Find the Right Health Insurance for Your Move to Spain
Whether you need coverage for a visa application, want access to private healthcare, or are looking for the most affordable option—we'll help you choose.
What's your situation?
Digital Nomad or Remote Worker
Need coverage for the Digital Nomad Visa or flexible international insurance
Retiree (Non-Lucrative Visa)
Need comprehensive coverage that meets visa requirements for retirees
Employed in Spain
Have public healthcare through work, considering private as supplement
EU Citizen Moving to Spain
Can use EHIC temporarily, need to understand long-term options
Compare Your Options
The right choice depends on your visa type, age, health needs, and budget.
Spanish Public Healthcare
Via employment or convenio especial
- Full hospital coverage
- Prescriptions heavily subsidized
- Covers pre-existing conditions
- Longer wait times for specialists
- Not accepted for visa applications
Employed residents, EU citizens with S1 form, those who qualify for convenio especial
Private Health Insurance
Varies by age, coverage level
- Accepted for all visa types
- Fast access to specialists
- English-speaking doctors available
- Private hospital rooms
- Pre-existing condition waiting periods
Visa applicants, long-term residents, anyone wanting private care access
International Health Insurance
Worldwide coverage options
- Coverage in multiple countries
- Medical evacuation included
- Ideal for frequent travelers
- More expensive than local options
- May not meet visa requirements
Digital nomads, frequent travelers, those splitting time between countries
Top Providers for Expats in Spain
These insurers are known for accepting expats and providing English-language support.
1 Spanish Private Insurers Visa-Compliant
Sanitas
Part of Bupa global network
One of Spain's largest private insurers. Extensive network of clinics and hospitals. Popular with expats for English support and international claims experience.
Adeslas
Largest network in Spain
Spain's most extensive provider network with over 44,000 medical professionals. Good for those living outside major cities.
Mapfre
Spanish insurance giant
Competitive pricing with solid coverage. Good option for budget-conscious expats who want a reputable Spanish insurer.
Asisa
No waiting periods option
Known for accepting pre-existing conditions with shorter waiting periods. Good choice if you have health history concerns.
2 International Insurers Global Coverage
Cigna Global
Premium international coverage
Comprehensive worldwide coverage with excellent customer service. Ideal for high-income expats who travel frequently.
Get a quoteAllianz Care
Flexible international plans
Modular plans let you customize coverage. Strong in Europe with good Spain-specific options.
Get a quoteSafetyWing
Popular with digital nomads
Affordable travel medical insurance designed for remote workers. Easy online signup, flexible monthly billing.
Get a quoteWorld Nomads
Adventure travel coverage
Good for short-term stays and adventure activities. Can extend while abroad. Not ideal for long-term residency.
Get a quoteInsurance Requirements by Visa Type
Digital Nomad Visa
Requires private health insurance valid in Spain with no copays or deductibles for the visa application. Spanish private insurers (Sanitas, Adeslas) are safest. Some consulates accept international plans.
Recommended: Spanish private insurance with "sin copago" (no copay) plan
Non-Lucrative Visa (Retirees)
Must have comprehensive private health insurance that covers all medical expenses. No deductibles or copays. Coverage must be valid for the visa duration (minimum 1 year).
Recommended: Spanish private insurance with full coverage, or Cigna Global for those who travel frequently
EU Citizens
Can use EHIC for temporary coverage. For permanent residence, must either work (social security) or buy private insurance to register. S1 form transfers home country coverage.
Recommended: Register for Spanish social security through employment, or buy affordable Spanish private plan
Work Visa / Employed
Employment automatically enrolls you in Spanish social security (public healthcare). Private insurance is optional but many expats add it for faster specialist access.
Recommended: Public healthcare is sufficient; add private for convenience if budget allows
Need Help Choosing?
Get personalized recommendations based on your visa type, age, and healthcare needs.