Becoming an Expat in Spain: Volume 12

Spanish Healthcare and Private Health Insurance

The Spanish healthcare system is ranked 3rd in Europe behind Denmark and France.

If you work in Spain as a self-employed or employed individual, you are eligible for free healthcare.

You are also eligible if:

• You are under the age of 15;

• A student under the age of 26;

• In receipt of state benefits;

• Retired with a state pension;

• The spouse or partner of someone registered for social security benefits.

UK Expats can access free healthcare with their EHIC card.

If you are retiring in Spain, you will need to compete an S1 form.

The state cover for dentistry and mental health care is poor so private health insurance is advised for these conditions and anyone not included in the list above must also obtain private health insurance.

Pensioners and those working in Spain will be issued a SIPP card and all other eligible individuals will be issued a TSI card.

To register for your card, you will need to do so online at the social security e-office and obtain your certificate which you then take to your local health centre – you will be required to produce a Valid passport or other form of official ID, and an up to date proof of registration at your local town hall (Padron).

Your card will be posted to you within 2-3 weeks

If choosing private health cover, ensure the provider is accredited by The Office Colleges of Physicians (Consejo General de Colegios Oficiales de Medicos).

Private health insurance typically costs between 50€ and 200€ per month depending on age and existing medical conditions.