Settling in this Autumn: Family Doctor, Seasonal Vaccines, and E-Prescriptions in Europe

You've just moved (or changed city/country) and need a family doctor, seasonal boosters (flu, COVID), and you're facing 'e-prescriptions.' The good news: across most of Europe, these steps are structured and quick—if you bring the right documents.

GP registration: some countries require a formal enrollment (online or form), others are looser. Typically needed: ID, proof of address, and—if available—your local health insurance number.

Seasonal vaccinations: autumn flu/COVID campaigns restart. Depending on age/risk, you'll be directed to a health center, an accredited pharmacy, or your GP.

Electronic prescriptions: more pharmacies read prescriptions via health card/app or QR code. Less paperwork, clearer history.

Reimbursements: the common idea is 'medically necessary care at local rates.' Depending on your status (local insured, posted worker, EHIC for temporary stays, private insurance), your out-of-pocket will differ. Keep invoices and pharmacy receipts/QRs.

Core docs: passport/ID, proof of address (lease, host attestation + host ID copy), proof of health coverage (or EHIC for temporary stays), bank details (IBAN) if reimbursements allow. See our banking guide for setting up local account details.

Health file: vaccination card (clear photo), current prescriptions, key medical history translated into English if possible (allergies, treatments).

Pick a practice: shortlist 2–3 nearby practices, check if they take new patients, note languages spoken.

E-Rx-enabled pharmacy: find one open late/weekends, confirm e-prescription and third-party billing if used locally.

Helpful apps: keep it light—your insurer's app/portal, any local vaccine scheduler, and secure storage for documents.

At home: assemble a single PDF with ID, lease, insurance number (or EHIC), and prescriptions.

At the clinic: ask to register as a regular patient. Fill the intake form (contact, brief medical history). Book a baseline check + vaccine update.

At the pharmacy: after the appointment, show the QR from your app/portal. The pharmacist dispenses, scans, and gives you a receipt with any co-pay.

For reimbursement: depending on the country, it's automatic (third-party billing) or you submit invoices (with IBAN).

• Arrive 10 minutes early at your first visit—front desk forms are common.

• Ask for a written summary (plain diagnosis + treatment schedule).

• If language is a barrier, ask whether the clinic uses a phone interpreter; or go with a trusted friend.

• Keep photos of each prescription and pharmacy receipt (handy for private insurers).

• Once registered, explore our complete healthcare guide for long-term coverage options.