How Can American Get Spanish Health Insurance?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Foreign employees working for Spanish companies or self-employed foreigners in Spain usually have to

contribute to Spanish social security (seguridad social)

. This entitles them and their families to receive free or subsidised medical care on the same terms as Spanish residents.

Can I pay into the Spanish healthcare system?


Spanish regional health authorities offer a pay-in scheme for health care services

. This is called ‘Convenio Especial' and should be available from a local social security office. This is a public health care insurance scheme that is available throughout Spain to enable expats to access state-run health care.

Can I get free healthcare in Spain?

All EU and European Economic Area (EEA) nationals below retirement age who visit Spain for a short holiday are entitled to free or reduced-cost emergency medical healthcare and treatments at all Spanish public medical centres and hospitals on production of a valid European Card (EHIC).

Do expats living in Spain get free healthcare?

As an expat, you are currently entitled to free state healthcare if you are: Resident in Spain and work in employment or self-employment and pay social security contributions, A state pensioner, or. Staying temporarily in Spain and have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Can I live in Spain post Brexit?

Can I still move to Spain now that the Brexit transition period has ended?

Yes, you can still apply for residency in Spain like other non-EU nationals

. There may be preferential rules introduced for UK nationals.

How much is private health care in Spain?

According to a study carried out by Eroski on 10 insurance companies in Spain based on 480 quotes, prices for a basic policy for a single 35 year old with no children can range from €26 to €50/month, with the

average cost of private health insurance in Spain coming in at around €35

.

How do I register with a doctor in Spain?

In order to register with a doctor,

you need a Spanish social security number, to be registered with your local town council (ayuntamiento), and show photo ID

. Your registration paper from the town hall (empadronamiento) must be less than three months old. See details on how to register at your local ayuntamiento here.

How good is Spain's healthcare?

Spain's single-payer health care system is

ranked seventh best in the world by the World Health Organization

. The system offers universal coverage as a constitutionally-guaranteed right and no out-of-pocket expenses — aside from prescription drugs.

Can I get residency in Spain if I buy a house?


Yes, you can get residency in Spain after buying a house

, and that is thanks to the golden visa scheme. Since 2013, non-EU citizens who purchase a property in the Spanish territory can get a 2-year residence permit (that can be renewed) as long as the property investment is at least € 500.000.

Do I need private health insurance to live in Spain?


If you've lived in Spain for less than one year and cannot get healthcare cover, you'll need to buy private health insurance

.

Can I live in Spain and claim benefits?

According to the UK's Foreign Commonwealth office,

unemployment benefits can only be claimed if one has been working in Spain and paying tax contributions

. The necessary forms can be found at any employment office in Spain, and one should also state any prior contributions that may have been paid in the UK.

How much money do I need for Spanish residency?

You must have income of

at least €25,560 annually, plus €6,390 per each additional family member

. Income may be derived from investments, annuities, sabbaticals and any other sources of income. The visa issued will have a validity of three months and fifteen days, with multiple entries and 90 days of stay in Spain.

Can I move to Spain in 2021?


Anyone who established legal residence in Spain before the end of the year retains the right to remain resident in Spain and can apply for permanent residence after five years

. The agreement states that although you need to be resident in Spain by 31

st

December, you have until 30

th

June 2021 to apply for residence.

How can I legally move to Spain?

  1. A filled out visa application form.
  2. Visa fee of €80.
  3. Valid passport with 3 months validity and current residence permit.
  4. Proof of residence in Spain (Empadronamiento).
  5. Proof of funds, either via savings or employment.
  6. Spanish health insurance.
  7. In some cases, police records from Spain or USA.

Is health insurance mandatory in Spain?

The Spanish healthcare system ranks among the best in the world. Social security payments fund the system, meaning that

most residents don't require private insurance to access health services

.

Which is the best private health insurance in Spain?

  • We suggest you get a quote from ASSSA as one of your options. Their range, support, service, and price are excellent. …
  • Sanitas is the other popular option for Healthcare. They are part of the BUPA network which many people are familiar with in other countries.

What are the pros and cons of Spain's healthcare system?

  • Pro: Expert doctors and services. …
  • Con: Different doctors each visit. …
  • Pro: Most prescriptions are covered or discounted. …
  • Con: Language barrier. …
  • Pro: You can go to any hospital to give birth. …
  • Con: Delays and a lack of flexibility.

Can US doctors practice in Spain?


US doctors who attended accredited medical schools in the US and completed a residency program can practice medicine in Spain without taking any particular exam

.

Can I get my prescription in Spain?

Getting prescriptions


Prescription medicines are not free in Spain

. With an EHIC or GHIC you get a reduced rate, but you'll still pay: 50% of the prescription price. 10% of the prescription price if you have a UK State Pension ‒ you may need to show proof that you're a pensioner to pay this rate.

How do I get a Social Security card in Spain?

  1. Obtain the digital certificate. In order to apply online, you must first obtain a digital certificate. …
  2. Go to the website. …
  3. Fill in the standard application form and attach the required documentation. …
  4. Obtain a social security number. …
  5. Register with the social security system.
James Park
Author
James Park
Dr. James Park is a medical doctor and health expert with a focus on disease prevention and wellness. He has written several publications on nutrition and fitness, and has been featured in various health magazines. Dr. Park's evidence-based approach to health will help you make informed decisions about your well-being.