Medical Card

What Is a Medical Card?

A Medical Card entitles you (and your dependants) to free public healthcare services in Ireland. It is the highest level of public health cover available. Updated for 2026 HSE.

What the Medical Card Covers

• GP visits — free consultations with your family doctor.
• Public hospital care — free inpatient and outpatient services, including consultant care.
• Prescription medicines — free (subject to a €2 per item charge for some items, capped at €20 per month per family).
• Dental, optical, and aural services — free basic examinations and treatments.
• Maternity care — free antenatal and postnatal care.
• Mental health services — access to HSE community mental health teams.
• Counselling and therapies — some allied health services.

Income Limits (2026)

Eligibility is means-tested based on your gross weekly income (after tax, PRSI, USC, and certain deductions). The HSE assesses your income against the following thresholds:

Standard Income Limits

• Single person living alone: €184 per week
• Single person living with family: €164 per week
• Married/cohabiting couple (both under 66): €266.50 per week
• Married/cohabiting couple with dependants: €266.50 + €38 per child per week
• Single parent with dependants: €184 + €38 per child per week

Over-70s Income Limits

• Single person aged 70+: €550 per week
• Married/cohabiting couple (both 70+): €1,050 per week

Certain medical expenses and rent/mortgage costs can be deducted from your income when being assessed. The HSE may also grant a discretionary Medical Card if your income exceeds the limits but you have exceptional medical expenses.

How to Apply

1. Online application: Apply through the HSE website at mymedicalcard.ie. You'll need your Personal Public Service (PPS) number, proof of address, and income details.
2. Paper application: Download Form MC1 from hse.ie or collect it from your local Health Office or GP practice. Post the completed form with supporting documents.
3. Processing time: Typically 4–6 weeks, though it can be longer during peak periods.

Medical Card for Special Groups

• Children in care: Automatically eligible.
• Women in direct provision: Eligible for a Medical Card.
• EU/EEA/Swiss nationals: May be eligible if ordinarily resident.
• Asylum seekers: Eligible while their application is processed.

Renewal and Review

Medical Cards are generally valid for 1 year. The HSE will send a renewal form before expiry. If your circumstances change (income, address, family size), you must notify the HSE immediately, as this may affect your entitlement.