If you are planning on moving abroad within the EU for a few years or on a permanent basis, medical problems are probably the last thing on your mind. However, there are a few rules and procedures which apply to British expats living in the EU, and it is essential that you are aware of your rights and responsibilities.
EHIC Cards and Medical Cover
Many expats mistakenly believe that the EHIC, or European Health Insurance Card, will cover their medical treatment overseas within the EU. This is not the case as the EHIC is designed only for people who are permanently resident in the UK and travel to Europe for a short time for business, study or on holiday. Similarly, private medical insurance is often geared towards tourists or temporary visitors, so if you planning on taking out medical insurance for any expenses incurred, you should check the policy carefully to ensure you are fully covered. It is worth having any policies checked over by a native speaker of the language in which they are written to make sure you don’t miss any key exclusions or clauses. There are separate arrangements for pensioners who are resident overseas but in receipt of the UK state pension, and the Department of Health can provide people with the correct documentation.
Repatriation
Many people mistakenly assume that even if they have left the UK permanently, they have the right to return for medical treatment if they need to. This is not the case and whether or not you are entitled to treatment on the NHS will depend on a whole host of individual circumstances. It is important to know exactly where you stand legally regarding free treatment, so do some research. What will not be covered, unless you have comprehensive private medical cover specifically designed for British expats overseas, is the cost of travel back to the UK, whether by air ambulance or regular flight.
Tax
If you are working overseas on a permanent basis, you will need to inform HMRC of your non-resident status as it will affect the amount of tax you have to pay. If you have bank accounts, investments or property which you rent out in the UK, you may still have to complete an annual tax return and pay any tax owing. It is a relatively straightforward process to do this online, or alternatively hire an accountant specialising in expat tax affairs to do it for you and minimise your liability.
