If you’re new to Spain, one of the first things to figure out is your healthcare coverage. Here’s a clear comparison between our expat health insurance, a standard private insurance and Spain’s public healthcare system (Seguridad Social), so you can choose what’s best for your situation.
1. Expat Health Insurance - Best for expats
Feather’s expat health insurance is specifically designed for visa and residence permit applicants. The insurance can also be used for renewals and is valid for up to 5 years from the date you arrive in Spain. It’s fully digital, 100% in English, and meets all Spanish visa requirements, making it the best option for:
Non-lucrative visa applicants (NLV)
Remote workers and digital nomads
Students and temporary residents
People who are not yet registered (empadronado) or working in Spain
People who need to renew their residence permit or visa and have been in Spain for less than 5 years
What’s included:
Hospital visits, surgeries, and emergency care
Doctor appointments and specialist treatments
Pregnancy care and childbirth
Repatriation, medical transport, and more
Urgent dental care (up to €500/year)
Expat health insurance includes EU-wide coverage. Limited coverage in your home country is available once your policy has been active for one year.
Note: it's not meant for long-term residents already using Spain’s public healthcare system.
2. Traditional Private Insurance
The standard private health insurance usually offers greater coverage at a higher price. It’s suitable for people already living, working, or self-employed in Spain.
What’s included:
Fast access to private clinics and specialists
Maximum length of policy is unlimited
Traditional private insurance in Spain is not valid for visa applications. This type of insurance is better suited for those who have been living in Spain for several years and already hold a NIE.
3. Public Healthcare (Seguridad Social)
Spain’s public system is well-regarded and free if you’re contributing to Social Security (through employment or self-employment).
What’s included:
Primary care, specialists, and emergency care
Hospitalization and maternity services
Vaccinations and mental health care
Spain’s public healthcare system offers comprehensive care, but it often involves longer wait times for non-urgent treatments. To access it, you must be registered and contributing to Social Security, and it’s not valid for visa applications.
If you’ve just arrived in Spain and need health insurance for your visa or residence permit, expat health insurance is the best choice. It’s fully compliant with visa requirements, easy to purchase online in English, and covers everything you need.
If you have any doubts about the requirements or want to know if our policy works for your visa, book a call here.