Health Insurance in Spain for Expats

Many expats in Spain opt for private health insurance to complement or replace public healthcare. This guide helps you choose the right coverage.

Do You Need Private Health Insurance?

You may need private health insurance in Spain if you:

• Don't qualify for public healthcare (non-lucrative visa holders)
• Want faster access to specialists and procedures
• Prefer English-speaking doctors
• Need comprehensive dental care
• Want choice of hospitals and doctors
• Are applying for certain visas (insurance required)

Best Health Insurance Providers

Top health insurance companies in Spain:

• Sanitas: Largest provider, excellent coverage, English support
• Adeslas: Wide hospital network, good value
• Asisa: Competitive prices, comprehensive coverage
• DKV: Premium service, international coverage
• Cigna: International provider, expat-friendly
• AXA: Good for families, dental options

Types of Coverage

Health insurance plans in Spain:

• Basic (Básico):
  • GP and specialist visits
  • Diagnostic tests
  • Emergency care
  • Cost: €50-70/month
• Standard (Completo):
  • All basic coverage
  • Hospital stays
  • Surgery
  • Maternity care
  • Cost: €80-120/month
• Premium (Premium):
  • All standard coverage
  • Dental care
  • Physiotherapy
  • Alternative medicine
  • International coverage
  • Cost: €150-250/month

Cost of Health Insurance

Health insurance costs vary by:

• Age: Premiums increase with age (€50 at 30, €150+ at 65)
• Coverage level: Basic to premium
• Pre-existing conditions: May increase cost or be excluded
• Deductible: Higher deductible = lower premium
• Family vs individual: Family plans offer discounts

Average costs:

• Individual (30-40 years): €60-100/month
• Individual (50-60 years): €100-180/month
• Couple: €120-250/month
• Family (2 adults + 2 children): €180-350/month

What's Covered vs Not Covered

Typically covered:

• GP and specialist consultations
• Diagnostic tests (blood work, X-rays, MRI)
• Hospital stays and surgery
• Emergency care
• Maternity care (after waiting period)
• Prescription medications (partial)

Often NOT covered:

• Pre-existing conditions (first 6-12 months)
• Cosmetic procedures
• Dental (unless premium plan)
• Mental health (limited coverage)
• Experimental treatments
• Chronic conditions diagnosed before policy start

How to Choose the Right Plan

Consider these factors when choosing health insurance:

• Your health needs: Chronic conditions, regular medications
• Budget: Balance premium cost with coverage
• Hospital network: Check which hospitals are included
• English-speaking doctors: Important for many expats
• Waiting periods: Some treatments have 6-12 month waits
• Dental coverage: Add if needed (often separate)
• Repatriation: Coverage for medical transport home