Moving to Spain
Spain
Expat Guide: Moving to Spain
Moving to Spain as an expatriate is a dream for many, offering a lifestyle filled with rich culture, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed pace of life. However, an essential aspect of planning your move is understanding expat healthcare insurance in Spain. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate this crucial aspect of your relocation.
Healthcare in Spain
Spain’s healthcare system is highly regarded, offering both public and private medical services. The public healthcare system, known as Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), provides free or low-cost healthcare to its residents, including expats who meet certain criteria. However, depending on your residency status and how you're moving to Spain, you may need private healthcare insurance, at least initially.
Healthcare for Expats in Spain
Public Healthcare Eligibility: If you're moving to Spain for work and contributing to the social security system, you'll generally be eligible for public healthcare. However, if you're retiring in Spain or haven’t yet secured employment, you may need private health insurance.
Private Health Insurance: Private healthcare insurance is a popular option for many expats, especially during their initial time in Spain. It offers quicker access to specialists, private hospitals, and often more English-speaking doctors.
Insurance Requirement for Visas: For some visas, including the non-lucrative visa, proof of private health insurance is a requirement. The insurance should cover all risks without co-payments and be valid in Spain.
Choosing the Right Insurance Plan: Look for plans that offer comprehensive coverage, including hospitalization, prescriptions, and possibly repatriation. Also, consider whether you need a policy that covers you in other countries, which can be useful for frequent travelers.
Pre-existing Conditions: Be aware of how different insurance companies handle pre-existing conditions. Some may offer coverage with a higher premium, while others might exclude certain conditions.
Some more information can be found here at the government website
Choosing the Right Private Health Insurance for expats in Spain
So, you can buy Expat Healthcare insurance in your home country and make sure it covers you for use in Spain. This way you can use private healthcare including hospitals and outpatient services. However you can also buy Private medical insurance or PMI in the Spain. This will allow you the same access. Whichever option you decided to select, it's crucial to consider several factors, when choosing a private health insurance provider in the UK:
Coverage Scope: Assess the extent of coverage needed, including international coverage if you travel frequently.
Pre-existing Conditions: Understand how the policy addresses pre-existing medical conditions.
Cost: Consider premiums, deductibles, and co-payments, and how they fit into your budget.
Provider Network: Look into the network of hospitals and doctors covered by the insurance plan.
Additional Benefits: Some plans offer extra services like wellness programs, mental health support, or online health consultations.
Domestic Private Medical Insurers in Spain
Spain has a variety of private medical insurance companies offering a range of health insurance products tailored to both residents and expatriates. Some of the well-known private medical insurance providers in Spain include:
1. Sanitas - Part of the Bupa Group, Sanitas is one of the leading health insurance companies in Spain, offering comprehensive health plans with access to a wide network of private doctors and hospitals. Get a Quote
2. ASISA - ASISA provides a broad array of health insurance options, including dental and international coverage, with a strong emphasis on personalized care and a vast network of medical professionals. Get a Quote
3. DKV Seguros - DKV offers a variety of health insurance plans with different levels of coverage, including preventive health services and innovative digital health solutions. Get a Quote
4. Mapfre - A globally recognized insurance company, Mapfre provides extensive health insurance solutions in Spain, featuring flexible plans and access to a large network of healthcare facilities. Get a Quote
5. Adeslas - Part of the SegurCaixa Holding, Adeslas is known for its wide range of health insurance products and services, catering to individual, family, and corporate needs with an extensive network of healthcare providers. Get a Quote
6. AXA - AXA's health insurance offerings in Spain include comprehensive coverage options, preventive health programs, and access to a broad network of medical professionals and facilities. Get a Quote
7. CignaSalud - Cigna offers health insurance solutions tailored to expats living in Spain, with customizable plans that include access to a global network of healthcare providers. Get a Quote
It's advisable to thoroughly research and compare the plans, coverage options, network of healthcare providers, and customer service ratings of these companies to find the best health insurance solution for your needs in Spain.
How to use the Spanish Healthcare system as an Expat?
Navigating the Spanish healthcare system as an expat involves understanding its structure and knowing how to access services. Spain offers a high-quality healthcare system that includes both public and private sectors.
Registering for Healthcare: As an expat, your eligibility for Spain's public healthcare depends on your residency status and employment situation. If you're employed or self-employed in Spain and contribute to the Spanish social security system, you're entitled to public healthcare. Upon registration, you'll receive a social security number, which is key to accessing healthcare services.
Healthcare Card (Tarjeta Sanitaria): Once registered with the social security system, apply for a healthcare card at your local health center. This card is essential for scheduling appointments, seeing a doctor, and accessing emergency services.
Choosing a Primary Care Doctor: In the public system, you'll need to choose a general practitioner (GP) at your local health center. This doctor will be your first point of contact for health issues and can refer you to specialists.
Specialists and Hospitals: Access to specialists typically requires a referral from your GP. In emergencies, you can go directly to the hospital's emergency department.
Private Healthcare: Many expats opt for private health insurance to complement the public system, reduce waiting times, and access a broader network of specialists and hospitals. Private insurance can be particularly useful for those not covered by the public system or seeking quicker access to certain services.
Pharmacies: Medications are usually obtained from pharmacies with a doctor's prescription. Costs may be partially or fully covered if you're registered with the public healthcare system.
Dental Care: Dental care is primarily private in Spain, with costs generally not covered by the public healthcare system, making private health insurance or direct payment necessary for dental services.
Understanding these steps and maintaining valid health insurance, whether public or private, will ensure you can effectively use the Spanish healthcare system and enjoy your time as an expat in Spain.