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Health Insurance Guides | Spanish Health Insurance
📖 Expert Guides

Health insurance in Spain,
explained in plain English

In-depth guides on Sanitas plans, visa requirements, clinic networks, pricing and everything else expats need to know about private healthcare in Spain.

Spain's private health insurance market is confusing — especially if you're applying for a Non-Lucrative Visa, Digital Nomad Visa or moving from the UK, US or elsewhere without knowing the system. These guides explain every aspect of Sanitas health insurance in Spain in plain English: which plans are visa-approved, how co-pays work, what repatriation cover actually means, how to get English-speaking doctors, and how much you should really be paying. Use the topics below to find exactly what you need.

Featured guides

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NLV Visa

Non-Lucrative Visa Health Insurance: 2026 Requirements

The updated list of what Spanish consulates will actually accept — no-copay requirement, repatriation, minimum coverage levels, 12-month validity and which Sanitas plans qualify.

Updated Mar 20269 min read
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Costs & Pricing

Copay vs No-Copay: Which Saves You More?

We ran the numbers for light, moderate and heavy users of private healthcare in Spain. The answer isn't always obvious.

22 Jan 20268 min read

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❓ Common questions

Frequently asked questions

What health insurance do I need for a Non-Lucrative Visa?
Spanish consulates require a private health policy with no co-payments, repatriation cover, no waiting periods and no coverage limits — valid for at least 12 months and renewable. The only Sanitas plans that meet all NLV requirements are Residents and Residents Platinum.
Does Sanitas cover English-speaking doctors?
Yes. Sanitas operates the Blua digital platform, which gives 24/7 video and phone access to English-speaking GPs. Many Sanitas clinics in larger cities also have English-speaking specialists. See our Blua guide for the full picture.
What is the difference between co-pay and no co-pay plans?
With a co-pay plan you pay a small fixed fee (usually €2–€5) each time you visit a GP or specialist — your monthly premium is lower as a result. A no co-pay plan has a higher premium but every consultation is free at the point of use. Visa applicants must choose no co-pay.
How much does Sanitas health insurance cost in Spain?
Entry-level plans start from around €22–€34 per month for individuals, rising to €107+ for premium no-copay cover. Your exact premium depends on age, the plan you choose and the number of people on the policy. See our Sanitas price guide for a full breakdown.
Can I get Sanitas health insurance before I have my NIE?
Yes — Sanitas does not require a NIE to take out a policy, which is important if you need health cover to support your visa application before you arrive in Spain. Read our guide on getting Sanitas without a NIE for step-by-step instructions.
Does Sanitas include repatriation cover?
Repatriation — the cost of returning your body to your home country if you die in Spain — is included in the Residents and Residents Platinum plans, and is required for both the NLV and Digital Nomad Visa. See our repatriation cover guide to understand exactly what is and isn't included.
What health insurance do I need for the Digital Nomad Visa?
The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa requires a private health policy with no co-payments, repatriation cover, no waiting periods and no coverage limits — the same core requirements as the NLV. The policy must be valid for the full duration of your visa. See our Digital Nomad Visa insurance guide for the full requirements.
Does Sanitas cover me if I travel outside Spain?
Standard Sanitas plans cover you within Spain only. If you need emergency cover abroad, Sanitas offers optional international add-ons, or you can look at the Sanitas Internacional range. For most expats living full-time in Spain, domestic coverage is sufficient — but it's worth checking if you travel frequently.
How quickly does Sanitas activate after I sign up?
Sanitas Residents and Residents Platinum activate with no waiting periods whatsoever — cover begins from day one, including specialist consultations, diagnostics and hospital treatment. This is essential for visa applicants who need a certificate issued immediately after taking out the policy.

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Sanitas — Part of Bupa

Founded in 1954 and part of the Bupa Group since 1989, Sanitas is Spain's most recognised private health insurer — giving members direct access to the largest private medical network in the country.

58,000+ Healthcare Professionals Doctors, specialists & nurses
4,500+ Medical Centres Clinics & diagnostic labs
2.9M+ Customers Across Spain
Since 1954 Established Part of the Bupa Group