How to Secure Health Insurance for Retiring in Spain

/

Recently, I had the opportunity to assist a British couple in their early 70s who planned to retire in Spain for the next 5–10 years. Both active and healthy, they were looking for health insurance that would meet visa requirements while also covering their medical needs as they age. As we delved into their options, I discovered that finding the right plan for retirees over 70 isn't as straightforward as it might seem.

This research led me to explore both private and public healthcare options in Spain, including the Convenio Especial, a lesser-known but valuable program for accessing public healthcare. Below, I’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to health insurance options for retirees in Spain, tailored specifically for expats over 70.

Best Private Health Insurance for Retirees in Spain

If you're retiring in Spain, private health insurance is often necessary, especially if you’re applying for a non-lucrative visa. Many expats prefer private insurance for its faster access to specialists, shorter wait times, and broader network of English-speaking doctors.

Spain Private Insurance Options for Retirees

Finding health insurance for those over 65 can be challenging, as many providers have strict age limits. After thorough research, here are some of the best private health insurance options available for retirees:

Insurance Company Age of Member Request a Quote
Innoinsure Up to 70 Request a Quote
Asisa Up to 71 Request a Quote
ASSSA Up to 79 Request a Quote
Sanitas Up to 75 Request a Quote
AXA Up to 65 Request a Quote

1. Innoinsure

  • Age Limit: Covers individuals up to age 70.

  • Coverage: General medical services, hospitalization, and preventive care.

  • Additional Benefits: Multilingual support tailored for expats.

  • Price: From €200 per month.

2. Asisa

  • Age Limit: Accepts new members up to 71 years old.

  • Coverage: General healthcare services, hospitalization, and specialist visits.

  • Additional Benefits: Known for its reliable customer service and competitive pricing.

  • Price: From €185 per month.

3. ASSSA

  • Age Limit: Accepts members up to age 79.

  • Coverage: Comprehensive coverage including pre-existing conditions, making it ideal for older retirees.

  • Additional Benefits: Personalized customer service and no waiting periods for expats who switch from another provider.

  • Price: From €242 per month.

4. Sanitas

  • Age Limit: Accepts new members up to age 75.

  • Coverage: Preventive care, specialist visits, emergency care, and hospitalization.

  • Additional Benefits: English-speaking customer service and add-ons for dental or international travel coverage.

  • Price: Starts at €250 per month.

5. AXA

  • Age Limit: Covers individuals up to age 65.

  • Coverage: Includes hospital care, diagnostics, and wellness programs.

  • Price: Starts at €180 per month.

The Convenio Especial: Public Healthcare for Retirees

If private insurance is not a suitable option, the Convenio Especial offers a way to access Spain’s public healthcare system. This is particularly useful for retirees who may not qualify for automatic public healthcare coverage through social security or other entitlements.

What Is the Convenio Especial?

The Convenio Especial is a pay-in scheme that grants access to Spain’s public healthcare system. For a monthly fee (€60 for those under 65 and €157 for those over 65), retirees can receive healthcare services, including coverage for pre-existing conditions. However, prescriptions and certain extras, such as prosthetics, are not included and must be paid out of pocket.

Eligibility Criteria

You are eligible for the Convenio Especial if:

  1. You have been a legal resident in Spain for at least 12 months.

  2. You are unable to access healthcare through any other means (e.g., through employment, pensions, or other insurance).

Required Documents

To apply for the Convenio Especial, you’ll need:

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months).

  • NIE certificate or TIE residency card.

  • Padron certificate (not older than 3 months).

  • Certificate of non-entitlement to healthcare in the UK, translated into Spanish.

  • Completed application form (available online for your region).

Public vs. Private Healthcare: Which Is Best for Retirees?

Private Healthcare

  • Faster access to specialists and treatments.

  • English-speaking professionals in many clinics.

  • Tailored coverage for retirees with specific needs.

Public Healthcare via Convenio Especial

  • Affordable fixed monthly fees.

  • Includes pre-existing conditions.

  • Ideal for retirees unable to access private insurance due to age or cost constraints.

Final Thoughts

Retiring in Spain offers incredible lifestyle benefits, but navigating health insurance options is a critical part of the process. Whether you choose a private health insurance plan like Sanitas, ASSSA, or Asisa, or opt for the Convenio Especial, understanding your options will help you make an informed decision and enjoy your retirement with peace of mind.

/ / Comment
,
, ,

Laetitia woue

Laetitia is the author of Coming to Spain and has been living in Spain for over six years. She is passionate about traveling throughout Spain and helping others overcome their limiting beliefs to achieve their dream of moving to Spain. Through her writing and resources, she provides practical advice and insights to support and guide individuals in making their dream of living in Spain a reality.