Best Health Insurance for Expats in Spain (2024)

/
woman-doing-yoga

Moving to a new country like Spain comes with its challenges, and as an expat, one of the most crucial tasks you'll face is navigating the healthcare system and securing the right health insurance.

Having lived through this process myself, I know how overwhelming it can be to sift through countless options while trying to meet legal requirements and ensuring you're covered in case of emergencies.

How I evaluate best health insurance companies for Spain:

Before recommending any provider, I use a detailed assessment based on key factors that matter most to expats:

  • Coverage options: I assess whether each plan offers comprehensive healthcare coverage, including emergency care, hospitalizations, and preventive services.

  • Customer service: I evaluate how easily you can access support in your preferred language, particularly during emergencies.

  • Cost-benefit analysis: I carefully weigh the costs of each plan against the coverage and benefits provided. I ensure the premiums are justified and look for features like no copayments or deductibles, which can help avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

  • Visa suitability: I also review whether the insurance meets visa and residency requirements.

Best Health Insurance for Expats

Some of the best medical insurance providers in Spain include: Adeslas, Sanitas, DKV, Feather and Asisa.

For non-EU expats, securing private health insurance is non-negotiable when applying for a visa.

Even for my fellow expats from EU countries, while you're covered under public healthcare, I found having private insurance to be a lifesaver, especially for faster services. This became particularly invaluable when I was pregnant and needed timely medical care.

Insurance Company Starting Monthly* Cost Get a Quote
Adeslas 39€ Get Quote
DKV 76€ Get Quote
Asisa 49€ Get Quote
Feather 50€ Get Quote
ASSSA 55€ Get Quote

  1. Adeslas: Best Value for the Money

Through my detailed assessment of health insurance providers for expats, Adeslas consistently stood out in several key areas that matter most for expats in Spain. Here’s what my research revealed:

  • Value for Money: Starting at just 39€ per month, Adeslas offers one of the most affordable private health insurance plans in Spain. After evaluating numerous providers, I found that Adeslas provides a strong balance between cost and comprehensive coverage.

  • Flexible Insurance Periods: Flexibility is crucial for expats with varying lengths of stay, and I found that Adeslas allows you to tailor the insurance period to your specific needs. Whether you need coverage for just a few months or several years, Adeslas gives you the option to customize your policy.

  • Multilingual Customer Service: I found that Adeslas excels in providing support in English, both before and after you purchase your policy. Their website is also available in English, which helps simplify the process for non-Spanish speakers.

  • No Need for a Spanish Bank Account: One standout feature from my research is that Adeslas makes payments easy for expats, allowing you to use any debit or credit card.

  • Worldwide Travel Insurance Coverage: Unlike many other Spanish providers, Adeslas includes coverage for emergency medical expenses, travel delays, and baggage loss across over 30 services worldwide (excluding Spain and your home country).

⚠️ What you should know about Adeslas limitations

While Adeslas offers solid value, there are a few concerns noted on Reddit and Trustpilot:

  • Some users reported that certain public hospitals and ERs don’t accept Adeslas, which can be an issue in emergencies.
  • A few reviews mentioned problems with repatriation services, with one user saying Adeslas refused to transfer their daughter for necessary care abroad.

2. DKV: Best Provider Network

Through my research and evaluation, DKV emerged as one of the top choices for expats in Spain, particularly for those seeking extensive network coverage and comprehensive health benefits. Here's what I found when assessing DKV's expat insurance offering:

  • Value for Money: DKV offers health insurance plans tailored for expats, with monthly premiums ranging from approximately 76€ to 600€. While it might be on the higher end compared to some other providers, the absence of copayments or deductibles means you receive full coverage without additional out-of-pocket expenses, potentially saving you money in the long run.

  • Extensive Provider Network: One of DKV’s standout features is its vast network of healthcare providers across Spain. This extensive network ensures that you have access to a wide range of medical professionals and facilities, no matter where you are in the country.

  • Flexibility of the Insurance Period: DKV offers versatile insurance terms to match the length of your stay in Spain, whether short-term or long-term. This flexibility allows you to customize your coverage period according to your specific needs.

  • Compliance with Visa/NIE Requirements: My research confirmed that DKV’s insurance meets all the consulate demands for visa applications and renewals.

  • Comprehensive Coverage: DKV provides coverage that mirrors Spain’s public health system, including emergencies, consultations, diagnostic tests, surgeries, and hospitalizations. This comprehensive scope ensures you are well-protected for a wide array of medical needs.

  • Unlimited Coverage Within Spain: There’s no cap on expenses covered within the country, offering peace of mind that you won’t face unexpected limitations on your healthcare coverage.

  • Immediate Coverage: Unlike some providers that impose waiting periods, DKV’s coverage starts as soon as the policy is active. This immediate effect is crucial for expats who need instant protection upon arrival.

  • Repatriation of Remains: This critical aspect is included, providing essential support to expats and their families in the unfortunate event of a death abroad.

⚠️ What you should know about DKV limitations

While DKV provides solid coverage, there are a few concerns to be aware of:

  • Customer Service Issues: Several users reported poor customer service, including difficulties in canceling policies even after leaving Spain, leading to frustration and prolonged charges.
  • Expats in smaller towns have mentioned challenges in finding dental practices that accept DKV insurance, especially after a provider has closed or relocated.
  • A few reviews highlighted concerns around DKV's policy on pre-existing conditions.

3. Asisa: Flexible Healthcare Network Access

🏆 Our Top Choice for Expats in Spain!

After thoroughly evaluating various expat insurance options, we confidently recommend Asisa for its flexible healthcare network, comprehensive coverage, and excellent value for money. Asisa is a top choice for expatriates in Spain, providing outstanding support and healthcare services tailored to their unique needs.

Value for Money: Starting at 49€ to 180€ per month, my analysis found that Asisa covers a broad range of services, including emergencies, consultations, diagnostic tests, surgeries, and hospitalizations, giving expats excellent healthcare coverage for their investment.

Multilingual Customer Service: The availability of assistance in multiple languages ensures that managing healthcare needs, from booking appointments to resolving issues, is stress-free and accessible, making Asisa an expat-friendly choice.

Worldwide Travel Insurance Coverage: Asisa’s policy extends beyond Spain to protect you during your global travels, offering coverage for emergencies and travel-related incidents, ensuring peace of mind wherever you go.

⚠️ What you should know about Asisa limitations

While Asisa provides broad coverage, there are a few concerns to keep in mind:

  • Several users expressed dissatisfaction with customer service, leaving them frustrated with the overall experience.
  • Some reviewers noted that fewer doctors and hospitals are accepting Asisa, which can limit access to preferred healthcare providers.

👉 Click here to explore detailed reviews and see why Asisa is trusted by expats!

4. Feather: Easy Application Process

Feather emerged as an ideal solution for expats needing fast, reliable health insurance that meets visa or residence permit requirements. Not only does Feather offer comprehensive coverage, but it also provides strong support tailored specifically to expats in Spain.

  • Value for Money: Offers affordable health insurance coverage.

  • Flexibility of the Insurance Period: Coverage extends across all EU countries, beneficial for travel outside Spain. Includes both public and private doctors and hospitals in Spain.

  • Multilingual Customer Service: Feather provides all services in English, including registration and claims processing.

  • Extensive Medical Treatment Coverage: Covers unexpected medical treatments and procedures, along with follow-up costs. It includes medications prescribed by a doctor (excluding pre-existing conditions) and includes ambulance transport services.

  • Special Provisions for Serious Cases: In serious cases, provisions for return to home country for treatment or, in case of fatality, for burial.

  • Dental Care: Dental pain relief treatments cover up to €500/year. Tooth replacement post-accident covered up to €500.

  • Visa and Residence Permit Compliance: The Policy meets legal requirements for Spanish visas or residence permits, serving as proof of health insurance.

⚠️ What you should know about Feather limitations

While Feather offers strong expat-focused health insurance, there are a few concerns to be aware of:

  • Some users reported being charged before their policy start date, causing frustration, especially when they were still covered by a previous policy.
  • A few reviewers expressed disappointment with Feather's lack of support, mentioning that they received no help with claims in several cases.

5. ASSSA: Flexible Coverage Period

Based on my evaluation, ASSSA distinguishes itself as a compact yet highly effective insurance provider, particularly for expats. What sets ASSSA apart is its accommodating policies, including coverage for expats up to the age of 79 — the highest age limit I found in the industry during my research.

  • Value for Money: ASSSA offers three plan options — Standard, Plus, and Master — with pricing starting at 55€ to 240€ per month, depending on the level of coverage and age of the applicant. A key finding from my research is that ASSSA does not raise premiums due to age. The age you join is the age your premiums remain.

  • Flexibility of the Insurance Period: My research highlighted their excellent network of clinics and doctors, along with strong post-sale support. This flexibility ensures expats can adapt their coverage based on their length of stay and healthcare needs, making ASSSA an ideal choice for varying circumstances.

  • Multilingual Customer Service: I found that ASSSA’s offices are strategically located along the Spanish coast, ensuring that expats can access support in their native language, making the process much smoother.

  • Visa and Residence Permit Compliance: ASSSA provides extensive support in obtaining the necessary documentation for a variety of visas, including the Non-Lucrative Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, Golden Visa, Student Visa, and Spanish residency.

⚠️ What you should know about ASSSA limitations

While ASSSA offers comprehensive coverage, there are a few concerns you should be aware of:

  • Several users reported that ASSSA refused to cover treatments, even with medical documentation, citing pre-existing conditions not covered by the policy.
  • Some reviewers mentioned that ASSSA's processes are complicated and time-consuming, requiring multiple visits to doctors and leading to delays in receiving necessary care.

👉 Click here to explore expat reviews and find out if ASSSA is right for you!

How To Choose Health Insurance in Spain

If you're wondering how to choose the best private health care in Spain, here’s what you should double-check before making your final decision:

  • Visa Compatibility: Make sure the insurance is recognized for your specific visa application—whether it's for a Student Visa, Non-lucrative Visa, or even Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, and for obtaining or renewing an NIE card.

  • Coverage Area: Confirm that the insurance has a strong network in the city or region where you'll be living.

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Choose plans that cover everything from emergencies and routine visits to diagnostic tests, all types of surgeries, and hospitalizations.

  • Financial Limits: I recommend opting for plans with unlimited financial coverage to avoid any unexpected expenses.

  • Co-payments and Deductibles: Check if there are any co-payments or deductibles, which could affect your out-of-pocket costs.

  • Waiting Periods: Be aware of any waiting periods that might delay your access to certain medical services.

  • Repatriation Benefits: Considering the possibility of repatriation of remains is also essential for many expats.

IMPORTANT NOTE: When selecting private health insurance in Spain, ensuring that it covers you for the entire duration of your stay is critical.

Insurance for Expats in Spain: Eligibility

Expats who work in Spain and have a residence visa can qualify for public health insurance through the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS). This applies if you make social security contributions to Spain through your salary, freelance earnings or self-employment. SNS insurance is free and doesn’t include a deductible. The only cost is the percentage of income you contribute to the social security system.

However, if you’re a student or you aren’t making money in Spain, you won’t be eligible for the SNS system. In this case, your option is to go through private health insurance companies like Adeslas. Even if you qualify for SNS, you might want private insurance for the benefits. We’ll cover those next.

Comparing Public and Private Expat Insurance in Spain

As an expat, private health insurance is your best option when it comes to value, flexibility, multilingual service, and worldwide coverage.

 

Private Spain Insurance

Public Spain Insurance

Value for money

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

🌟🌟🌟🌟

Flexibility of insurance period

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

🌟

Multilingual customer service

🌟🌟🌟🌟

🌟

Worldwide coverage

🌟🌟🌟🌟

🌟

My Ratings for Private Health Insurance in Spain

Value for money 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Private health insurance in Spain often offers comprehensive coverage, including a wide range of medical services, quicker access to specialists, and the option to choose your preferred doctors and hospitals. While the cost may be higher, the value for money lies in the extensive coverage and personalized healthcare options tailored to your needs. 

The few times I have been sick, I was able to book an appointment with a private heath insurance within minutes, compared to the long wait time at my local CAP (CAP, which stands for Centre d'Atenció Primaria) is the first point of call if you wish to access free medical assistance in Catalunya.

Flexibility of insurance period 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

With private health insurance, expats have the advantage of flexibility in choosing the insurance period that suits their needs. This is particularly beneficial for expats who may have uncertain or short-term plans in Spain, allowing them to select the coverage that aligns with their specific time frame.

Multilingual customer service 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Private health insurance providers often prioritize customer service, including multilingual support. This ensures expats can communicate comfortably in their preferred language when seeking assistance, clarifying coverage details, or making claims.

Worldwide coverage 🌟🌟🌟🌟 

Many private health insurance plans for expats offer worldwide coverage, allowing individuals to receive medical treatment not only in Spain but also in their home countries or other parts of the world. This benefit is particularly advantageous for expats who frequently travel or have a global lifestyle.

My Ratings for Public Health Insurance in Spain

Value for money 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Spain's public health insurance, known as Seguridad Social, provides basic healthcare services to residents, including expats. Contributions are based on income, making it affordable for most individuals. While public health insurance offers essential coverage, additional services, such as private rooms or certain treatments, may not be included.

Flexibility of insurance period 🌟

Public health insurance in Spain typically requires long-term residency to access coverage. Expats planning to stay in Spain for an extended period may find public health insurance to be a suitable option. However, it may not be ideal for those with shorter stays or uncertain durations.

Multilingual customer service 🌟

While public health insurance in Spain primarily operates in Spanish, efforts are being made to provide multilingual support. However, availability and accessibility may vary across different regions or healthcare facilities.

Worldwide coverage 🌟

Public health insurance generally provides coverage within Spain's healthcare system. While emergencies may be covered during temporary stays abroad, routine healthcare services outside of Spain may not be included.

In conclusion, when choosing health insurance as an expat in Spain, consider private health insurance for its comprehensive coverage, flexibility, multilingual customer service, and worldwide coverage. While public health insurance offers affordability, it may have limitations in terms of additional services and coverage outside of Spain. Assess your needs, budget, and desired level of coverage, and research different providers before making a decision. Invest in the right health insurance to ensure access to quality healthcare and peace of mind.

Expat International Health Insurance: FAQ

Below are a few frequently asked questions about health insurance for expats in Spain:

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for expats in Spain. To meet this legal requirement, you must have health insurance tailored for foreigners in Spain. This insurance ensures that you have access to the necessary healthcare services during your stay.

Private expat insurance in Spain offers a wide range of benefits, including comprehensive coverage, quicker access to specialists, and the flexibility to choose preferred healthcare providers. It often involves a higher cost, but the value lies in the extensive coverage and personalized care.

On the other hand, public health insurance, known as Seguridad Social, provides basic healthcare services to residents, including expats. Contributions are income-based, making it affordable for most individuals. However, additional services such as private rooms or certain treatments may not be included.

Yes, many expat health insurance plans in Spain provide worldwide coverage. This means that you are not limited to receiving medical treatment only within Spain; you can access healthcare services globally. This feature is particularly beneficial for expats with international lifestyles or frequent travel.

Absolutely, most reputable expat health insurance providers in Spain prioritize multilingual customer service. This ensures that expatriates can comfortably communicate in their preferred language when seeking assistance, making claims, or clarifying coverage details.

The average cost of health insurance for expats in Spain varies depending on several factors, including your age, the level of coverage you choose, and the insurance provider. On average, plans can range from €30 to €60 per month. It's essential to consider your budget and healthcare needs when selecting a plan.

Yes, you can switch expat insurance providers in Spain. However, before making the switch, carefully review the terms and conditions of your current plan. Be aware of any waiting periods, exclusions, or limitations associated with your new provider to ensure a smooth transition.

While an EHIC provides temporary coverage in Spain, it is advisable to have additional health insurance for expats in Spain, such as Adeslas or Sanitas. EHIC may not cover all medical expenses, and it might not offer the level of service quality you desire. Having comprehensive health insurance ensures access to quality healthcare and peace of mind during your stay.

Applying for health insurance as an expat in Spain is a straightforward process. Visit the websites of reputable providers like Adeslas or Sanitas, select a plan that aligns with your needs, and follow the application process. Many providers offer online application forms for convenience.

📜 Living in Spain Planning Guide 📜

Before Moving to Spain

🔍 Research the visa process, residence permits, and other essential documentation early on.

💡 Did you know it’s mandatory to have official documents translated by a sworn translator? Consider hiring a translation service like Translyt for handling any official documents.

💡 Important: If you're moving from a non-European country, private health insurance is required for your visa application.

🧑‍⚕️ Finalize your local health insurance plan with Innoinsure for comprehensive coverage, or opt for the digital insurance services of Feather or ASSSA.

If you are a digital nomad or need travel insurance, SafetyWing provides flexible coverage for individuals living abroad.

🐕 If your pets have joined you, use Petplan for their health insurance and well-being.

Once in Spain

🏠 Use platforms like Spotahome get 15% off with code: CTSPAIN15 or Flatio to find your new home in Spain. They offer verified listings and short- to long-term rental options.

Are you on a tight budget? Check out Trusted Housesitters for free accommodation in exchange for pet sitting (Get 12% off annual memberships with code 12TRUST).

💸 Money Transfers: Set up a reliable currency exchange and transfer service like XE Money Transfer to avoid high banking fees when transferring funds internationally.

🚗 Need a rental car? Use DiscoverCars to easily compare and find the best deals for car rentals in Spain.

💡 Can you live and work in Spain without speaking Spanish?

The answer is YES! But learning Spanish will make your life so much easier. Start learning Spanish using Preply’s language tutor to learn the basics, and expect to see massive improvements within the first few months.

/ / 2 Comments
, ,
,

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.