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British holidaymakers will keep free health cover in EU countries after Brexit , David Davis said yesterday.

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) scheme guarantees British citizens access to emergency healthcare abroad.

And if Brussels won't pay for it, Davis says, the British government will foot the £155 million a year bill.

The disclosure was briefed ahead of a 12-page document sent to Brussels negotiators today, outlining the British government's plan for EU migrants after Brexit .

On Thursday, Theresa May revealed migrants who have been in the country for five years will be given 'settled' status.

This will mean they will be allowed to stay in the UK for life, claim benefits and use the NHS without charge.

But today's document will include a pledge to check criminal records of migrants applying for settled status - and to deport anyone considered "undesirable."

What is the EHIC - and what does it cover?

While the EHIC is one of the most useful bits of plastic you can pack for a European break, it is not a replacement for travel insurance – you need both.

The benefits of the card are limited. It gives access to medical care, but only at the same level as locals in the EU country you are visiting.

While some care can be free, or at a reduced cost, many countries charge for medical treatment as they don’t have a system like our free NHS.

Where you can use it

(Image: Getty)

The EHIC is free to most UK residents – Channel Islands and Isle of Man residents are not eligible for one – and is essential for travel to all 27 European Union countries plus Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein.

It is not accepted in Turkey or elsewhere around the world. The card does not entitle the holder to be flown home in the case of an emergency.

If you don’t have travel insurance you will have to cough up the cost of being repatriated – there is no help from the Government or any other organisation – which can cost tens of thousands of pounds.

The word insurance in the name is the key to much of the confusion as those jetting off mistakenly believe it is like a travel insurance policy.