Free EHIC Discussion

Pollycat

maimee_magic wrote: »

Perhaps the word scam is a bit strong as no doubt they do pass on your details. No confirmation of removal received though so not sure there's anything I can do about it. Hopefully, the OFT will do something about them.

They do - unfortunately, as these websites are closed down, new ones start up.

This link is from August 2010 where OFT shut down some websites:
https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/2651817

An OFT spokesperson said:

This means they can charge a fee to forward your application to the NHS but they cannot pretend to sell you the card, as many previously did.

The websites were found to be misleading as they mimicked the EHIC brand, used an official sounding domain name and omitted important information by failing to clearly disclose that they were not the official provider of EHICs.

Heather Clayton, from the OFT, says: "While it is not unlawful to charge money for a reviewing and forwarding service, traders must be clear about the product or service they are offering, and not trick consumers into parting with money for services they don't want.

So the website you used is not actually illegal as they did state in at least 2 places that you can get the card for free so it sounds like they're possibly getting round OFT being able to act against them.

That's why I say it's sharp practice - "sneaky or cunning behavior that is technically within the rules of the law but bordering on being unethical'.

edgex

maimee_magic wrote: »

Went online last night to renew our EHIC and the 1st site on the search list was http://www.nhs-direct.org.uk/ and assumed it was the official site by the name. Filled in all our details then realised when they asked for payment that something wasn't right so checked on MSE. I've advised the OFT about them but I'm really concerned that they now have all our details! I've emailed and asked for them to remove them from their system but can't help worrying.

I would also submit a complaint to the domain name registrar, as the 'org.uk' domains are supposed to be for official organisations, eg registered charities, arts bodies etc

http://whois.domaintools.com/nhs-direct.org.uk

Registrar:
Webfusion Ltd t/a 123-reg [Tag = 123-REG]
URL: http://www.123-reg.co.uk


also, in this case, the domain name registration is breaking the nominet t&c's
"The terms and conditions require that you declare that the registration does not infringe the rights of others - for example, their trade mark rights."

elsidl

I just been taken by one of the deceptive web sites appearing to offer official European Health Insurance card renewals. It was renewehic.org (even ends in .org to make it look even more official). It comes up top of a health card Google search. It cost me £14.99 for a service that should have been free and of course there's no chance of a refund or cancellation. Nothing but an absolute con. I pride myself on not usually being fooled but when you're in a rush and comparing the charge with other NHS service charges (such as prescriptions) it's very easy indeed to be taken in. I've complained to the OFT who I know have been working on this scam but I'll no doubt lose a lot of sleep over it!!

mamparra

Many thanks to you guys for warning about the expiry of these cards - mine ran out in January LAST year!! You would have thought that the EHIC would have had some type of automatic reminder sent to your email address but then I suppose this is the 21st Century and those sorts in the bureaucracy haven't quite caught up yet? Lucky I didn't get sick on the continent!!

The_Jeffers

i've had an EIHC card for years and when I found it expired I tried to re-register - it wanted £14.00 from me!!! that's not free!!!

am I doing anything wrong????

dzug1

The_Jeffers wrote: »

i've had an EIHC card for years and when I found it expired I tried to re-register - it wanted £14.00 from me!!! that's not free!!!

am I doing anything wrong????

Sounds like you haven't read this thread. You are using the wrong site.

http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/EHIC/Pages/Introduction.aspx

is the place to start

caterer63

I just renewed 3 EHIC's yesterday and had to pay a £15 charge per card. I thought they were free cards???

furndire

They are free, you went to the wrong site. I googled, and nearly did the same. The first info coming up is for a paying site. I filled my form in, & then realised there was a short message at the bottom "fee is no refundable" (alarm bells - thanks to MSE) so consequently removed all my details, & googled again.

I got our replacement ones in a couple of days, when I rang them they had all our details, I was even able to order my oh's at the same time, without the usual rigmarole of "I need to speak to Mr ...."

MUCH QUICKER TO RING & RENEW.

vreemt

thanks for the info on the different sites and the issue of nationality vs residence (:
I used https www. ehic. org. uk / Internet / home.do and did not have to pay.

From the application page:

Alternatively, you can apply by calling 0845 606 2030. If you are a non-EEA national you can only apply by post as you need to provide further documentation that supports your application. For information on applying, including how to obtain an application form, please visit NHS Choices at #NHS website#

Only one application by either post / internet or telephone is necessary. If you have made any prior applications and are yet to receive a card, please call our enquiry line on 0845 605 0707 for your EHIC or to renew your expired card.
If your card is stolen or lost please contact our Enquiries Line on 0845 605 0707 or if calling from abroad +44 191 212 7500.

The confirmation said

Thank you for submitting your application. This will now be verified and processed. Most customers receive their EHIC within 10 working days.

I was required to enter a telephone number during the application (I'm guessing 'inc. STD' means including area code etc.).

why do they need a telephone number?

dzug1

vreemt wrote: »

why do they need a telephone number?

So they can contact you easily if there's a problem with the application