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Spain offers one of the best health care systems in Europe—affordable, accessible, and high-quality. No matter where you are in Spain, it’s important to know how the health care system works. You might be retiring in Valencia. You could be working remotely from Barcelona. Or you may be enjoying life in Madrid. This guide explains what you need to know about public and private health care in Spain. It covers health insurance options and what to expect as a foreign resident or visitor.
Reviewed By Lief Simon
Lief Simon is the managing editor of Global Property Advisor, Simon Letter, and Offshore Living Letter. He has purchased more than 45 properties, investing in 23 different countries around the world.
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Spain’s health care system ranks among the best in the world by the World Health Organization. High-quality care is available across the country. Major cities like Barcelona are known for their excellent hospitals and English-speaking doctors. In particular, the Sarrià area near the University of Barcelona has many top specialists.
Expats in Spain benefit from both public and private options. While non-EU residents typically need private insurance, they can also access a government pay-in scheme—about $65/month for those under 65 and $170/month for older residents. Private plans start around $300/month.
Despite its top-tier health care, Spain offers surprisingly low costs compared to other European countries. From dining out to medical care, the value is exceptional—making Spain a top destination for expats.
Spain has a dual health care system:
Spanish residents—both citizens and legal residents—can typically access the public system either for free or at a low cost. For expats, retirees, and digital nomads, this means that once you’re registered as a resident, you’re likely eligible for public health care.
You are eligible for Spain’s public health care system if:
If you don’t fall into one of these categories, you’ll need to purchase private international health insurance to cover your needs.
The public system is generally free at the point of use and includes:
Health care in Spain is decentralized, so regional health services vary slightly by autonomous community (e.g., Andalusia, Catalonia).
Note: Dental care is not covered by the public system and must be paid out-of-pocket or through private insurance.
Many expats choose private health insurance to:
Spain boasts a large network of private hospitals and clinics, especially in major cities and expat-heavy regions like the Costa del Sol and Alicante.
Some leading private insurance providers for expats include:
remiums vary based on age, coverage level, and pre-existing conditions, but plans can start as low as €50–€150 per month.
To obtain a non-lucrative visa, retiree visa, or digital nomad visa, you must show proof of private health insurance that:
This insurance must be valid from day one of your stay and for the duration.
Pharmacies (farmacias) are widespread and usually open during regular hours, with some offering 24/7 service. Medications are often cheaper than in the U.S., and many are available without a prescription.
Prescriptions under the public system are subsidized:
Emergency services are available to everyone, regardless of legal status. Call 112 for urgent medical assistance. Public hospitals won’t turn you away in a crisis, but you may be billed later if you’re uninsured.
| Service | Public (with coverage) | Private (without insurance) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doctor Visit | Free or ~€10 | €50–€100 | |
| Specialist Consultation | Free | €80–€150 | |
| Emergency Room Visit | Free | €150+ | |
| Hospital Stay (per night) | Free | €300–€600 |
Compared to countries like the U.S., Spain offers exceptional value, especially when combined with its high standard of care.
Spain boasts a robust network of public and private hospitals renowned for their medical excellence. Below is a curated list of some of the best hospitals across different regions, based on reputation, patient satisfaction, and international accessibility.
Consistently ranked among Spain's top hospitals, offering comprehensive medical services.
Phone: +34 917 27 70 00 Location: Paseo de la Castellana, 261, 28046 MadridPart of the Quirónsalud network, known for advanced treatments and international patient services.
Phone: +34 902 02 02 52 Location: Calle Diego de Velázquez, 1, 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, MadridA leading academic hospital offering personalized care and cutting-edge research.
Phone: +34 948 25 54 00 Location: Calle Marquesado de Santa Marta, 1, 28027 MadridA top-tier hospital renowned for its research and specialized medical services.
Phone: +34 932 27 54 00 Location: Carrer de Villarroel, 170, 08036 BarcelonaOffers comprehensive medical care with a focus on international patients.
Phone: +34 932 90 62 00 Location: Carrer de Vilana, 12, 08022 BarcelonaOne of Spain's largest hospitals, excelling in various medical specialties.
Phone: +34 934 89 30 00 Location: Passeig de la Vall d'Hebron, 119-129, 08035 BarcelonaA prestigious academic hospital offering personalized medical care.
Phone: +34 948 25 54 00 Location: Av. de Pío XII, 36, 31008 Pamplona, NavarraSpecializes in various medical fields with a strong emphasis on research.
Phone: +34 915 20 22 00 Location: Calle de Diego de León, 62, 28006 MadridProvides a wide range of medical services and is a reference center in the region.
Phone: +34 985 10 80 00 Location: Av. de Roma, s/n, 33011 Oviedo, AsturiasWhether you’re planning to retire in Spain or spend a few years living abroad, Spain’s health care system offers peace of mind. With public coverage for residents and affordable private plans for newcomers, you’re well-protected. Just make sure to understand your eligibility, arrange the right insurance, and register with local health services after you arrive.
Reviewed By Lief Simon
Lief Simon is the managing editor of Global Property Advisor, Simon Letter, and Offshore Living Letter. He has purchased more than 45 properties, investing in 23 different countries around the world.
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Health care is free or low-cost if you are legally residing and registered with the Spanish social security system. Otherwise, private insurance is required.
Yes. If you’re not working in Spain or covered by another EU country’s system, you’ll need private insurance to get a visa and maintain residency.
Private health insurance in Spain is generally affordable, with competitive international plans starting at around €50/month. For those with pre-existing conditions or over 65, it can be trickier to find coverage but our expert can help. Contact him here.
Spain ranks highly for both life expectancy and health care quality, with modern hospitals and highly trained medical professionals.
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