As a foreigner living in Spain, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
We asked expats in Spain if they have access to public healthcare in Spain. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Spain, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Spain is known for its high quality and is free for all citizens and legal residents. It is funded by the government and is available to everyone regardless of their income level. The public healthcare system in Spain is comprehensive and includes primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. It also covers prescription drugs, medical tests, and treatments," remarked another expat who made the move to Spain.
"No, not yet. We just moved to Granada eight months ago. My understanding is that after a year, we can join the public health system. Expats in my area are typically enrolled in private health insurance. We have Sanitas private health insurance and we are happy with them, It’s not difficult to enroll, We paid about €188 per month for two people with a full coverage with no copay and no deductible. There are public hospitals in our area but we have never used them because we are not yet eligible to join until after living in Spain for a year.. We used the private hospital Vithas and are very happy with them," explained one expat living in Granada, Spain.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Other Questions:
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- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Spain?
- What is the average cost of housing in Spain?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Spain?
- What should I pack when moving to Spain?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Spain?
- Why do people move to Spain?
- What are healthcare services like in Spain?
- What are medical services in Spain like?
- What are typical rents in Spain?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
As a foreigner living in Spain, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
If you live in Spain, newcomers to Spain would love to hear your answer to this question:
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.