Getting Health Insurance

Everything you Need to Know

Public health insurance is available to residents in Spain, but many opt for private insurance for faster care and additional coverage not included in public healthcare.

What is it?

Understanding Health Insurance in Spain

Health insurance in Spain includes two main options: public and private. Public healthcare is free for residents and offers universal coverage. Private health insurance, widely used by expats, provides faster access to services and additional benefits like dental care and home visits. Your health insurance is tied to your residency card, so it’s important to keep it updated.

Public Healthcare

Accessing Free Public Healthcare

Residents in Spain can apply for free public healthcare with a Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (TSI). This card allows you to:

  • Access public health centres and hospitals
  • Register with a local doctor
  • Purchase prescriptions with coverage

To apply for a TSI, you’ll need:

  • Passport or ID
  • NIE/TIE
  • Empadronamiento
  • Social Security Number (SSN)

You’ll receive a provisional card, and the original will arrive in 2–3 weeks.

Private Healthcare

Benefits of Private Health Insurance

Private health insurance offers:

  • Faster access to healthcare
  • Additional coverage for dental and mental health services
  • Access to private hospitals
  • Home visits for children’s illnesses

Around 25% of Spain’s population supplements public healthcare with private insurance for greater flexibility and convenience.

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