Expat Health Insurance in Spain
Clear, Compliant & Tailored Coverage for Your Life in Spain
Getting expat health insurance in Spain should feel clear and stress-free — not overwhelming.
We help you choose the right coverage whether you’re applying for residency, working remotely, studying abroad, or already living here.
You don’t need to know the Spanish healthcare system — that’s our job. Learn how the Spanish healthcare system works →
Fast, clear, and tailored to your needs.
Why Expats Trust Us
Your Expat Health Insurance Partner in Spain
We combine local insurance expertise with a genuine international perspective.
We understand how the Spanish system works — and what it feels like to be navigating it from abroad.
Our support is:
- Human & Personal — Real advisors, not call centers
- Clear & Pressure-Free — We help you choose, you stay in control
- In English & Spanish — Guidance in the language you’re most comfortable with. Speak with An Advisor →
- Visa-Compliant — Plans approved for residency, student & digital nomad visas
- Based on Comparison — We check trusted insurers, you get the best rates
Insurance isn’t just paperwork — it’s support when life happens.
Learn more about Living in Spain with Confidence →
Different Needs, Different Plans
Expat Health Insurance Spain — Plans Tailored to Your Life Here
Choose the plan that aligns with your residency status, lifestyle, and healthcare needs. We guide you step-by-step — no pressure, always clear.
All private medical insurance options for expats in Spain are available with or without copayments.
We’ll explain the difference simply — so you can choose what fits your healthcare usage and budget.
For Non-Lucrative, Golden Visa & Family Reunification applicants
- No copayments, no waiting periods
- Full medical, hospital & emergency coverage
Accepted for Spanish Residency Health Insurance applications
Learn more in our residency visa guide: Residence Visa in Spain – Full Requirements →
Designed for freelancers, remote workers & entrepreneurs
- Full primary + specialist care
- Digital healthcare services included
Visa-compliant certificate provided
See full details: Spain Digital Nomad Visa Guide →
For university & language school students
- No copayments, no waiting periods
- Dental included
Accepted for student visas & renewals
Better access, faster appointments, real support
- Private hospital & clinic network
- With or without copayments
- Support in English & Spanish
Peace of mind for retirees & long-term expats
- Comprehensive medical & hospital care
- No-copayment options available
- Guidance choosing senior-friendly doctors & clinics
Not sure which plan fits best. We help you choose in less than 5 minutes. Get a Free Personalized Recommendation.
Before You Apply for Residency
Requirements for Health Insurance for Residency in Spain
When applying for residency in Spain, your health insurance must meet specific legal requirements. These ensure that your medical coverage is equivalent to the Spanish public healthcare system.
- No co-payments
- No waiting periods
- Full medical, hospital, and emergency coverage
- Valid throughout the entire Spanish territory
- Issued by an insurance provider authorized to operate in Spain
This is the standard required for non-lucrative visa, digital nomad visa, student visa, and most residency permits.
Official Sources:
Ministry of Health of Spain
Official Spanish Immigration Portal
Fast response. No pressure. No obligation.
What Matters when You’re New in Spain
Public vs Private Healthcare in Spain — What Expats Should Know
Spain has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, but the experience differs depending on whether you use the public system or private expat medical coverage in Spain. Here’s what matters most for expats:
Public Healthcare
- Free or low-cost services
- Requires residency & Social Security contributions
- Longer wait times for tests & specialists
- Limited English-speaking support
- No dental coverage
Private Healthcare (with Your Plan)
- Faster specialist & hospital access
- No residency required to start coverage
- Shorter wait times and more appointment availability
- English-speaking doctors and international clinics
- Dental is often included or optional
If you’re applying for a residency visa, student visa, or digital nomad visa, private health insurance is required. It also provides faster appointments and clearer support in English.
Looking for a deeper explanation? See our complete Expat Health Insurance Guide →
Step-by-Step Guidance from Day One
How the Process Works
Getting the right health insurance in Spain doesn’t have to be confusing.
We guide you step-by-step, clearly and without pressure — so you always know what’s happening and why.
Step 1.
Tell Us Your Situation
Just share a few details so we understand what you need.
Step 2.
We Compare the Best Options
We shortlist plans that fit your situation and visa needs.
Step 3.
Choose with Confidence
We explain the differences clearly.
You decide. No pressure.
Step 4.
We Take Care of Setup
We handle activation and any visa-compliant certificates.
Get Support, Not Just a Policy
Speak With a Real Advisor — Not a Call Center
Choosing health insurance in a new country can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to figure it out alone.
We guide you step-by-step, explain everything clearly, and help ensure your plan fits your life in Spain.
From your first question to your first doctor visit — we’re here.
Get Your Personalized Health Insurance Quote in Minutes
No setup fees. No one will try to “sell you” anything. Just real guidance.
Real Experiences from Expats Like You
What Other Expats Say
You’re not the first to navigate health insurance in Spain — and you’re not doing it alone.
Here’s what others say about working with us:
Sarah M., Relocated from California
Residency Visa (Non-Lucrative) – From USA to ValenciaI was overwhelmed trying to understand the residency requirements on my own. UEI explained everything clearly and helped me secure the exact health insurance I needed for my visa appointment. No stress, no confusion. Just real support.
Jonas F., Software Developer
Digital Nomad – From Germany to BarcelonaI work remotely and needed a plan that covered me in Spain while still traveling. UEI compared several options and explained copayments in a way that actually made sense. I chose a plan that fits how I live and work.
Alejandra T., University Exchange Student
Student Visa – From Canada to MadridI needed insurance for my student visa but had no idea where to start. They handled everything — even the documents for the consulate. Super kind, super fast.
Mark H., Retired Teacher
Already Living in Spain – From UK to AlicanteI already had insurance, but the service was terrible. UEI helped me switch to a better plan with English-speaking clinics — and I’m paying less now. I wish I’d found them sooner
Anne R., Retired Nurse
Senior Expat (75+) – From Ireland to MálagaFinding coverage at my age felt impossible until UEI stepped in. They guided me patiently and made sure I understood every detail. I genuinely feel looked after.
Common Questions Answered
FAQ — Expat Health Insurance in Spain
1.Do I need private health insurance to live in Spain?
Yes — expat health insurance in Spain is required for a residency visa, digital nomad visa, student visa, or staying longer than 90 days, you’ll need private health insurance that meets Spanish immigration requirements. Once you become a legal resident and contribute to Social Security, you may be eligible to use the public system.
This type of visa-compliant health insurance ensures you meet the legal requirements while receiving reliable healthcare as a foreigner in Spain.
→ Read how private medical coverage works for foreigners in Spain
2.What are the requirements for residency visa health insurance in Spain?
Your policy must usually include:
No copayments (no “pay when you use” fees)
No waiting periods
Full medical, surgical, hospital & emergency coverage
Valid across all of Spain
Issued by a company authorized to operate in Spain
We make sure the plan you choose is 100% visa compliant.
3.How much does expat health insurance cost in Spain?
Most expats pay €50–€200/month, depending on:
Age
Whether you want with or without copayments
Level of hospital and specialist coverage
We compare options and explain which pricing fits your needs — clearly and without pressure.
4.Can I get health insurance for foreigners in Spain with pre-existing conditions?
Yes — but plan availability varies.
Some insurers accept pre-existing conditions, others do not, and some cover them after a waiting period.
We’ll guide you to the right providers based on your medical history.
We’ll help you explore international medical insurance in Spain options that best match your health needs.
5.What’s the difference between public and private healthcare in Spain?
| Feature | Public Healthcare | Private Healthcare |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free / low cost for residents | Monthly insurance premium |
| Waiting Times | Can be long | Usually fast |
| English-speaking doctors | Not guaranteed | More widely available |
| Residency requirement | Must be a legal resident | Available to non-residents & visa applicants |
| Flexibility choosing doctors | Limited | High flexibility / multiple networks |
→ Learn more: full guide on how expat healthcare works in Spain
6.Do digital nomads need health insurance for the visa?
Yes — you must show a policy that:
Covers all of Spain
Has no copayments
Has no waiting periods
Includes full medical & hospital coverage
→ More details: Spain Digital Nomad Visa Guide
7.I’m already living in Spain. Can I switch insurance providers?
Yes — and many expats do.
We’ll review your current plan, identify gaps (if any), and show alternatives — no pressure to change if you don’t want to.
8.Can seniors (75+) get international health insurance in Spain?
Yes — but plans for seniors are special products that require comparison.
We work directly with senior-friendly providers and explain coverage clearly.
9.Do EU/EEA citizens need private health insurance in Spain?
If you’re visiting short-term, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) may cover medically necessary care. But for residency or long stays, you’ll need to register with Spanish Social Security (if eligible) or take out private health insurance that meets requirements.
→ Learn more: See how the system works
10.How fast can I get my policy and visa certificate?
Usually within 24–48 hours once we have your details—often same day. We prepare the visa-compliant certificate and handle the paperwork so you can book your appointment with confidence.