Calendario marcando el plazo legal para cancelar un seguro en España.

Cancelling Health Insurance in Spain: The 1-Month Rule

3 July, 2026/in Health insurance Blog /by Adam Ubago Hughes

Changing your medical provider in Spain requires strict adherence to specific legal deadlines. Missing the statutory cancellation window forces you to pay for another entirely unwanted year of coverage. A professional broker ensures your cancellation letters are drafted and submitted perfectly on time.

THE FINANCIAL TRAP OF AUTOMATIC RENEWALS

You finally find a superior medical policy for your family in Marbella. You simply stop paying your old premium expecting the contract to quietly end. The old insurer, however, aggressively demands full payment for the upcoming twelve months. Debt collection agencies eventually start calling your phone constantly. This incredibly stressful situation traps thousands of foreign residents in expensive policies every single year. Assuming Spanish contracts work exactly like British monthly subscriptions is a terrible financial mistake.

NAVIGATING SPANISH POLICY CANCELLATION LAWS

Spanish legislation governs policy cancellations strictly to protect the entire financial system. You must notify your current provider exactly one month before the annual renewal date. This formal notification requires, indeed, a legally binding written document called a “Carta de Cancelación”.

We highly recommend reviewing the official Spanish Insurance Contract Law notice periods to understand your legal obligations. Sending a simple email to customer service is rarely accepted as valid legal proof. You should absolutely consider how pre-existing conditions affect your new Spanish medical cover before officially resigning. Leaving your family uninsured during the transition period is extremely dangerous.

MANAGING YOUR POLICY SWITCH WITH BMI BROKERS

Drafting a legally perfect cancellation letter in Spanish is incredibly frustrating for expats. We handle this entire administrative burden completely at BMI Brokers. Our team ensures your old policies in Fuengirola are cancelled correctly using official channels. We negotiate superior replacement cover to eliminate any dangerous gaps in your protection.

Premium broker representation guarantees your transition is completely seamless and legally sound.

UPGRADE YOUR HEALTHCARE SAFELY

Handling hostile retention departments is managed entirely by our dedicated office staff. You will never, consequently, fight with Spanish administration alone to stop a direct debit. Upgrade your private healthcare safely before the autumn renewal deadlines arrive. Speak to our private client team today and request a hassle-free health insurance switch for your family.

Objetos abandonados en una tumbona durante una ola de calor en Marbella

Summer Heatwaves in Spain: Private Expat Health Cover

8 June, 2026/in Health insurance Blog /by Adam Ubago Hughes

The brutal summer heat on the Costa del Sol often triggers unexpected medical emergencies. Relying on overcrowded public healthcare during peak tourist season can be incredibly stressful. Securing a premium private health policy allows you to bypass the chaotic waiting rooms completely.

THE DANGER OF SUMMER MEDICAL EMERGENCIES

You enjoy a beautiful August afternoon on the beach in Marbella. The scorching sun, unfortunately, causes severe dehydration and sudden heatstroke. Family members rush you to the nearest public hospital emergency room. The waiting area is completely packed with sunburned tourists.

Patients often wait for several agonising hours before seeing a doctor. This terrifying scenario happens frequently to vulnerable expats during extreme heatwaves. Enduring immense pain in a crowded corridor is a terrible experience. Relying on a collapsed system during August is a massive gamble for your wellbeing.

NAVIGATING THE SPANISH HEALTHCARE DIVIDE

Spain boasts a public healthcare system that ranks among the best globally. The influx of summer tourists, however, strains local resources immensely. Public hospitals simply cannot process non-life-threatening emergencies quickly. You must understand the clear divide between public and private care as a foreign resident.

Private hospitals offer immediate access to top English-speaking specialists. We highly recommend reviewing the official Junta de Andalucía health service guidelines for foreigners to understand your legal rights. Knowing exactly where to go during a crisis saves precious time. Ignorance of the local health infrastructure can worsen a serious injury.

WHY PRIVATE COVER IS ESSENTIAL FOR EXPATS

Basic public care does not guarantee a comfortable recovery environment. Private clinics in Fuengirola or Mijas, instead, provide individual rooms and fast-tracked diagnostics. An unexpected fall by the pool requires immediate X-rays and expert attention.

You should also ensure you comprehend how waiting periods work in Spanish private health insurance before an emergency strikes. Upgrading your cover right in the middle of a health crisis is impossible. Immediate access to premium facilities gives your family total peace of mind. Quality medical attention should never involve fighting for a chair in a waiting room.

FAST-TRACK YOUR MEDICAL CARE WITH BMI BROKERS

Finding the perfect medical policy in a foreign country is challenging. We carefully analyse your specific medical needs at BMI Brokers. Our expert team negotiates robust health plans with top Spanish insurers. We ensure your policy includes immediate emergency access without restrictive copayments.

Handling complex medical questionnaires is done entirely on your behalf. You will never, thus, struggle with confusing Spanish medical terminology alone. Protect your family properly before the next heatwave hits the coast. Speak to our specialist expat team today and request a bespoke private health insurance quote for your family.

British expat couple consulting an English-speaking doctor in a Marbella private clinic.

Best Private Health Insurance Costa del Sol: English Doctors

26 February, 2026/in Health insurance Blog /by Adam Ubago Hughes

Best Private Health Insurance in La Costa del Sol: Finding English-Speaking Doctors

Moving to the Costa del Sol is a lifelong dream for many British and European families.

However, navigating a sudden medical emergency in a foreign country is a completely different reality.

Falling ill is stressful enough without having to frantically translate complex medical terms into Spanish.

The Real Cost of the Language Barrier in Medical Emergencies

When you or your partner needs urgent medical care, clarity and speed are absolutely everything.

Therefore, trying to explain severe symptoms to a triage nurse who doesn’t speak English is incredibly dangerous.

Relying on a smartphone translation app while your child is in pain is simply not a risk worth taking.

In addition, miscommunications regarding drug allergies or pre-existing conditions can lead to disastrous medical outcomes.

Many expats living in Marbella and Mijas severely underestimate this language barrier until it is too late.

Consequently, finding a local clinic with English-speaking doctors becomes an urgent, panicked scramble.

Understanding the Spanish Healthcare System

Unlike in the UK, where the NHS is your default point of call for every medical need, Spain operates differently.

The public healthcare system here, known as the Seguridad Social, is undeniably world-class and highly respected.

Furthermore, the medical professionals working in public hospitals are exceptionally well-trained and dedicated.

However, public doctors, surgeons, and nurses are under absolutely no obligation to speak English to their patients.

This leaves many non-Spanish speaking residents feeling completely isolated and confused during vital medical consultations.

Why the Public System Isn’t Always Enough for Expats

Beyond the language barrier, the public system faces severe bottlenecks in popular expatriate areas.

For instance, waiting lists for non-urgent surgeries or specialist appointments can easily stretch into many months.

If you need an urgent MRI scan or a consultation with a cardiologist, you could be waiting a very long time.

As a result, many expats find themselves suffering unnecessarily while waiting for the public system to catch up.

You must also consider the strict legal requirements if you are moving to Spain on a residency visa.

Therefore, applicants for the Golden Visa or Non-Lucrative Visa must secure comprehensive private cover by law.

The Spanish government mandates that this cover has no copayments and fully mirrors the public healthcare system.

You can verify these strict requirements directly on the official Gov.uk guide to healthcare in Spain.

How Private Health Insurance Solves the Expat Dilemma

Many new arrivals view private medical cover as an annoying administrative expense rather than a necessity.

However, treating a serious illness privately without insurance will quickly decimate your hard-earned life savings.

The best private health insurance in the Costa del Sol is your ultimate financial and medical safety net.

Furthermore, it grants you immediate, queue-jumping access to the finest private hospitals in the region.

Access to Top-Tier Facilities in Marbella and Sotogrande

Premium private hospitals are specifically designed to cater to the growing international community on the coast.

Consequently, they employ vast networks of highly qualified, English-speaking doctors and specialists.

From the moment you walk into the reception area, you will be greeted in a language you actually understand.

For instance, major private clinics across Sotogrande and Estepona even provide dedicated international patient care desks.

You will fully comprehend your diagnosis, your surgical treatment plan, and your daily medication instructions.

As a result, you can focus entirely on recovering rather than battling a stressful language barrier.

BMI Brokers: Your Local Health Insurance Experts

Choosing the right policy from a sea of Spanish providers can feel completely overwhelming for a newcomer.

In addition, policy documents are often written in complex legal Spanish, hiding exclusions that leave you vulnerable.

Our experienced team at BMI Brokers does all the heavy lifting and translation for you.

Therefore, we sit down with you to truly understand your specific medical history and family needs.

We only recommend trusted insurers that boast the most extensive English-speaking medical networks on the coast.

Furthermore, we ensure your policy has absolutely no hidden copayments that could accidentally breach your visa conditions.

If you want to know more about how healthcare ties into your legal residency, read our complete guide on NLV Health Insurance in Spain and Visa Requirements.

Secure Your Peace of Mind Today

When the unexpected happens, you should never be worrying about massive hospital bills or finding a translator.

Consequently, having a dedicated, local broker in your corner means you always have someone to call in an emergency.

We handle all the complicated Spanish paperwork and liaise directly with the insurers if a claim gets delayed.

As a result, you enjoy total peace of mind knowing your family’s health and wealth are properly protected.

Do not leave your healthcare to chance in a foreign country.

Get a Health Insurance Quote customized for Expats

British retired couple arriving at Malaga airport for their Non-Lucrative Visa residency on the Costa del Sol.

NLV Health Insurance Spain: Meet Visa Requirements

12 February, 2026/in Health insurance Blog /by Adam Ubago Hughes

Health: Private Health Insurance for the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV): Meeting the Requirements

Are you planning your dream move to the Costa del Sol? Moving to Spain is an exciting adventure for many British expatriates. However, navigating the bureaucratic requirements for the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) can often feel overwhelming.

One of the most critical hurdles is securing the correct private health insurance. Consequently, many applications are rejected simply because the policy does not meet the strict criteria set by the Spanish Consulates.

At BMI Brokers, located in the heart of Mijas and Marbella, we specialise in policies specifically designed to get your visa approved.

Understanding the Strict NLV Requirements

The Spanish government requires proof that you will not be a burden on the state’s healthcare system. Therefore, a standard travel insurance policy or a basic plan will not suffice.

For instance, your insurance policy must provide coverage equal to the Spanish National Health System.

To ensure success, your policy must include:

Comprehensive coverage (General medicine, specialists, surgery, and hospitalisation).
No copayments (Zero excess per visit).
No waiting periods (Crucial for immediate coverage).
Repatriation coverage (Often required).

As a result, choosing the wrong provider can delay your move by months. Furthermore, we work with top-tier insurers like Aegon and DKV to ensure your documentation is perfect for the Consulate.

Why Local Expertise Matters

You might think buying a policy online from a UK broker is easier. However, UK-based brokers often miss the nuances of Spanish immigration law.

In contrast, BMI Brokers is deeply rooted in the Costa del Sol. We understand exactly what the immigration offices in Málaga and Madrid demand.

Moreover, we provide documentation in Spanish, which is mandatory for your application. Consequently, you avoid the hassle and expense of certified translations for your insurance certificate.

We offer tailored solutions for:

Retirees moving to Benalmádena or Fuengirola.
Families relocating to Marbella.
Digital Nomads setting up in Mijas.

Get Your NLV-Compliant Health Insurance Quote Here

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many applicants try to save money by choosing policies with “copagos” (copayments). Unfortunately, this is the number one reason for visa rejection.

Furthermore, some insurers impose waiting periods that leave you uncovered for immediate treatments. The Spanish Consulates are very strict regarding this clause.

Consequently, we ensure all our NLV clients receive a certificate that explicitly states “Sin Carencias” (No waiting periods) and “Sin Copagos” (No copayments).

For official information regarding visa requirements, you can always verify the current legislation directly with the authorities.

Check Official Visa Requirements at the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Secure Your Move to the Costa del Sol Today

Don’t let paperwork ruin your dream of living in Mijas or Marbella. Instead, let us handle the insurance so you can focus on packing.

Finally, our team is ready to provide you with a free, no-obligation quote that guarantees peace of mind.

Contact BMI Brokers today and ensure your Non-Lucrative Visa application is a success.

Compulsory Health Insurance for Foreigners Applying for a Residence Permit in Spain

12 January, 2026/in Health insurance Blog /by Adam Ubago Hughes

Health insurance is a mandatory requirement for many foreigners who wish to reside legally in Spain. Whether you are planning a long-term stay, applying for a visa, or renewing your residence card, Spanish immigration regulations clearly establish that adequate private medical coverage is essential. Understanding these requirements is crucial to avoid delays or refusals in your application and to ensure access to healthcare during your stay.

Spanish Immigration Regulations and Health Insurance

According to national immigration regulations, any foreign national planning to reside in Spain for more than 90 days and who is not registered with the public social security system must prove they have private health insurance. This applies to citizens from other European Union countries as well as nationals from outside the EU.

EU citizens must apply for a registration certificate if they stay longer than three months, while non-EU citizens must obtain a residence permit or visa. In both cases, health insurance is considered an essential prerequisite. Tourist or travel insurance policies are explicitly excluded, as they do not meet the required standards for long-term residence.

What the Immigration Authorities Require

The immigration office evaluates health insurance policies based on strict criteria. The insurance must provide full medical coverage without limits, ensuring comprehensive protection for the insured person throughout Spanish territory. This includes coverage for hospital admissions, specialist care, and surgical interventions.

Another key requirement is the absence of co-payments. This means policyholders should not be required to pay extra fees each time they visit a doctor or receive treatment. The insurance must also include repatriation in the event of death and remain valid for the entire duration of the residence permit or visa.

Who Needs Compulsory Health Insurance in Spain

Compulsory private health insurance is required for several groups of foreign residents. These include individuals applying for a non-lucrative residence visa, students enrolled in long-term educational programs, people seeking residence permits for job searching, and those applying for long-term EU residence.

It is also mandatory for EU citizens registering their residence after 90 days, family members of EU citizens, investors, and applicants for special residence permits. Importantly, the obligation extends to all family members included in the application, not only the main applicant.

Territorial Scope and Validity

The health insurance policy must be valid throughout Spain and contracted with an insurance provider operating legally in the country. Policies issued by foreign insurers are generally not accepted unless they explicitly meet Spanish regulatory standards and operate within national territory.

Additionally, the insurance contract must cover the entire period of residence. Since health insurance is directly linked to the validity of the residence permit, renewals require proof that the insurance policy has also been renewed for the corresponding duration.

Coverage Expected from a Compliant Policy

A health insurance policy suitable for residence applications must offer extensive medical services. This typically includes primary care such as general medicine, pediatrics, and nursing services, as well as access to medical specialists like cardiology, dermatology, gynecology, neurology, and traumatology.

Diagnostic tests, both simple and complex, are also required. These may include laboratory analysis, imaging tests, and advanced diagnostic procedures. Therapeutic treatments, outpatient and inpatient surgical interventions, and hospitalization in single rooms with companion accommodation are part of the expected coverage.

Additional benefits often include emergency care, telemedicine services, health counseling programs, dental coverage, and limited medical assistance when traveling abroad for short stays. These features help ensure comprehensive healthcare access and align with immigration requirements.

Administrative and Practical Aspects for Foreigners

From an administrative perspective, health insurance for foreigners can generally be contracted using a passport or identification number. Applications can often be completed remotely, allowing individuals to arrange coverage from their home country before traveling to Spain.

Payment methods are designed to be accessible, with options to pay by debit or credit card without the need for a Spanish bank account. Some policies also offer discounts for annual payments, which can reduce overall costs for long-term residents.

Why Health Insurance Is More Than a Formality

Beyond being a legal requirement, compulsory health insurance plays a vital social and practical role. It ensures that foreign residents can access quality healthcare without relying on emergency services or public assistance, contributing to the sustainability of the healthcare system.

For applicants, having compliant health insurance provides peace of mind, financial protection, and continuity of care during their stay in Spain. Preparing this requirement in advance is one of the most effective ways to ensure a smooth residence application process.

Practical Takeaway for Applicants

Anyone planning to apply for a residence permit or visa in Spain should prioritize securing compliant private health insurance early. Reviewing coverage conditions, territorial validity, and duration carefully can prevent administrative setbacks. Proper health insurance is not only a legal obligation but also a cornerstone of successful integration and wellbeing for foreign residents in Spain.

At BMI Brokers, we help foreigners in Spain meet compulsory health insurance requirements clearly and confidently, without overpaying or risking non-compliance. Our experts explain the legal health insurance obligations based on your visa or residency status, compare compliant policies from trusted insurers, and guide you toward the right level of coverage for your personal situation.

Live and reside in Spain with peace of mind from day one, knowing your health insurance fully complies with Spanish regulations.

Contact us today for personalised advice on mandatory health insurance for foreigners in Spain and avoid delays, visa issues, or unnecessary costs. Visit our blog for more tips, guides, and updates on essential insurance coverage for foreigners living in or relocating to Spain.

Waiting Periods in Spanish Health Insurance: How Long Until You’re Fully Covered?

19 December, 2025/in Health insurance Blog /by Adam Ubago Hughes

When taking out private health insurance in Spain, it is essential to understand the concept of “waiting periods.” These are the timeframes that must pass from the moment your policy is taken out until you can access certain specific services or treatments. This is a crucial condition that directly affects when and how you can fully use your coverage, and it is especially relevant for expatriates and visa applicants, for whom the absence of waiting periods is often an indispensable requirement.

What Are Waiting Periods in Health Insurance?

Waiting periods are a mechanism used by insurers to protect themselves against potential fraudulent use of insurance. Their main purpose is to prevent someone from taking out a policy solely to cover an imminent and known medical need and then canceling it shortly afterward. Essentially, they ensure that policyholders join the system with a long-term perspective, thereby contributing to the sustainability of the service.

Common Services Affected by Waiting Periods and Their Typical Durations

The length of waiting periods varies depending on the type of service and the insurer, but there are common ranges for the most important benefits:

Service	Typical Waiting Period	Description
Hospitalization and Surgery (non-life-threatening emergencies)	6 to 10 months	Scheduled surgical procedures and hospital stays.
Childbirth and Maternity	8 to 10 months (often 10)	Coverage of expenses related to pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.
High-Technology Diagnostic Tests	3 to 6 months	MRI scans, CT scans, colonoscopies, endoscopies, etc.
Specific Treatments	6 to 12 months	Advanced physiotherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, dialysis, psychology, etc.
Specialist Consultations, General Medicine, and Basic Diagnostics	No waiting period or 1 to 3 months	Medical consultations, routine blood tests, simple X-rays.

Waiting Periods for Expatriates and Visa Applicants in Spain

This is a critical point for those wishing to reside in Spain. To obtain visas such as the Non-Lucrative Visa, Student Visa, or Digital Nomad Visa, Spanish regulations require private health insurance that covers all the benefits of the Spanish public healthcare system and, crucially, has no waiting periods for most services—or at least for hospitalization and emergencies—from the first day the policy comes into effect. For this reason, many insurers offer specific “no waiting period” products or policies with very short waiting periods for this segment, adapting to immigration requirements.

When Waiting Periods Do Not Apply or Can Be Waived

Although waiting periods are the norm, there are important exceptions:

Life-Threatening Emergencies: In cases of medical emergencies that endanger the policyholder’s life or cause irreversible damage, most policies cover the necessary care even if the waiting period has not yet been completed. It is important to understand that the interpretation of a “life-threatening emergency” is based on medical judgment and the insurer’s criteria.
Portability or Continuity of Coverage: If you switch insurance companies and already had a previous health insurance policy with seniority, some insurers may recognize the waiting periods already completed under your former policy. However, this is neither automatic nor always total; it often requires a certificate from the previous insurer and may involve limitations or residual waiting periods for certain services.
Specific “No Waiting Period” Policies: As mentioned for visas, there are insurance products designed to offer immediate coverage for virtually all services. These policies usually come at a slightly higher cost or with specific conditions.

Waiting Periods vs. Exclusions: Understanding the Difference

It is vital not to confuse a waiting period with an exclusion:

Waiting Period: This is temporary. Once it has passed, the service is activated and covered.
Exclusion: This is permanent. It refers to a condition, illness, or service that will never be covered by the policy, regardless of how much time has passed (for example, certain undeclared pre-existing conditions or specific pathologies that the insurer decides not to cover in its general terms).

Tips for Choosing a Health Insurance Policy with Waiting Periods in Mind

Read the General and Specific Policy Terms Carefully: This is the only way to know the exact waiting periods applicable to your policy.
Ask Specific Questions: If you anticipate needing a particular service (for example, minor surgery or specific tests), ask the insurer directly about the applicable waiting period.
Consider Your Visa Requirements: If you are a foreigner applying for residency, make sure the policy meets the “no waiting period” requirements demanded by the consulate or immigration authorities.
Compare Offers: Waiting periods can vary between insurers. Use comparison tools or advisors to find the option that best fits your needs and timelines.
Evaluate Portability: If you already have insurance, ask about the possibility of transferring waiting periods when switching providers.

FAQ: Waiting Periods in Spanish Health Insurance

What happens if I need urgent surgery during my waiting period?If it is considered a “life-threatening emergency” requiring immediate attention to save your life or prevent irreversible harm, the insurer should cover the intervention even if the waiting period has not yet been completed. However, for non-life-threatening emergencies, coverage may be limited or not apply if the specific service is still under a waiting period.
Will my insurance cover childbirth if I take it out while already pregnant?No. Childbirth and maternity usually have one of the longest waiting periods (typically 8 to 10 months). If you take out insurance while already pregnant, childbirth will not be covered, as pregnancy is a known pre-existing condition and the waiting period would not be completed before delivery.
Can I take out a health insurance policy in Spain without waiting periods?Yes, it is possible. Many insurers offer “no waiting period” policies or policies with very short waiting periods, especially designed to meet visa requirements for foreigners. These policies usually have a slightly higher price due to the immediacy of coverage.
Are pre-existing conditions affected by waiting periods?Yes, but in a different way. Pre-existing conditions (illnesses or ailments you already had before taking out the insurance) may result in longer waiting periods for treatments related to that condition, or even permanent exclusion from coverage for that pathology, depending on the insurer’s policy and the severity of the condition.
How can I find out the exact waiting periods for a specific service?Detailed information about all waiting periods is included in the general terms of your policy. It is essential to read this document carefully before signing. If you have any doubts, ask your insurance agent or the insurance company directly before taking out the policy.

Understanding waiting periods is essential to managing your expectations and ensuring that your health insurance policy provides the coverage you need, when you need it.

Understanding waiting periods in Spanish health insurance is essential to choosing the right policy and avoiding unexpected delays when you need medical care the most. Waiting periods vary depending on the insurer and the type of coverage, which is why expert guidance makes a real difference.

At BMI Brokers, we assess your personal situation, compare health insurance plans from leading providers in Spain, and explain all conditions clearly and transparently. Our goal is to help you secure health insurance that truly fits your needs — without unnecessary costs or hidden surprises.

Get peace of mind from day one with the right Spanish health insurance policy. Contact BMI Brokers today for personalized advice and find the coverage that’s right for you.

Understanding Private Health Insurance in Spain

1 March, 2024/in Health insurance Blog /by Pablo

Many people have already seen the significant benefits of taking out private health Insurance in Spain. It is said that nearly 25% of Spanish residents have a health policy of one kind or another. Whilst the Spanish public system may be the envy of some other countries, it continues to come under constant pressure, and perhaps more so now since the pandemic.

Advantages of Private Health Insurance in Spain

Private health insurance offers several advantages that make it an attractive option for individuals and families seeking quality healthcare services.

One significant advantage is shorter waiting times for medical procedures and consultations compared to the public healthcare system. With private health insurance in Spain, individuals and their families can access healthcare services promptly, leading to faster diagnosis and treatment.

Another key benefit is the availability of private rooms in hospitals, providing patients with a more comfortable and personalised healthcare experience. This contributes to a higher standard of care and enhanced privacy during hospital stays.

There is a wide range of policies available and some have the ability to purchase add-on services to tailor make your private health insurance in Spain to your requirements.

Types of private health insurance in Spain

Health Insurance Spain with or without Copayments:

You can purchase a product with or without a co-payment. A co-payment is like an excess or deductible that the client agrees to pay each time they use a service. Generally the higher the excess or deductible the lower the annual premium.

Health insurance Spain reimbursement policies:

This type of policy often enables you to access private medical services and claim up to an agreed percentage of the costs back from your insurance company. You choose a private doctor, clinic or hospital that you prefer. You are not tied to the usual network of medical professionals offered by the insurance company. This gives you the flexibility to choose where you are treated and by whom.

Health insurance Spain Worldwide cover:

Some policies have an element of emergency worldwide cover. However, it is possible to contract a reimbursement policy or add-on that gives you added peace of mind when you are outside of Spain. This type of policy often enables you to access private medical services throughout the world and claim back up to an agreed percentage of the costs back from your insurance company. It also may allow you to choose a doctor, clinic or hospital outside of the insurer’s network within Spain and claim an agreed amount back as well.

Health Insurance Spain Senior Plans:

This type of health insurance is for older clients who may struggle to obtain health insurance in Spain otherwise. The actual cover available will depend on the provider but could include: primary care and some diagnostic tests.

Health Insurance Spain Basic Plans:

These plans will often cover primary consultations, simple diagnostic tests, and a limited number of surgical procedures.

Health Insurance Spain non-lucrative, golden and Digital Nomad visas

Whilst you can see, there is a wide range of possible health insurance options in Spain you must make sure you purchase the correct one if applying for a Spanish visa. If you do not then you may find your visa application declined. This could be a costly mistake if you other visa paperwork then runs out of date whilst you try to correct the situation.

Speak to an independent broker like BMI Brokers, with many years’ experience, to make sure you get the appropriate product for your visa application, at a competitive price.

Other services that may be available depending on the provider

The services below may be included in your health insurance or they could be available as an add-on to the health policy.

Dental:

Some policies will include an element of dental cover. Others may allow you to purchase it as an add-on. Depending on the company and the premium, some services will automatically be covered under the dental cover and others will have an excess or deductible.

Worldwide emergency cover:

Some health insurance include an element of emergency cover whilst travelling outside Spain. This is usually up to a fixed sum of money and for trips limited to say 60 days or as much as 120 days in some cases. This type of cover is as it says emergencies only and whilst having it is an added comfort, the cover does not replace the need for travel insurance.

Repatriation cover:

This type of cover will be of benefit to those people who would like their remains returned to their country of origin. It is sometimes contracted by people seeking a Spanish visa as some Spanish Consulates insist on you having repatriation cover.

Some policies will also include it for clients who pass away whilst outside of Spain but would wish to have their remains returned to Spain.