SPANISH HEALTH SYSTEM
Well-being without borders
Did you know that, when purchasing a home in Spain, you can also benefit from the public health system? By obtaining residency in Spain, whether temporary or permanent, you have the right to access medical care provided by the Spanish health system.
With your residence, you can obtain the individual health card, which allows you to access a wide range of medical services, including consultations with family doctors, specialists, diagnostic tests and treatments, in health centres and public hospitals in Spain.
In Spain, access to public healthcare for non-resident foreigners is limited and usually depends on the specific situation of each individual.
Access to Public Health
Community Residents
Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland who are residents in Spain have the right to full access to public healthcare. To do this, they have to obtain the Health Card in their place of residence.
Bilateral Agreements
Some countries have bilateral agreements with Spain that allow their citizens to access certain public health services. These agreements may vary, and it is important to verify the existence and details of the agreement between your home country and Spain.
Emergencies
For emergency health care whilst visiting Spain, Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland must obtain the European Health Card (EHIC) in their country of origin. Anyway, in emergency cases, anyone, regardless of their nationality or legal status, can receive urgent medical care in public hospitals.
Private Medical Insurance
Non-Resident Foreigners
Those foreigners who are not residents in Spain generally do not have direct access to public healthcare. In these cases, it is highly advisable to consider private health insurance to cover medical expenses.
Non-Lucrative Residence Visas (NLV)
Those foreigners who have a non-profit residence visa (NLV) need a private health insurance, since they do not have immediate access to public healthcare. NLV residents have to prove that they have private healthcare for at least one year with no exclusions or the visa is not granted.
Health, a Lifestyle
In Spain, health is more than a service; It is a commitment to excellence and the well-being of all. The Spanish health system is a guarantee of quality and is thus recognized internationally. With a favorable climate and a Mediterranean diet, those who choose Spain to live find an environment conducive to balance between body and mind.
These are the reasons why our healthcare system is among the best in the world:
Universal Access
In Spain, health is a fundamental right and all residents, including Europeans, have access to a quality public health system, thus providing peace of mind and security. Equality is the basis of this service, and each person is treated with the respect and attention they deserve.
Comprehensive Care
Our health system offers comprehensive medical care that ranges from primary care to specialized services, guaranteeing the best approach for the well-being of patients.
Highly Qualified Professionals
We have highly qualified and committed doctors, nurses and health professionals, many of whom have international training, which guarantees high-level medical care.
Network of Health Centres
With an extensive network of health centres and hospitals distributed throughout the country, access to medical services is guaranteed, even for those who reside in rural areas.
Innovation and Technology
Spain is at the forefront of medical innovation and health technology. Users of the system benefit from state-of-the-art treatments and advanced medical practices.
Effective Emergency System
With a highly efficient medical emergency system, you can have peace of mind knowing that, should the need arise, help is just a call away.
Buying a home in Spain not only means enjoying the sun and culture, but also guaranteeing your well-being and access to quality health services. Should you decide to live in Spain, you will be part of a culture that values and encourages healthy habits, contributing to a longer and happier life.