What Is a GP Visit Card?
A GP Visit Card entitles you to free visits to your family doctor (GP). Unlike the Medical Card, it does not cover hospital charges, prescription medicines, or other services. It is a lower level of cover aimed at reducing the cost of routine GP care. Updated for 2026 HSE.
What the GP Visit Card Covers
- Free GP consultations during normal surgery hours.
- Free GP visits for urgent out-of-hours care (if your GP provides this service or through a GP out-of-hours co-op).
- Home visits by your GP, if medically necessary.
- Certain GP services such as vaccinations and blood pressure checks.
It does not cover prescription medicines, hospital care, dental services, or optical services.
Who Can Get a GP Visit Card?
The GP Visit Card is means-tested. The income limits are higher than for the Medical Card, meaning more people qualify. The limits for 2026 are:
- Single person living alone: €418 per week
- Single person living with family: €373 per week
- Married/cohabiting couple (with or without children): €607 per week
- Married/cohabiting couple with dependants: €607 + €57 per child per week
- Single parent with dependants: €607 + €57 per child per week
Under-8s GP Visit Card
All children under the age of 8 are automatically entitled to a GP Visit Card, regardless of household income. This was introduced under the Under-6s GP Visit Card scheme and expanded to under-8s. Apply directly through the HSE with your child's birth certificate and PPS number.
How to Apply
- Apply online at mymedicalcard.ie — the same portal used for Medical Cards.
- You will need your PPS number, proof of address, and income details for the last four weeks.
- If eligible, you will receive your card by post within 4–6 weeks.
- Choose a GP who has signed up to the scheme (most GPs participate).
GP Visit Card vs Medical Card
| Service | GP Visit Card | Medical Card |
|---|---|---|
| GP visits | Free | Free |
| Prescription medicines | Not covered | Free (€2/item, capped) |
| Public hospital care | Not covered | Free |
| Dental/Optical | Not covered | Basic services free |
| Income limit (single) | €418/week | €184/week |
Income Limits (2026) — Corrected Figures
The GP Visit Card income limits were increased in November 2023 and remain in force for 2026. The current weekly net income limits are:
- Single person living alone: €418 per week
- Single person living with family: €373 per week
- Married/cohabiting couple (with or without children): €607 per week
- Single parent: €607 per week
- Each dependant child under 16: add €57 per week (first two children), €61.50 for the third and each subsequent child
These are assessed on net income after tax, PRSI, and USC, with the same allowable deductions as the Medical Card (rent, mortgage, childcare, travel-to-work, maintenance). Because the limits are higher than the Medical Card thresholds, many households that miss out on a Medical Card still qualify for free GP visits.
People aged 70 and over, and all children under 8, are entitled to free GP care regardless of income — no means test applies to them.
How to Apply and Use Your Card
- Apply online at mymedicalcard.ie. The same application covers both the Medical Card and GP Visit Card — you will automatically be considered for whichever you qualify for.
- Have your documents ready: PPS number, proof of address, and income details for the last four weeks (payslips, bank statements, or a letter from your employer).
- Choose a participating GP. Most GPs are signed up to the scheme. Ask the practice directly whether they accept GP Visit Card patients before registering.
- Keep your card with you. You must show it at each visit. The card covers consultations during surgery hours and most out-of-hours co-op visits.
- Renew when asked. The card is issued for a set period; the HSE will contact you before renewal. Report income changes promptly — a pay rise can end your entitlement.
Remember what the card does not cover: prescription medicines, hospital charges, dental, or optical care. If you need help with medicines, combine the GP Visit Card with the Drugs Payment Scheme (€80/month cap) — the two work well together.
Medical disclaimer: this guide is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Confirm current income limits on hse.ie before applying.