scope of the CMU legislation so no financial contribution is required apart from the inherent top up element that characterises the funding of healthcare in France.

There are many other E Forms that relate to reciprocal health arrangements and address particular circumstances. eg; E123, which gives cover to those in receipt of UK Industrial Injuries Benefit.

This subject is explored in much greater detail in "Healthcare in France - A Guide for the Expatriate

Tel/Fax: 0033 4 94 85 15 50
email: enquiries@expathealthdirect.co.uk