What differences are there in UK S1 coverage depending on when I arrived in Austria?

Question: If I have my healthcare funded in Austria via the UK (e.g. Pensioner with a UK S1), is there a difference between the S1 coverage for those who move to Austria after 31 December 2020?

Answer: The rules changed on 1st January 2024 and so S1 coverage in England is now the same. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland may have different rules

The table below illustrates the main differences between those that are covered by the Withdrawal Agreement (arrived in the EU on or before 31 December 2020) and those who are covered by the EU-UK Trade and Co-operation Agreement  (Arrived in the EU after 31 December 2020).

EU Residence TypeUK NHS CoverageUK EHIC/GHIC Card
In the EU before 31 December 2020FULL NHS coverage in England, the same as a UK resident whilst visiting England provided they travel with the S1. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland may have different rules.Can apply for a UK supplied EHIC card
Arrived in the EU after 31 December 2020Since 1st January 2024, same as above in England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland may have different rules.Can apply for a UK supplied GHIC card
Table explaining difference based on residence type

Following some further investigative work, here is our current understanding for all the nations in the UK

Home NationS1 Coverage
EnglandSince 1st Janaury 2024, full NHS coverage for primary and secondary care irrespective of Withdrawal AgreementWithdrawal Agreement The Withdrawal Agreement sets out the terms of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU and provides for a deal on citizens’ rights. It sets out a transition period which lasts until 31 December 2020. During this time you can continue to live, work and study in the EU broadly as you did before 31 January 2020.   If you are resident in Austria at the end of the transition period, you will be covered by the Withdrawal Agreement, and your rights will be protected for as long as you remain resident in Austria.   Any rights that are not covered by the Withdrawal Agreement will be the subject of future negotiations.   https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/new-withdrawal-agreement-and-political-declaration   status
ScotlandFrom 1st January 2021, only GP services, emergency treatment in an A&E or casualty department and treatment for a range of infectious diseases, including covid.
Northern IrelandMedically necessary treatment (the need for which arose during the visit only) when visiting Northern Ireland, however there is no provision for UK S1 holders to access publicly funded planned healthcare when on a short term visit.
WalesFull coverage for Withdrawal Agreement beneficiaries with an S1. GP services and access to emergency treatment for those who arrive in the EU after 31st December 2020. ( Ref. para 6.83 and 6.84 of the Welsh Governement Guidance on implementing EU Exit amendments to the Overseas Visitors Charging Regulations, February 2023)
S1 coverage in the Home Nations in the UK

Note 1: A UK supplied EHIC/GHIC card is NOT valid for treatment in the UK; whereas an Austrian supplied EHIC card (back of e-card) is valid in the UK

Note 2: If you receive a UK State Pension AND a pension from the country you have moved to (e.g. Austria), you may not get an S1 form. This is because the country you live in is responsible for your healthcare.

Travel Insurance

Regardless of your S1 status, if you live in Austria and travel to the UK, you should always take out dedicated travel insurance. Your UK EHIC, GHIC or S1 will not cover everything. Specifically it does not cover:

  • Travel cancellations
  • Theft
  • Repatriation

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