A Guide for Expatriates to S1 Forms 

Moving abroad comes with a host of logistical challenges, not the least of which is ensuring access to healthcare services in your new country of residence. 

For individuals relocating within the European Economic Area (EEA), obtaining an S1 form assists with securing healthcare coverage. 

But what exactly is an S1 form, who is eligible for it, and how does one go about obtaining it? 

Let’s check the details.

What is The S1 Form

The S1 form, previously known as E106, E109, and E121, serves as a certificate of entitlement to healthcare for individuals living in one European Economic Area country but covered by the healthcare system of another European Economic Area country. 

This includes pensioners, posted workers, civil servants, and their dependents who find themselves in such a situation.

Eligibility Criteria For S1 Form

So, who qualifies for an S1 form? 

• Individuals receiving a state pension or certain ‘exportable’ benefits from an EEA country.
• Frontier workers, meaning those who live in one EEA country but work in another.
• Employees are posted to work in an EEA country by an employer based in another EEA country.
• Eligible family members or dependents of the aforementioned categories.

If you’re uncertain about your eligibility, it’s advisable to check with the relevant national health insurance authority to ascertain whether they’re responsible for your healthcare costs in your new country of residence.

How to Obtain an S1 Form

Applying for an S1 form in Malta involves the following steps and required documents:

1. Complete the Application: Ensure that you are eligible as a pensioner or posted worker whose healthcare is covered by another EEA country.
2. Submit the Application: Send your completed application along with the following supporting documents to the Maltese Entitlement Unit via email (entitlementunit@gov.mt):
   • Original S1 Form
   • eResidence Card
   • Passport
   • Photocopies of the S1 form, eResidence card, and passport
3. Processing Time: The Entitlement Unit typically processes the application on the same day, if all provided required documents are in order. However, if there are any discrepancies or missing documents, processing may be delayed until the applicant provides the requested information.
4. Registration Process : Register your S1 form with the Entitlement Unit at St. Luke’s Hospital in Malta. Once registered, you will receive a Certificate of Entitlement, granting you access to healthcare services in Malta on the same terms as a Maltese citizen. It is recommended to book an appointment or inquire about the process ahead of time to avoid any delays and ensure smooth registration.

There are no specific costs associated with applying for the S1 form itself, but ensuring all paperwork is correct is crucial to avoid delays; once registered, you receive a Certificate of Entitlement. This process is essential to ensure that your healthcare entitlements are recognised. allowing you to access healthcare services in Malta on the same basis as a Maltese citizen​ (Malta Interactive Portal).

Additionally, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with Malta’s healthcare system and how it integrates with the S1 process. The system offers a range of services from general practitioners to hospital care, and the Certificate of Entitlement grants you access to these services, much like any local resident. However, depending on your specific situation, you may also need to register with a general practitioner (GP) to ensure continued access to services.

Conclusion

Finding healthcare access in a new country when you move can feel overwhelming, especially as an expatriate. However, having the right paperwork, like the S1 form, and knowing how it works can make it easier. These resources help you get healthcare without interruptions and feel more confident as you start your new life abroad.