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Apply for a Long-Term Illness Scheme card

To apply, you must be living in Ireland and intend to live here for at least 1 year.

How to apply

To apply, download and complete an application form:

If you want us to send you a form by post:

Where to send the form

Send your application form to:

Long-Term Illness Scheme,
Client Registration Unit,
PO Box 12962,
Dublin 11,
D11 XKF3

What to include in your application

Include a medical report from your GP or consultant.

To show that you live in Ireland, include a copy of one of these with your application:

  • a utility bill dated within the last 12 months - gas, electricity or phone
  • a recent bank statement or credit card statement
  • a current car or home insurance policy in the applicant's name
  • an official document from a government department, the Revenue or a local authority

Check the status of your application

When you apply and provide a mobile number, we text you a reference number. If you do not provide a mobile number, we post the reference number to you.

You can use your reference number to check the status of your application online.

You will get your card details in the post

Information:

There is a temporary disruption to the production of plastic Long-Term Illness Scheme cards.

Your card is still valid, and you can still access all of your usual healthcare services using the card details.

We will send you a letter that contains your card information. You can use the letter to show you have a Long-Term Illness Scheme card.

The digital version of your card appears in the HSE Health App before you receive your card details in the post.

Download the HSE Health App from:

Page last reviewed: 19 December 2025
Next review due: 19 December 2028