Free GP visits for all children aged 6 and 7
Wednesday 16 August 2023All children aged under 8 are now eligible for free GP care. It was previously for under 6s.
It doesn’t matter how much you earn or how much money is coming into your household.
The only requirement is that your child is aged under 8 and living in Ireland.
If your child is aged under 6 and already has an Under 6s GP Visit Card, it will automatically be extended. You do not need to reapply. They will have free GP care up to their 8th birthday
If your child has a medical card you do not need to apply. Your child can already visit their GP free of charge.
What the Under 8s GP Visit Card covers
The Under 8s GP Visit Card covers your child for –
- free visits to their doctor
- free out of hours urgent care
- free GP home visits
- free assessments at age 2 and 5
- care for children with asthma
Medication costs are not covered.
Check if your GP is taking part
Before applying, you must first check if your GP is taking part in the scheme.
The list of GPs providing under 8s GP Visit Card services is here
If your GP is not taking part in the scheme or can’t take any more patients, you will need to pick another GP from the list.
How to apply
To make an application you will need –
- Your PPS number
- Child’s PPS number
- GP’s name
You can make an online application here or
You can apply by post. Application forms can be downloaded here or phone 0818 22 44 78 to order an application form in the post.
Next steps
After receiving your application, the HSE will email your child’s details to your GP.
If your GP is not accepting registrations electronically, you will receive your child’s registration details. Bring it to your GP to sign and you post it back to the HSE.
Once this process is complete, your GP will get the details and you will get your child’s card within a few days.
Further Information
If you need help with your application you can contact the GP Visit Card service.
National Medical Card Unit – GP visit cards
PO Box 11745
Dublin 11
Phone: 0818 22 44 78 or LoCall 01 864 7100
Email: clientregistration@hse.ie
Apply now to bring down your family’s healthcare costs.
