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Health

Medical cards and GP visit cards

A medical card gives free GP visits and many free health services. A GP visit card gives free GP visits only. Whether you qualify mainly depends on your income.

  1. Apply online on the HSE website or with a paper form.
  2. Include proof of your income and your household costs.
  3. The HSE will tell you if you qualify. You then choose a GP from their list.

Children under a certain age can get free GP visits regardless of income — check the HSE website for the current rules.

Official information

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules and fees change — check the official website or ask us. Last updated 17 October 2026.

What to have ready

  • PPS numbers for everyone in the household
  • Proof of income
  • Proof of address
  • Bank details

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