How to Get Visa-Compliant Private Health Insurance in Spain (2026)
A step-by-step guide for non-EU citizens to choose, buy, and use private health insurance that meets Spanish visa and residency requirements in 2026.
Quick Answer (TL;DR)
You need a full, no-copay private health policy valid nationwide for 12 months, with no waiting periods, no exclusions for pre-existing conditions (or explicit waiver), and visa-compliant documentation in Spanish/English. Expect €45–€130/month per adult depending on age, region, and add-ons.
- Pick no-copay, no waiting periods, annual payment up-front
- Ensure nationwide network + emergency & hospitalization
- Ask for visa letter (policy certificate + coverage confirmation)
- Typical timeline: quote → insurer approval → pay → get certificate in 24–72h
Why Spain Requires Visa-Compliant Private Health Insurance
Non-EU residents must show they won't burden the public system. For most visas (non-lucrative, student, family reunification, many work categories before registration), consulates request private comprehensive cover meeting minimum standards: no copays, full coverage, valid in Spain for at least 1 year.
Who needs it?
- •Non-lucrative visa (residencia no lucrativa) – Read our specialized NLV & DNV guide
- •Student visa (some allow co-pays; check your consulate)
- •Family reunification
- •Digital nomad visa (often accepted if comprehensive and long-term) – See detailed DNV requirements
- •First residency before registering with Seguridad Social
The Non-Negotiables (Visa Compliance Checklist)
Must-have policy features
No copays (sin copagos)
Every visit covered without extra charges.
No waiting periods (sin carencias)
Or a written waiver for all services.
Full medical network across Spain
GPs, specialists, tests, hospitalizations.
Emergency & hospitalization included
Complete coverage for urgent care and hospital stays.
Annual validity (12 months)
With single-payment receipt.
Documentation for consulate
Policy, paid receipt, and visa letter confirming the above.
Language
Docs in Spanish (and often English).
Nice-to-have
- ✓Dental basic plan included
- ✓Direct billing with major hospitals
- ✓24/7 helpline in English
Typical Costs in 2026
These are indicative ranges; your age, region, and medical disclosures affect pricing.
Ages 18–30
€45–€70
per month
Ages 31–45
€55–€90
per month
Ages 46–60
€75–€120
per month
60+
€110–€180
per month
Students (under 30)
€300–€550
annual prepaid
Payment mode: Consulates commonly prefer annual prepayment (one receipt). Monthly can be refused for first issuance.
How to Buy (Step-by-Step)
Share basics (2–3 min)
Age(s), region, visa type, start date.
Get visa-ready quotes
We compare no-copay + no waiting period options.
Underwriting (if needed)
Quick health questionnaire; some visas require no exclusions.
Pay annually & receive docs
Policy certificate, paid receipt, and visa letter (Spanish/English) issued within 24–72 hours.
Tip: Ask the insurer/broker to state explicitly: no copays, no waiting periods, nationwide network, 12-month validity.
Choosing the Right Plan (Decision Matrix)
If you are… a Student
Look for student packages (cheaper; check copay rules at your consulate).
If you are… a Family
Family bundles with pediatric coverage & maternity (watch waiting-period waivers).
If you are… a Digital nomad
Verify outpatient + hospitalization + English docs + speedy support.
If you are… a Retiree
Prioritize broad network, zero copays, chronic condition management; confirm pre-existing coverage stance.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Copay plans that consulates reject
Even small copayments can lead to visa rejection. Ensure your policy explicitly states "sin copagos."
Waiting periods not waived for first year
Get written confirmation that all services are available immediately.
Monthly payments (lack of one full-year receipt)
Most consulates prefer annual prepayment for first visa issuance.
Travel insurance instead of a resident-style private plan
Travel insurance is temporary and doesn't meet residency requirements.
Docs only in English when your consulate insists on Spanish
Verify your consulate's specific language requirements.
Policy start date after your appointment
Ensure overlap with visa timeline.
After You Arrive: Using the Policy
Digital card/app
Shows your member number for clinics and labs.
Choosing doctors
Pick from the network list (GPs, specialists, tests).
Authorizations
Imaging/surgeries often require pre-authorization; your broker/insurer helps.
Claims
With no-copay plans you usually don't pay for in-network services (direct billing).
Visa Type Comparison: Insurance Requirements
Different visa types have varying insurance requirements. Here's a quick comparison:
| Visa Type | No Copays | No Waiting Periods | Annual Prepayment | Typical Cost/Month |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Lucrative Visa | Required | Required | Required | €60–€120 |
| Digital Nomad Visa | Required | Required | Often Required | €55–€100 |
| Student Visa | Varies by consulate | Recommended | Often Required | €25–€50 |
| Family Reunification | Required | Required | Required | €50–€110 |
| Golden Visa | Recommended | Recommended | Varies | €70–€150 |
Note: Requirements vary by consulate. Always confirm with your specific consulate before purchasing.
Consulate Requirements by Country of Application
Key differences to be aware of when applying from different countries:
🇬🇧 UK Consulates
- • Strict no-copay requirement
- • Annual payment receipt essential
- • Documents in Spanish preferred
- • May request specific coverage amounts
🇺🇸 US Consulates
- • Very strict requirements
- • May request proof of repatriation coverage
- • Documents in Spanish required
- • Waiting period waiver letter needed
🇩🇪 German Consulates
- • Detailed coverage breakdown requested
- • May accept bilingual documents
- • Pre-existing condition confirmation helpful
- • Generally thorough review process
🇨🇦 Canadian Consulates
- • Similar to US requirements
- • May require specific minimum coverage
- • Annual prepayment typically required
- • English and Spanish documents accepted
Common Mistakes That Delay Your Visa Application
Using Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is temporary and lacks the comprehensive coverage consulates require. It will be rejected.
Choosing a Policy with Copays
Even small copayments (€10-20 per visit) can result in visa rejection. Always select "sin copagos."
Waiting Periods Not Waived
Some policies have 3-12 month waiting periods for certain treatments. Get a written waiver for all services.
Policy Start Date After Visa Appointment
Coverage must be active at your appointment. Allow processing time—activate 1-2 weeks before.
Documents Only in English
Most consulates require Spanish documents. Request bilingual or Spanish-only versions from your insurer.
Monthly Payment Instead of Annual
First-time visa applicants typically need proof of annual prepayment. Monthly may be rejected.
Step-by-Step: Getting Your Visa Insurance Right
Confirm Your Consulate's Requirements
Contact your specific consulate or check their website for exact insurance requirements. They can vary.
Request Visa-Compliant Quotes
Work with a broker who understands visa requirements. Specify: no copays, no waiting periods, annual payment, nationwide network.
Complete Medical Questionnaire
Answer honestly. For pre-existing conditions, seek explicit coverage confirmation or arrange a waiver letter.
Pay Annual Premium Upfront
Most consulates require proof of annual payment. Keep the receipt—you'll need it for your appointment.
Receive Visa Documentation Pack
Within 24-72 hours: policy certificate, payment receipt, and visa letter confirming all requirements. Review before your appointment.
Next Steps
Getting the right health insurance is crucial for a successful visa application. We specialize in helping expats navigate Spanish insurance requirements and can ensure you get a policy that meets all visa criteria.
Our team can compare policies from multiple approved insurers, explain the differences, and help you choose the right coverage for your needs and budget. We'll also ensure all documentation is properly prepared for your visa application.
Expert reviewed
Written and reviewed by licensed insurance agents Maya Kallio and Marco Elsinger, who have helped over 15,000 expats in Spain since 2012.
Maya Kallio
Licensed Insurance Agent
Since 2012
Marco Elsinger
Licensed Insurance Agent
10+ years
Languages: English, Finnish, Spanish, German, Swedish
Frequently asked questions
Still have questions? Check these answers or get in touch.
Is EHIC/GHIC enough for a Spanish visa?
No. EHIC/GHIC is for short-term public care within the EU and doesn't replace comprehensive private insurance or proof of coverage for residency.
Are copays allowed for visa policies?
Usually no (varies by consulate). Select 'sin copagos' (no copays) to be safe for first issuance.
Do I need a 'no waiting periods' letter?
Yes—either no waiting periods or a written waiver for all benefits (maternity may be an exception; confirm with your consulate).
Will pre-existing conditions be covered?
Some insurers accept with coverage, others exclude or decline. For visas, seek explicit coverage confirmation or a waiver letter.
Can I pay monthly?
For first visas, most consulates prefer annual prepayment. After year one, monthly may be fine.
How fast can I get the visa letter?
Typically 24–72 hours after underwriting and payment. We can mark files urgent.
Is dental included?
Often basic dental is included; comprehensive dental is an add-on.
Do I need worldwide coverage?
Not for the visa. You need nationwide Spain coverage. If you travel frequently, consider a global add-on.
What if I plan to switch to public healthcare later?
Many residents move to Seguridad Social once eligible (employment/registration). Keep private cover active until your public entitlement starts.
Can I cancel if my visa is refused?
Most insurers allow refunds with proof of refusal minus admin fees. Request the refund policy in writing.
How do I prove my insurance to the consulate?
You'll receive a policy certificate, payment receipt, and a visa letter confirming coverage details. All documents should be in Spanish or bilingual.
What happens if I need to renew my visa?
You must show continuous insurance coverage. Renew your policy before it expires and obtain updated documentation for your renewal appointment.
Ready to get covered?
When you're ready, compare real insurance options in Spain and request a personalised quote in English.