The cost of health insurance in Spain varies depending on a number of factors. Whether you’re a resident, a non-resident, or a student, the cost of your health insurance will vary. Some of the primary factors in determining the cost of health insurance in Spain include age, type of health plan, where you live, and the amount of coverage you choose.
Resident Health Insurance
If you’re a resident of Spain, you’re likely eligible for their public health insurance system, the “Seguridad Social.” This is funded by social security contributions and is free for most Spanish residents. Self-employed workers must pay contributions to receive coverage, while non-working relatives can receive coverage through their spouse’s or parent’s contributions. However, the coverage provided by the Seguridad Social is limited and only covers medical services provided in the public healthcare sector.
Those who are employed by private companies can choose to participate in the “Sistema Extraordinario de Autonomos” scheme, for a monthly fee that is determined by income and the cost of insurance. If you don’t qualify for those schemes, you will need to purchase private health insurance from a private insurer.
Non-Resident
Non-residents in Spain are not eligible for the public healthcare system, so private health insurance is a must. There is a range of private health insurers in Spain, such as Sanitas and Adeslas, and these providers offer a range of different health plans from a basic level of coverage all the way to a comprehensive plan. The cost of these plans vary widely, but the typical cost is between €50 - €150 per month, depending on the level of coverage chosen.
Student Health Insurance
Students studying in Spain usually need to obtain either a student health insurance policy or a tourist health insurance policy. Student health insurance policies are typically provided by the university, and costs usually range from €40 to €200 per month. These policies usually cover medical and hospital care, visits to the doctor, and some prescription drugs.
If you’re not a student, but visiting Spain as a tourist, short-term “travel” health insurance policies can be purchased from a variety of different providers. These policies typically cost around €20 - €30 per week and cover medical and hospital bills, as well as other expenses such as repatriation costs.
To better understand the cost of health insurance in Spain, it’s best to contact a local insurance broker who can help you compare quotes and give you advice on the best plan for you.
