What a medical card covers
If you have a medical card you don't have to pay to see your doctor, or for medicines they prescribe.
A medical card also covers:
- public out-patient and in-patient services
- eye and ear tests
- dental checks
Check if you can apply
Anyone who is ‘ordinarily resident’ in the Republic of Ireland can apply for a medical card or GP visit card. This includes families, single people, even those working full or part-time. ‘Ordinarily resident’ means that you are living here and intend to live here for at least one year.
Check if you might be eligible
Being eligible for a medical card depends on your circumstances. If you do not automatically qualify for a medical card, we will carry out an assessment.
You will need to provide information about your:
- income
- expenses
- marital status
- dependants
If you're not eligible for a medical card, we will then automatically assess you for a GP visit card.
People who automatically qualify
You may automatically qualify for a medical card if you:
- are participating in certain government schemes
- have been affected by the drug Thalidomide
- have had a surgical Symphysiotomy
- are a child diagnosed with cancer within the last 5 years
- are in foster care
- live in direct provision
- qualify under EU Regulations
For any of these, you will not be subject to a financial assessment, but you will still need to apply.
Read about the Redress Scheme for Women Resident in Certain Institutions.
