Health Insurance
Essential information on health insurance options for residents in Spain, from selecting the plan to ensuring your well-being while living abroad.
To get health insurance for a foreigner living and working in Spain, there are a few steps you can follow:
​
-
For public healthcare: Register with Seguridad Social (via employer or self-registration).
-
For private healthcare: Choose and sign up with a provider.
-
EHIC: Provides emergency coverage if you're temporarily in Spain.
​​
Public Health Insurance
​
Public Health Insurance (Seguridad Social) applies for every foreigner working in Spain who:
-
Carries an Employment contract (self-employed or employed).
-
Has a Foreigner's Identification Number (NIE).
-
Has an Employer registration (if employed) or self-registration (if self-employed).
​​
To apply for public health insurance you must visit the Seguridad Social office or apply online with your NIE, passport, and work contract. Once registered, you'll have access to Spain's public healthcare.
​
Private Healthcare
​
If you want extra coverage or quicker access, you can opt for paid private health insurance from providers like Sanitas, Adeslas, Asisa, and DKV Seguros.
​​
EHIC
​
You can also use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for basic emergency services in Spain. It covers public healthcare, but not everything (e.g., long-term care or specialists). Present your EHIC when visiting a doctor or hospital for emergency treatment. For private care, you’ll need private insurance.