The Spanish Healthcare System: What You Need to Know as an Expat

This information is up to date and has been checked on 2025.

The Spanish healthcare system is known for its quality and accessibility. As an expat, it’s important to know how you can make use of it. In this article, we provide you with the necessary information.

Public Healthcare

Spain has a public healthcare system (Sistema Nacional de Salud) that is financed through social security contributions.

Who Is Entitled to Public Care?

If you work in Spain and pay social security contributions, you are entitled to public healthcare. Pensioners and certain benefit recipients are also covered.

Applying for a Health Card

To access services, you must apply for a health card (Tarjeta Sanitaria) at your local health center.

Private Health Insurance

If you are not entitled to public care or prefer private care, you can take out private health insurance.

Understanding the Spanish healthcare system is essential for your well-being as an expat. Make sure you take the right steps to be insured for medical care when needed.

Get help from a specialist.
Apply for your NIE entirely remotely.
Register your NIE as NIF or request a new NIF.
Application for your NUSS number.
We fill out the Modelo 210 for you and submit it.
Complete formation of your S.L.
Full registration as Autónomo.
Full registration as Autónomo.
Complete formation of your S.L.

Obtain your Digital Certificate entirely remotely.

We help you with everything necessary to become a resident.
Payment options available afterward or in installments.
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Get help from a specialist.
Request your NIE completely remotely.
Register your NIE as a NIF or apply for a new NIF.
Request your NUSS number.
We fill out the Modelo 210 for you and submit it.
Complete establishment of your S.L.
Full registration as an Autónomo.
Full registration as an Autónomo.
Complete establishment of your S.L.

Request your Digital Certificate completely remotely.

We'll help you with everything you need to become a resident.
It is possible to pay afterwards or in installments.
Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot.

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