When the expansion will commence

As this is the largest expansion in eligibility for GP care without charges ever undertaken, it is necessary to phase its introduction to avoid the creation of logjams in the application process.

Applications for children aged 6 and 7 will open on 11 August 2023.

Applications for the first group under the median-income expansion will commence on 11 September 2023.

Applications for the full group under the median-income expansion will commence on 13 November 2023.

What the new income thresholds will be and who will be in the first group

The weekly income threshold for a single person living alone will increase from €304 to €361 in the first phase, and then to €418 in the second.

The weekly income threshold for a single person living with family will increase from €271 to €322 in the first phase and to €373 in the second.

The weekly income threshold for a couple with or without dependent(s) will increase from €441 to €524 in the first phase and to €607 in the second. An allowed amount per dependent is added to the threshold for a couple with dependent(s).

Similarly, the weekly income threshold for a lone parent will increase from €441 to €524 in the first phase and to €607 in the second.

The income thresholds for those over 66 will, following the changes, be the same level as for those under 66 – the thresholds for those aged under 66 are currently lower than the thresholds for those aged over 66.

The eligibility criteria for over those over 70 will not change.

How people can apply

Applications for GP Visit Cards for children aged 6 and 7 will be processed by the Health Service Executive (HSE) PCRS in the same way as the current under 6 applications, via their online portal.

The HSE will also open a dedicated portal for those applying for GP Visit Cards on the basis of income. This system will allow the processing of the large volume of applications expected and ensure applicants receive their Cards in as timely a fashion as possible.

Applicants will make a declaration of their income and outgoings. The same expenses (housing costs, transportation, etc.) as are currently set against income in Medical or GP Visit Card applications will continue to apply. Where necessary, the HSE may seek additional information and copies of documents to support applications.