There are two main types of health insurance available in Spain: public and private. Choosing between them can be a difficult task, as each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. To make an informed decision, it is important to understand the key differences and consider your own needs.
This information will be useful for both residents and those who are just planning to move to Spain.
What you should know about insurance for foreigners
- Medical insurance in Spain is required in almost all cases.
- To apply for most types of visas and residence permits (e.g. Digital Nomad…) private insurance is a prerequisite.
- Often it is necessary to issue it for several years of residence at once.
- Private insurance can be a beneficial choice for long-term living in Spain.
Public vs private medicine
Public health (Seguridad Social) is available to Spanish citizens and foreigners who are officially employed and pay contributions to the social security system. It is one of the best healthcare systems in the world, but it also has its difficulties. More information about how to get SIP in Spain for Ukrainians was written here in the article.
Private medicine (Seguro privado) has become a popular choice for more than a quarter of Spaniards - many use both systems in parallel. It is also private insurance that is a prerequisite for obtaining most types of residence permits.
Main differences
- Access to doctors and hospitals
In the private system, you can go straight to a specialist without a referral from your GP. You can often find doctors who speak English or even other languages. In the public system, you need to see your family doctor first. - Waiting time
In public clinics, an appointment with a specialist can take months (sometimes 6–8 months), while in private clinics it usually takes up to 2 weeks. - Comfort
In private hospitals, conditions are more comfortable, individual wards are possible, and a personalized approach is possible. - Additional services
Private insurance often includes dentistry, physiotherapy, a psychologist, or travel assistance — this is not available in the public system.
For visas and residence permits - special requirements
For submission to non-profit visa (no lucrativa), student visa or digital nomad visa a prerequisite is insurance without co-payments and waiting periods (sin copago, sin carencias)This type of insurance fully meets the requirements of Spanish consulates.
It covers:
- consultations of doctors of all specialties,
- analyzes and diagnostic studies,
- hospitalization and surgeries,
- emergency assistance,
- repatriation.
And most importantly, there are no restrictions on financial coverage.
Who will help you get insurance in Spain?
Medical insurance in Spain varies greatly in terms of conditions, and it is important to choose the policy that is right for your situation - whether it is applying for a residence permit, a student visa, or simply a desire to have quick access to quality medicine.
Olesya Brych — official insurance agent of the company DKV in Spain. She will help you choose a policy that suits your needs:
- for the whole family,
- for obtaining a visa or residence permit,
- for the elderly,
- for those who want Spanish private medicine without queues and unnecessary hassle.
You can find all the details on the website. seguro.expert or fill out the form right here to get a free consultation and calculation.
