1. How good is healthcare in Spain?
Spain’s healthcare system consistently ranks among the top 10 in the world for accessibility, quality, and longevity. Public hospitals are modern and efficient, while private clinics provide fast, multilingual service. Most expats find care excellent once registered with the local system.
2. How is healthcare structured in Spain?
There are two systems:
- Public healthcare (Sistema Nacional de Salud – SNS): funded by taxes and free at the point of use for residents.
- Private healthcare: paid via insurance or out-of-pocket for faster access or English-speaking doctors.
Many expats combine both — using the public system for general care and private coverage for flexibility.
3. Who can access public healthcare in Spain?
- Residents working in Spain (employed or self-employed) contribute automatically through social security.
- EU citizens with the EHIC card can receive temporary coverage.
- Non-EU residents need to apply for coverage after becoming residents or show private insurance during the visa process.
Retirees from the EU often access public care via the S1 form from their home country.
4. What does public healthcare cover?
It includes:
- GP visits and specialist consultations
- Emergency care and hospitalization
- Surgery and maternity services
- Preventive screenings and vaccinations
- Prescriptions (with co-payment of 10–60% based on income)
Dental care is mostly private, except for children in some regions.
5. How much does private health insurance cost in Spain?
Premiums vary by age, region, and coverage:
- Adults (under 45): €45–€70/month
- Adults (45–65): €70–€120/month
- Retirees (65+): €120–€250/month
Family plans often include discounts. We help clients choose policies that meet visa and residency requirements (100% coverage, no copayments).
6. Can I use my private insurance immediately after moving?
Yes. Private insurers activate coverage as soon as the contract is signed and the first premium paid. For visa purposes, proof of payment and full coverage is required. We coordinate policy selection and documentation with approved insurers.
7. Do I need health insurance to apply for a Spanish visa?
Yes. All non-EU visa applicants — including Non-Lucrative Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, and Family Reunification — must show a Spanish-compliant private health insurance policy covering all risks, with no copayments or waiting periods.
8. How much does a doctor’s visit cost without insurance?
Private GP consultations range from €40–€70, specialists €60–€120, and dental visits around €50–€80. Many clinics offer multilingual service and same-day appointments.
9. How expensive are prescriptions in Spain?
Spain has one of Europe’s lowest prescription costs. Common medications (antibiotics, cholesterol or blood pressure drugs) typically cost €5–€20 with prescription. Under the public system, residents pay 10–60% depending on income bracket.
10. How do I register for public healthcare once I become a resident?
- Obtain your Social Security Number (Número de la Seguridad Social).
- Register your address (empadronamiento).
- Visit your local health centre (centro de salud) with ID, residence card (TIE), and proof of registration.
You’ll be assigned a family doctor (médico de cabecera) and can access specialists via referral.
11. Can I choose my doctor or hospital?
Yes. Within the public system, you can choose your local doctor and request changes later. In private care, you can select any clinic or specialist directly, usually without referral.
12. Are emergency services free in Spain?
Yes — emergency care is free for everyone, including visitors and undocumented individuals. Call 112 for ambulance and emergency response anywhere in Spain.
13. What are waiting times like?
Public healthcare can involve waiting periods for non-urgent specialist appointments (typically 2–8 weeks). Private care provides same-week or same-day access for most services.
14. Is dental care covered by public insurance?
Generally not. Adults pay privately for dental check-ups and treatment. Routine visits cost €40–€60, while crowns or implants are €300–€1,200. Children’s preventive care may be included in some regions.
15. How does maternity and childbirth care work in Spain?
Public maternity care is comprehensive and free for residents. Prenatal check-ups, delivery, and postpartum care are covered. Private clinics offer shorter waits and private rooms, usually costing €2,000–€4,000 for full packages if uninsured.
16. How does healthcare quality compare between regions?
All regions meet national standards, but Madrid, Valencia, Catalonia, and Navarra consistently rank highest for hospital quality and patient satisfaction. Rural areas have fewer facilities but excellent emergency coverage.
17. What’s the cost of hospitalization in Spain without insurance?
Private hospitals charge roughly €200–€400 per night for standard care, plus procedure costs. Emergency treatment for non-insured foreigners can reach €3,000–€10,000 depending on complexity — hence the importance of insurance.
18. How do I find English-speaking doctors or specialists?
Most private hospitals in major cities (Madrid, Valencia, Málaga, Alicante) have English-speaking doctors. In smaller towns, you can request translators or use international clinics. We provide a directory of English-speaking healthcare providers to all clients.
19. How does the healthcare system support retirees?
Spain’s healthcare is highly attractive for retirees:
- EU retirees can use the S1 form for free access.
- Non-EU retirees are covered via private insurance initially, and may later join the public system after residency.
Healthcare satisfaction among retirees in Spain remains among Europe’s highest.
20. How does Livin’España assist clients with healthcare setup?
We guide clients through:
- Selecting approved insurance for visa and residence.
- Registering with public healthcare once settled.
- Finding English-speaking doctors and clinics.
- Coordinating documentation for the visa or residency file.
Our team ensures every client — from young professionals to retirees — is legally covered and comfortable with Spain’s healthcare system from day one.