If you're planning to move to Spain, understanding the healthcare requirements tied to residency permits is essential. Spanish immigration rules require all applicants—regardless of visa type or nationality—to prove they have comprehensive health coverage, either public or private.
Who Needs Private Health Insurance?
Access to Spain’s public healthcare system is limited to individuals who are actively contributing to the Spanish social security system—typically through employment—or those entitled via international social security agreements, such as retirees or posted workers holding an S1 form.
For everyone else, particularly those applying for Spanish non-working residency permits, a comprehensive private health insurance policy with no copayments is mandatory. This includes:
• Non-Lucrative Visa holders
• Students
• Non-working EU citizens and their dependents applying for residency
Even some working permit holders, such as those applying for the Digital Nomad Visa, may be required to present proof of private health insurance—for both the main applicant and dependents.
In fact, even when the main applicant has access to public healthcare, dependents are sometimes asked to submit their own private insurance as part of the residency application.
Why Sanitas Is the Smartest Choice
When selecting a health insurance provider, Sanitas is one of the most trusted and comprehensive options available for residents in Spain. Here's why:
• Meets All Legal Requirements: Sanitas policies are designed to fully comply with Spanish immigration regulations, offering comprehensive, no-copay coverage for all medical needs.
• Affordable and High-Quality: Sanitas offers excellent coverage at a fraction of the cost of similar insurance in many other countries, making it ideal for families, students, retirees, and remote workers.
• Cutting-Edge Medical Facilities: Sanitas runs some of Spain’s most modern hospitals and clinics, with new centers being built featuring robotics and AI in surgery and diagnostics.
• Innovative Services: From standard checkups to genomic medicine, Sanitas is investing in personalized health analysis based on your DNA—giving you deeper insight into your long-term health risks and needs.
• Caring for Pets Too: Sanitas has recently launched pet insurance for cats and dogs, extending quality care to your four-legged family members.
Peace of Mind for Life in Spain
While having private health insurance is often a legal requirement for residency in Spain, it’s also an investment in your wellbeing. With Sanitas, you’re not only meeting the standards for your visa application—you’re ensuring access to top-tier healthcare and innovative services tailored to your life in Spain.