I have an enquiry from a lovely couple living out here and in the state system, via Cat Salut, about how do they get hold of their EHIC out here in Catalonia for travel back to the UK to visit.

Is this what they need? Is there something else they need ask for to assure health cover in the UK and where from?

As far as I know they are not pensioners yet, but have lived out here for a few years.

When I have googled it only brings out how you apply for this in the UK via EHIC

Please this is rather urgent.

In the past an E111 was sufficient for Spaniards and I imagine Spanish residents who wanted to visit Britain.  I've been checking out Spanish websites and apparently whilst an E111 still exists, a European Health Card (Tarjeta Sanitaria Europea) is required.  This can be applied for in any Social Security office.  Applicant must show all documentation, ID/Residence card, Cat Salut card etc. Hope this is of some help.

Susanita

We went to the social security office in Tortosa taking our cat salut and residencia cards, told them we wanted a european health card and were issued with them instantly! They are valid for 1 year and when we returned a year later we handed over the old ones and received new ones there and then! If only everything here was that simple and uncomplicated!

Hi

I see that these"Tarjeta Sanitoria Europea"have been causing quite  a lot of discussion on another forum. Check it out to see others experiences : www.BritishExpats.com