We take the hassle out of health insurance: these two health insurance companies provide international medical and dental insurance for expats in Spain. Get quick simple quotes, and check out our list of FAQs to select the best health coverage plan for you.

Health insurance quotes for expats in Spain

The Munich-headquartered financial services company offers international health insurance plans for expatriate students, professionals, couples and families. Depending on the policy, Allianz Care covers everyday medical expenses, emergency treatment, dental consultations, maternity, surgery, and outpatient fees.

The American health services company serves expats and globally mobile individuals in more than 200 international jurisdictions. Cigna Global’s policies are easily customized to coverage and cost requirements and customers can pick from three coverage levels, modular plans, and several cost-share options.

Best expat health insurance quotes in Spain

Healthcare in Spain

What do I need to receive healthcare in Spain?

Spain has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, available free to residents who pay into the social security system. State healthcare is administered at local authority level and you can choose your own doctor within your local healthcare district, but some health treatment such as dental care is not covered. Private healthcare is also available in Spain and can be covered by a private or international health insurance plan.

Do I need to get private health insurance in Spain?

Although public health provision is good, many residents in Spain opt for private health insurance as it enables them to access faster specialist treatment as well as a wider range of treatments and specialists (including English-speaking medical staff). Private insurance can be used as a top up to cover areas such as dental treatment. Those not covered by public health insurance will need to purchase private insurance before entering Spain.

FAQ: Health insurance in Spain

There are many health insurance providers in Spain so make sure you shop around, do your research and purchase a policy that meets your particular needs.

Besides comparing prices, it might be useful to consider the following questions:

1. Does the package cover family members?

State health insurance in Spain also covers spouses and children who reside in the country. Private family insurance packages are available but you’ll need to ask for the additional coverage and be prepared to pay extra.

2. Are there any restrictions, limitations, or exclusions on the policy, e.g. relating to age or pre-existing conditions?

Whereas Spanish public health insurance payments are calculated by earnings, private plans tend to be calculated by health risk factors such as age and medical history. Some conditions may be excluded or have a higher premium, so be sure to check before buying.

3. What’s a coverage gap and could I be affected?

You may experience a coverage gap when you first arrive in Spain if you are not covered by private or international insurance. It can be a lengthy process as you’ll need your social security number to register with the Spanish social security system. You’ll then be issued with a health card which you need to show in order to receive free public healthcare.

4. Am I covered while I travel?

Public health insurance will cover you for some medical treatment in other EU countries and places with whom Spain has a mutual health agreement. If you make frequent overseas trips, an international insurance packaged tailored towards expats may be better. Check for costs and extent of coverage.

5. What treatments are covered?

Private insurance packages usually cover costs for dental care, eye care and prescriptions but you might want to check if specialist complementary therapy such as osteopathy is included. Some private providers charge higher rates for maternity care too.

6. How straightforward is the process for making a claim?

Does the private insurer pay the medical bills directly or will you need to pay and get reimbursed? If so, what do you need to send them and how long does it all take? Spanish public healthcare is free at the point of use but you may end up out of pocket in the short term if you go private.