What do you do for health care when in Spain? This is a question we get a lot. We have been coming to spend the winters in Spain for 7 years now. We came here on the Non-lucrative Visa. If you’re a non-European citizen moving to Spain or coming for more than 3 months a year on a visa, one crucial question you’ll need to answer is healthcare — specifically private medical insurance.

Whether it’s a non-lucrative visa, student visa, digital nomad visa, or residence visa — one of the main requirements is proof of private health insurance. Unless you’re employed in Spain and contributing to the Spanish social security system which would give you access to the public healthcare system, you’ll need private coverage to ensure you won’t be a financial burden on public services.

Your policy must meet these basic conditions:

• Full coverage within Spain.

• No co-payments or deductibles.

• Cover for primary care, specialist care, hospitalisation, and emergencies.

How Private Healthcare Works in Spain

Spain has a dual healthcare system — public and private. The public system is excellent and often free or low-cost for residents paying into social security, but private healthcare offers certain advantages:

• Shorter waiting times for specialist appointments and procedures.

• Access to English-speaking doctors and international clinics.

• Flexibility in choosing hospitals, clinics, and specialists.

• More modern facilities in many cases.

Our experience 

Both Terry and I had to use our private health coverage a few times for minor illness and regular check-ups. Our experience has been outstanding, surprisingly faster and more in depth than our experience in Canada. 

For example, I went last week for a backache that produces an electric shock on my foot and an osteoporosis prescription renewal. I told the doctor that I was waiting for 2 years in Canada to have a follow-up bone density test and that the Canadian doctor prescribed exercise for my backache. At the Spanish clinic, within one week, I had a bone density test, a full blood test, urine test and ultrasound to rule out more serious internal issues that could cause my backache and foot pain. Next I will see a traumatologue to assess my backache issues. On an other occasion, I was able to see the doctor, get assessed, had a test, see the doctor again and walk out with a prescription within 45 minute6s. Friends who needed hospital stay or other procedures also report excellent care. So far, we are quite impressed with the health care we are getting here in Nerja at the Vithas bilingual private clinic and hospital. 

How much does this cost?

The cost varies based on your age, coverage level, and the insurer you choose. On average:

• Younger expats (under 40): €40-€70 per month.

• Middle-aged expats (40-60): €70-€150 per month.

• Seniors (60+): Policies can range from €150-€400+ per month.

Our coverage is with Sanitas. We selected this coverage on the recommendation of another Canadian couple we know who live full time in Nerja. This is a visa compatible policy which does not expire with age.

Terry and I pay 3600€ annually without a deductible. It also covers basic dental and 3 months out of country coverage. 

If you have access to the public healthcare, is private healthcare worth it?

Absolutely — even beyond visa requirements, having private insurance gives you peace of mind. While Spain’s public healthcare is generally good, the speed, flexibility, and convenience of private healthcare can make your experience much smoother.

Plus, for those who don’t speak fluent Spanish, private facilities often cater to international clients with multilingual staff.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a non-European moving to Spain on a visa, private medical insurance isn’t just a bureaucratic box to tick — it’s a practical investment in your health and well-being. A good healthcare coverage, especially as you age, is truly peace of mind.