🌍 Health Insurance and Visa Requirements in Over 190 Countries — What Every Expat Needs to Know

Introduction

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.

Moving abroad is exciting, but navigating healthcare and insurance laws can be confusing. In many destinations, having valid health insurance isn’t just about peace of mind — it’s a legal requirement for obtaining a visa or residency.

To make things easier, ExpatInsure has compiled links to healthcare insurance requirements in over 190 countries. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or adventure, this global overview helps you stay compliant and protected wherever you go.

✅ What you’ll find inside:

A country-by-country breakdown of health insurance requirements
Whether local or international coverage is accepted
Links to official government and consulate sources

💡 Why this matters:

Many countries require proof of insurance before issuing visas
Some have specific minimum coverage levels or approved providers
Without proper coverage, you risk visa delays — or paying out-of-pocket for emergencies abroad

The world is open — but each destination has its own rules. Before you board that plane, make sure your health insurance meets your new home’s standards.

👉 Explore the full list of over 190 countries here: Healthcare Insurance Requirements Worldwide

👉 Explore our full Country Guides for top expat destinations here: Country Guides

👉 Explore the top 10 best international hospitals for expats here: Hospital Guides

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.

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.

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