GP Visit Card Ireland 2026 — Free GP Visits, Income Limits and How to Apply
GP Visit Card in Ireland
The GP Visit Card gives you free visits to your GP without paying the standard €50-€70 consultation fee. The income limits are significantly higher than the Medical Card — many people who do not qualify for a Medical Card will qualify for a GP Visit Card.
GP Visit Card — At a glance
- What it covers
- Free GP visits only
- Children under 8
- Automatic — no means test
- Income limits
- Higher than Medical Card
- How to apply
- MyWelfare.ie or form GVC1 — approx 15 working days
Key facts — GP Visit Card 2026
GP Visit Card vs Medical Card — key differences
| Service | GP Visit Card | Medical Card |
|---|---|---|
| Free GP visits | Yes | Yes |
| Free prescriptions | No | Yes |
| Free hospital (public) services | No | Yes |
| Free dental (basic) | No | Yes |
| Higher income limits | Yes | No |
Who qualifies for a GP Visit Card?
You qualify for a GP Visit Card if:
- You are habitually resident in Ireland
- Your household income is below the assessment threshold for your family size
- You are not already entitled to a full Medical Card
The income limits for the GP Visit Card are typically around double those for the Medical Card, making it accessible to many working people and families on moderate incomes. For current exact thresholds, check gov.ie as limits are updated annually.
How to apply for a GP Visit Card
- Gather your documents
You will need your PPS number, proof of income (payslips, P60, or DSP payment details), and details of your household members and their incomes.
- Apply online or by post
Apply online at MyWelfare.ie for the fastest processing. Alternatively, download form GVC1 from gov.ie and post it to the HSE Primary Care Reimbursement Service.
- Wait for a decision
Processing typically takes 15 working days. You will receive a decision letter and, if approved, a GP Visit Card with your name and a card number.
- Register with a participating GP
Once you have your card, register with a GP who accepts GP Visit Card holders. Not all GPs accept the card — check with your preferred GP before registering.
How income is assessed
The assessment looks at your gross weekly income from all sources: employment, self-employment, rental income, social welfare payments and other income. Certain deductions are allowed for childcare costs, rent/mortgage, and travel to work. Income of a spouse or partner is also taken into account.
If your income is borderline, it is worth applying anyway — the assessor will consider your net disposable income after allowable deductions, which can bring many people within the qualifying threshold.
Frequently asked questions
What does a GP Visit Card cover?
Free visits to your GP (family doctor). It does not cover prescriptions, hospital services, dental, optical or other health services. For those, you would need a full Medical Card.
What is the difference between a GP Visit Card and a Medical Card?
A Medical Card covers free GP visits, prescriptions, hospital services and dental. A GP Visit Card covers free GP visits only. The GP Visit Card has higher income limits and is accessible to more people.
Are children automatically entitled to free GP visits?
Yes. All children aged under 8 are entitled to free GP visits without a means test — no application or income limit required. Children between 8 and 18 may qualify depending on family income.
How do I apply?
Apply online at MyWelfare.ie or use form GVC1 (available at gov.ie). You will need your PPS number and proof of income. Processing takes approximately 15 working days.
Can immigrants apply for a GP Visit Card?
Yes, if you are habitually resident in Ireland and meet the income limits. You will need a PPS number and proof of income and residence in Ireland.
What if I have a Medical Card but lose my job?
If you already have a Medical Card, you keep it. If you only have a GP Visit Card and your income drops, you may now qualify for a full Medical Card — apply at MyWelfare.ie.
- The GP Visit Card does not cover prescriptions — you still pay for medicines; only a full Medical Card covers that
- Children under 8 are entitled to free GP visits without any application — no means test, no income limit
- Income limits are assessed on net disposable income after deductions, not gross salary — allowances for childcare, rent and travel to work can bring many families within the threshold
- Not all GPs accept the GP Visit Card — confirm before registering with a new practice
This page was reviewed against official Irish government guidance and updated to reflect 2026 GP Visit Card income limits and eligibility rules.