An S2 certificate will cover eligible state-funded healthcare costs for pre-approved treatment received, within the dates of issue, on the same basis as a resident of the country you are receiving your treatment in.
Some countries may ask you to pay a contribution towards the cost of your planned healthcare before receiving treatment, even if you have an S2. This is known as a co-payment or patient contribution. When organising your planned treatment (S2) abroad you should have been informed of the estimated costs you were expected to pay.
If you hold a valid S2 certificate and can provide evidence that the costs paid are for the treatment authorised, you can claim a refund for these co-payments. Any refund will normally be up to the cost of the NHS Tariff.
During your period of travel, if you need any other necessary treatment not listed on your issued S2 certificate, you’ll need to confirm if it is state-funded.
Necessary state-funded healthcare is covered by a UK issued European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) on the same basis as a resident of the treating country. If you do not have a UK EHIC or UK GHIC, a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) gives you the same level of cover as a UK GHIC or UK EHIC.
You cannot use a UK EHIC or UK GHIC if you or your insurance provider have already paid for your treatment. However, you may be able to apply for a refund of eligible costs. Keep all receipts and paperwork. You or your insurance company may need them if you apply for a refund.
The UK EHIC or UK GHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance and will not cover private treatment, even if this treatment is necessary. You should get appropriate private travel and medical insurance for the duration of your trip.
Private treatment using an S2
Some countries may be able to offer state-funded treatment within a private healthcare setting. Not all care offered to you by a private healthcare provider will necessarily be state-funded and covered by your approved S2.
You'll be responsible for any private costs, and it's important you are aware of the costs you are expected to pay.
When applying for your S2, if you were planning to get treatment abroad in a private healthcare setting, you were asked to provide a detailed estimated cost invoice. You’ll need to pay for anything listed as 'private' on this invoice. This also includes any privately provided additional, unplanned, medically necessary treatment.
The UK Government will not pay any costs for private healthcare, benefits or private ‘co-payment’ charges, which are not covered as part of the public healthcare system in the country you’ve travelled to.
Claim a refund for your S2-related costs
Download and complete the Refund claim form - S2 (PDF: 320KB)
If you need help or have any questions about completing this form, contact us:
Telephone: 0191 218 1999
Telephone from outside the UK: +44 191 218 1999
Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
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If English is not your first language, phone this number and we will provide an interpretation service over the phone.