How to Choose Expat Health Insurance in Spain: Step-by-Step Guide
- Franco Coetzee
- May 19
- 9 min read
Updated: May 26
If you're relocating to Spain, securing private health insurance is mandatory for visa and residency applications. Spain's healthcare system includes public (SNS) and private options, but expats often rely on private insurance for faster access, English-speaking doctors, and comprehensive coverage.
Key Points:
- Visa Requirement: Private insurance must cover hospitalization, emergency care, and repatriation, with no co-payments or waiting periods.
- Cost: Annual premiums range from $760 to $3,260, depending on age and coverage level.
- Benefits of Private Insurance:
- Shorter wait times
- Access to English-speaking professionals
- Flexible doctor and specialist choices
- Popular Providers: DKV offers plans tailored to expats, starting at $90/month.
Quick Comparison of DKV Plans:
Plan Type | Copayments | Best For | Monthly Cost |
Elite | No | Retirees needing regular care | ~$138 |
Classic | Low | Young professionals | ~$90 |
Complet | Higher | Healthy individuals | ~$54 |
Private insurance ensures you meet legal requirements and gain peace of mind during your stay in Spain. Ready to start? Follow this guide to choose the right plan for you.
The Ultimate Guide to Health Insurance for Expats in Spain
Step 1: Spain's Healthcare System Basics
Spain's healthcare system operates through two main channels: the public (SNS) and private healthcare providers.
Public and Private Healthcare Options
The SNS serves about 90% of residents who contribute to social security, offering extensive medical care at minimal out-of-pocket costs. However, newly arrived expats often face restrictions when accessing this system.
Private healthcare, on the other hand, comes with several perks:
Feature | Benefits of Private Healthcare |
Wait Times | Significantly shorter wait times |
Language | Availability of English-speaking medical professionals |
Facilities | Modern amenities, including private hospital rooms |
Coverage | Includes services like dental and vision care |
Flexibility | Freedom to select doctors and specialists |
Private healthcare costs typically range from $54 to $217 per month, depending on factors like age and the level of coverage.
Before proceeding, it’s essential to understand the specific health insurance requirements tied to Spanish visas and residency.
Insurance Rules for Visas and Residency
If you’re applying for Spanish residency or a visa, your health insurance must meet strict legal criteria:
Requirement | Description |
Coverage Scope | Must provide full medical coverage with no exclusions |
Co-payments | Policies with co-payments are not accepted |
Territorial Validity | Coverage must apply throughout Spain |
Duration | Must remain valid for the entire visa or residency period |
Documentation | Policy details must be presented in Spanish |
Provider Status | Insurer must be authorized to operate in Spain |
"If you have had a diagnosis and/or treatment of a serious medical condition in the last five years, please determine your eligibility for Spanish healthcare coverage (without exclusions) before proceeding with the visa application process." – Greg C., Moving to Spain Client
For non-EU citizens, most Spanish consulates now require proof of a 12-month health insurance contract. Be sure to confirm these requirements with your local Spanish consulate.
Spain’s healthcare system is often ranked among the best globally, contributing to the country’s impressive life expectancy of 83 years. While the public system is highly regarded, private insurance ensures expats can access top-tier medical care right away, bypassing the waiting period for public healthcare eligibility. This overview provides a foundation for choosing the right insurance to meet both legal and personal healthcare needs.
Step 2: Determine Your Coverage Needs
Understanding what influences coverage and costs is crucial for selecting the health insurance plan that fits your needs.
Key Coverage Areas to Consider
When comparing plans, focus on these important coverage types:
Coverage Type | What It Includes | Cost Impact |
Primary Care | Regular check-ups and preventive care | Base coverage |
Hospitalization | Emergency services and comprehensive care | Major cost factor |
Specialist Care | Access to English-speaking specialists | Moderate cost increase |
Prescription Coverage | Coverage for ongoing medication needs | Varies by plan |
Dental Care | Options from basic to advanced dental services | $10–20/month add-on |
International Coverage | Coverage for frequent international travel | Premium upgrade |
Be sure any plan you choose complies with mandatory visa requirements. For expats, DKV Health Insurance offers plans specifically designed to meet these needs.
"If you're moving to Spain on a visa or residency permit, having private health insurance is mandatory. Without it, your application will be rejected. But beyond being a requirement, having good health coverage gives you peace of mind in case you need medical care while in Spain."
DKV Plans for Different Lifestyles
DKV Health Insurance provides options tailored to various expat profiles, taking into account age, health needs, and lifestyle.
DKV Integral PlansThese plans cater to different needs and budgets:
- Elite (no copayment): Best for retirees or those needing regular medical care.
- Classic (low copayment): A great fit for young professionals.
- Complet (higher copayment): A more affordable choice for generally healthy individuals.
Starting in 2025, DKV plans will feature pricing discounts, beginning with savings of up to 35%, gradually reducing to 10% by 2030.
Age-Specific Recommendations
- Ages 18–34: Basic coverage often suffices, as only about 18% of this group report pre-existing conditions.
- Ages 35–54: Consider enhanced coverage since health risks typically increase in this age range.
- Ages 55 and older: Comprehensive plans are ideal, with approximately 44% of individuals in this group having pre-existing conditions.
DKV ResidentesFor $138/month, DKV Residentes reimburses medical costs and provides access to over 51,000 doctors and 1,000 healthcare centers across Spain.
Benefits for Families
DKV plans also offer family-friendly features, including:
- Discounts for multiple family members
- Coverage for dependents under a single policy
- Access to pediatric specialists
- 24/7 medical chat and video consultations
The "Activa DKV" app simplifies managing appointments, submitting claims, and accessing medical records, making it easier to stay on top of your health needs.
Step 3: Review Plans and Costs
Now that you've identified your coverage needs, it's time to dive into the details of plan features and pricing.
Main Coverage Features
DKV offers extensive healthcare options tailored for expats in Spain, featuring a network of over 51,000 medical professionals and 1,000 medical centers across the country.
Core Medical Benefits
DKV plans include a wide range of essential healthcare services:
- Primary and specialist care
- Hospitalization and surgeries
- Emergency services
- Diagnostic tests and treatments
- Preventive care programs
- 24/7 video consultations and medical chat
- Free dental coverage
- Worldwide travel assistance for trips up to 180 days, with coverage up to $32,700
Additional Support Services
Beyond the basics, DKV plans also provide:
- Up to 40 psychology sessions
- Second medical opinion services
- Digital health management through the Quiero Cuidarme Más app
- English-speaking customer support
- Podiatry and physiotherapy services
Once you've reviewed these features, the next step is to understand the cost structure and available discounts.
Price Structure Breakdown
DKV premiums are determined by factors such as age, health history, and the specific coverage options you select. Monthly premiums range from $90 to over $600, with policies for individuals aged 75 and older starting at $384.
Copayment Options
DKV offers three copayment tiers, allowing flexibility based on your budget and usage:
- Élite: No copayments
- Classic: Low copayments (e.g., around $2.50 for general medicine and $3.80 for specialists)
- Complet: Higher copayments (e.g., approximately $14.70 for general medicine and $25 for specialists)
Available Discounts
DKV provides several ways to save on premiums:
- Family discount: Save 7% when insuring four members, and 12% for five or more.
- Payment frequency discounts:
- Annual payment: 7% savings
- Semi-annual payment: 4.6% savings
- Quarterly payment: 2.8% savings
Additionally, graduated discounts will be introduced starting in 2025:
- 2025: 35% discount
- 2026: 30% discount
- 2027: 25% discount
- 2028: 20% discount
- 2029: 15% discount
- 2030: 10% discount
Important Policy Terms
Here are some key terms to keep in mind:
- Maximum entry age: 75 years
- Lifetime policy guarantee after three years
- Upfront payment required for visa compliance
- Free dental coverage included
- Policies cannot be canceled due to age or usage after three years
Step 4: Sign Up for Coverage
Once you've reviewed the plan details and costs, it's time to complete your enrollment. Here's how to get it done.
Required Documents
Before starting your DKV insurance application, make sure you have these key documents ready:
Identification Documents
- A valid passport
- NIE (Foreigner Identity Number), if you already have it
- Proof of residence in Spain (if applicable)
- Current visa documentation
Additional Requirements
- Medical history records
- Proof of address for receiving documentation
- Bank details for setting up premium payments
Your policy must include at least €30,000 in coverage to meet Spanish visa requirements.
DKV Application Steps
Once your documents are ready, follow these steps to complete your application without hassle:
- Initial ContactReach out to DKV through their online platform or request a callback from an English-speaking advisor.
- Application SubmissionFill out the online form with your full name (as it appears on your passport), current address, contact information, and the date you’d like your coverage to begin.
- Medical AssessmentAnswer all medical history questions honestly. If you have pre-existing conditions, you may need to:
- Provide additional medical documents
- Allow extra time for the review process
- Submit recent test results
- Policy Review and PaymentCarefully review the policy terms, double-check your details, choose your payment schedule, and sign the necessary documents.
- Documentation ReceiptOnce everything is finalized, you’ll receive:
- Your DKV MEDICARD
- A detailed medical directory
- An insurance certificate for visa purposes
- A signed copy of the terms and conditions
Important Timing Tips
- Start your application 2-3 months before your desired coverage start date.
- Standard processing usually takes 3-4 days.
- If you’re applying for a visa, begin early to ensure you receive your certification on time.
Next Steps After Getting Insurance
Once you've secured your DKV health insurance policy, here’s how to make the most of your coverage and ensure smooth access to healthcare in Spain.
Set Up Digital Access
Start by downloading the . This app is your go-to hub for managing your healthcare needs in one place. Through the app, you can:
- Access your digital medical card.
- Browse directories of doctors and medical centers.
- Handle authorizations and reimbursement requests.
- Schedule video consultations with specialists.
- Receive electronic prescriptions.
- Use the 24-hour medical chat for immediate support.
- View your medical history in the digital health folder.
Emergency Preparedness
Save the 24/7 emergency number - 900 300 799 - from your MEDICARD to your phone. This ensures you can quickly get assistance when needed.
Understanding Your Coverage Timeline
Your DKV policy becomes active right away, meaning you can start using most services immediately. Here’s what you can access without delay:
- Specialist consultations
- Emergency care
- Diagnostic tests
- Video medical consultations
Important Coverage Notes
Keep these specific conditions in mind:
- Maternity care: There’s an 8-month waiting period if the pregnancy begins after you enroll.
- Prescription medications: These are generally not included in standard coverage.
- Vision care: Glasses and contact lenses typically require additional coverage.
Using the app can help you manage these aspects efficiently.
Healthcare Access Tips
To ensure a smooth experience, verify that your healthcare provider accepts DKV insurance. With DKV, you’ll benefit from:
- Access to English-speaking medical professionals.
- The ability to consult specialists directly - no referrals needed.
- Faster appointment scheduling.
Your digital tools make it easier to manage appointments, request prescriptions, and access your healthcare records. By staying proactive, you can fully integrate your insurance into your daily healthcare routine.
FAQs
What health insurance do I need for a visa or residency in Spain?
To apply for a visa or residency in Spain, having private health insurance that meets certain criteria is a must. Here’s what your policy needs to include:
- Full medical coverage: It should cover all healthcare expenses, with no copayments or limits on hospitalization.
- Validity for the visa duration: Typically, this means the policy should be valid for 12 months.
- Nationwide coverage: The insurance must provide protection across all of Spain.
- Issued by an approved provider: The company must be authorized to operate within Spain.
This requirement applies to most long-term visas, like the Non-Lucrative Visa or the Golden Visa. Double-check that your policy fulfills these conditions to avoid any hiccups in your application process.
How can I choose the right DKV health insurance plan to fit my lifestyle and healthcare needs in Spain?
Choosing the Right DKV Health Insurance Plan in Spain
Finding the right DKV health insurance plan in Spain starts with understanding your personal healthcare needs. Think about factors like any pre-existing conditions, how often you typically see a doctor, and whether you’ll need specific services such as specialist care or wellness programs. DKV offers a variety of plans tailored to expats, giving you access to an extensive network of healthcare providers throughout Spain.
Take the time to review important plan details. Look into coverage limits, waiting periods, and added perks like telemedicine services. Additionally, ensure the plan meets visa and residency requirements, as DKV policies are designed to align with these regulations. Lastly, weigh the costs against the benefits to choose a plan that balances your health priorities and budget effectively.
What should I do to make sure my health insurance is active and ready to use when I arrive in Spain?
To make sure your health insurance is ready to go when you arrive in Spain, follow these steps:
- Buy your policy before you travel: Select a health insurance plan that meets the Spanish visa and residency requirements and secure it before leaving your home country.
- Gather your paperwork: Collect all the necessary documents from your insurance provider, such as proof of coverage and full policy details.
- Register locally in Spain: Once you arrive, head to your local town hall to register your residency and obtain your (residency certificate).
- Confirm activation: Reach out to your insurance provider to ensure your policy is active. Double-check if there are any additional steps required on your end.
Keep your insurance documents and any health-related cards with you at all times to ensure seamless access to healthcare services. Being prepared will give you peace of mind and help you feel secure from the moment you arrive.
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