You don't need to wait until you have Spanish residency or a NIE number to get health insurance. Sanitas welcomes applicants before arrival and provides instant coverage worldwide.
Yes, You Can Get Sanitas Before Residency
One of the most common misconceptions among people planning to move to Spain is that you must wait to have residency, a NIE, or be physically present in the country to obtain health insurance. This is completely false. Sanitas specifically supports enrollments from people who haven't arrived yet, don't have residency, and have only a passport as identification. You can enroll from your home country while still in the visa application process and have coverage ready the moment you arrive in Spain.
✓Key Advantage: Getting insurance before you arrive means you're protected from day one, avoid gaps in coverage, and can provide proof of insurance for visa applications if needed.
Why Get Insurance Before Arriving?
There are several compelling reasons to obtain Sanitas health insurance before you physically arrive in Spain:
Visa Application Support
- Many visas require proof of health insurance coverage
- Sanitas can provide instant coverage certificates
- Demonstrates financial responsibility to authorities
- Some visa categories specifically require this documentation
- Speeds up visa approval process
Complete Day-One Readiness
- You arrive in Spain with active health insurance already in place
- No scrambling to find doctors or hospitals
- Access to 24/7 medical helpline immediately
- Full emergency coverage from your first day
- Peace of mind during stressful relocation period
Avoid Coverage Gaps and Delays
- Pre-arranged coverage starts the moment you arrive
- No waiting for first payment to process in Spain
- No delays opening Spanish bank accounts
- No administrative confusion upon arrival
- Uninterrupted coverage from day one
Medical Needs During Transition
- Jet lag and travel fatigue are common
- Unfamiliar water, food can cause minor ailments
- Prescription refills may be needed
- Stress-related health issues during relocation
- Accidents can happen during moving
Ready to get covered before you arrive?
Only Sanitas Residents & Residents Platinum are approved for NLV and DNV visa applications.
What You Need to Enroll Before Residency
The enrollment requirements are intentionally minimal to support people in your situation:
Required Documents
- Valid passport (primary identification)
- Email address (for digital communications)
- Phone number (international format fine)
- Expected address in Spain (can be hotel, rental, friends' address)
- Credit card for payment (international accepted)
NOT Required (Common Misconceptions)
- NIE (Spanish ID number) - absolutely not required
- Spanish residency - not required at all
- Spanish bank account - not needed
- Employment contract - not required
- Visa documentation - not required
- Physical presence in Spain - not required
- Rental contract or property ownership - not needed
Timeline for Pre-Arrival Enrollment
You can enroll at any point before your arrival. Here's an optimal timeline:
1
3-6 Months Before Arrival
Begin visa application process. Once visa approval is likely, enroll in Sanitas for peace of mind and visa documentation if required.
2
1-2 Months Before Arrival
If visa is approved and your arrival date is confirmed, enroll immediately. You have flexibility to adjust start date.
3
2-4 Weeks Before Arrival
Final enrollment stage. Sanitas can start coverage on your exact arrival date or sooner. Confirm your preferred start date.
4
Week Before Arrival
Verify payment method is ready, confirm address in Spain, and finalize any details. You're all set for day one.
5
Day of Arrival
Coverage is already active. Download your policy documents, save your customer portal login, and rest easy knowing you're protected.
Visa Application Requirements
Different visa categories have different health insurance requirements. Sanitas can help with all types:
Common Spanish Visa Categories
- Non-lucrative visa (D Visado): Often requires proof of health insurance
- Student visa: Many universities require health coverage documentation
- Work visa: Employers may require proof of insurance
- Family reunification visa: May require coverage documentation
- Digital nomad visa: Typically requires health insurance proof
- Residency visa (after 5 years): May require insurance verification
How Sanitas Helps With Visa Applications
- Provides official coverage certificates in PDF format
- Certificates include policy number, coverage dates, and included services
- Valid as official proof of insurance for Spanish authorities
- Coverage can begin before your visa approval
- Easy to print or submit electronically
- Customer service can provide additional documentation if needed
Documents Needed for Visa Application
When submitting your visa application, you may need to provide:
- Proof of health insurance (Sanitas certificate)
- Copy of your passport
- Proof of economic solvency (varies by visa type)
- Employment letter or retirement documentation (depending on visa)
- Rental contract or invitation letter for accommodation
- Travel tickets or flight bookings
What Happens After You Arrive
First Days in Spain (Days 1-3)
- Day 1: Your Sanitas coverage is already active upon arrival. Download the mobile app on your phone for emergency contacts and provider locator. Save your customer portal login (username is typically your email)
- Day 2: Find nearby hospitals and pharmacies using the Sanitas app or website provider search. Familiarize yourself with the system. Call the 24/7 medical helpline to test the service and confirm it's working.
- Day 3: If you experience any health issues during travel fatigue or adjustment, you can visit a doctor immediately. Present your policy number (either on phone or physical card if you received one). You're covered from day one.
First Week - Getting Your NIE (Days 4-7)
- Register with Town Hall (Padrón): Visit your local town hall with passport and proof of accommodation. This registration is typically very quick and is usually the first step toward NIE.
- Schedule Police Appointment: Contact the National Police headquarters (Oficina de Extranjería) to schedule your NIE appointment. Wait times vary by location (2-6 weeks typically in major cities).
- Prepare Documentation: Gather required documents: passport original + copy, completed form EX-15 (application form), proof of registration from town hall, and money for the small fee (€10-15).
- Attend Appointment: Present yourself at the scheduled time with all documents. The appointment is usually 10-15 minutes. NIE is issued immediately or within a few days via post.
First Week-Two Weeks - Opening Spanish Bank Account
- Choose Your Bank: Popular options for expats include CaixaBank (best online service), BBVA (user-friendly app), Openbank (fully digital), Santander (widespread), and Sabadell. Openbank and Revolut don't require in-person visits.
- What You Need: Valid passport, proof of address (rental contract, utility bill, or even Airbnb confirmation), initial deposit (typically €100-300), NIE (optional - you can use passport).
- Process: Visit branch or apply online. In-person visits take 30-45 minutes. Online applications can be completed in 15 minutes.
- Timing: Account opens within 1-3 business days. Physical card arrives within 7-10 days. You can start using the account for direct debits before receiving the card.
- Cost: Most checking accounts for residents are free or have minimal annual fees (€0-40). Compare options before choosing.
Weeks 2-4 - Switch Your Sanitas Payment for Better Rates
- Update Payment Method: Once your Spanish bank account is open, log into your Sanitas portal and update your payment method from credit card to direct debit from your Spanish account.
- Rate Reduction: Switching to Spanish bank direct debit typically reduces your monthly payment by 5-15% depending on your plan. This discount applies immediately at your next billing cycle.
- Annual Savings: For example, switching Accede from credit card (€22.65) to direct debit (€19.50) saves €38.40 per year, or 6% of your annual cost.
- Example Timeline: Arrive with €22.65/month rate → Open bank account by Day 10 → Switch to direct debit by Day 20 → Enjoy €19.50/month rate starting next billing cycle.
Pre-Arrival to Arrival Timeline (Comprehensive 6-Month View)
1
6 Months Before Arrival - Research & Planning
Begin researching your visa options, Spanish healthcare system, and insurance needs. Identify which visa category you're pursuing (non-lucrative, work, student, etc.). Contact the Spanish consulate for specific requirements.
2
3-4 Months Before Arrival - Visa Application
Submit your visa application through the Spanish consulate. Get quotes from Sanitas or contact a Sanitas Exclusive Agent about which plan meets your visa requirements. Begin gathering required documents for your specific visa type.
3
2 Months Before Arrival - Visa Approval & Enrollment
Once your visa is approved (or while awaiting approval), enroll in Sanitas online using your passport. Choose a plan that meets visa requirements. First payment processes immediately. You have official proof of insurance to submit with any remaining visa documents.
4
1 Month Before Arrival - Confirm & Prepare
Verify your Sanitas enrollment is active, download policy documents, and save your customer portal login. Confirm your arrival date with Sanitas. Arrange accommodation in Spain if not done. Prepare all documents needed for NIE application and bank account opening.
5
Day of Arrival - Coverage Activated
Your Sanitas coverage is already active as you arrive. Download the mobile app immediately. You have full access to doctors, hospitals, and the 24/7 medical line. You're protected from the moment you land.
6
Days 1-7 After Arrival - Register & Get NIE Started
Register with your town hall (Padrón) immediately. This is often required for residency and opens the path to NIE. Begin NIE application process at National Police headquarters. Your Sanitas coverage provides medical support throughout this busy period.
7
Days 7-14 After Arrival - Open Bank Account
Open your Spanish bank account with the documents now in hand. Many banks operate with expat-friendly staff and processes. Account opens within 2-5 business days. You're now positioned to switch to Spanish direct debit.
8
Weeks 3-4 - Optimize Your Setup
Update your Sanitas payment to Spanish bank direct debit, reducing your monthly cost by 5-15%. Update your Sanitas account with your new NIE if you've received it. You're now fully settled with optimized insurance rates and Spanish banking in place.
Sanitas Plans Recommended Before Arrival
These plans are specifically recommended depending on your visa type:
For Non-Lucrative Visa (Most Common)
- Sanitas Residents: from €67.76/month — The standard NLV-approved plan. No copayments, full hospital and specialist coverage, repatriation included. Recognised by Spanish consulates worldwide.
- Sanitas Residents Platinum: from €107.23/month — Enhanced NLV-approved coverage with worldwide emergency protection and premium benefits.
For Work Visa
- Más Salud or Sanitas Plus: €82.94-65/month - Recommended for comprehensive coverage as supplement to employer insurance
- Check with employer: Some employers provide insurance, but Sanitas provides additional coverage and independence
For Student Visa
- Student Plan: €18-25/month - Special reduced rates for university students. Often required by the university.
- Sanitas Residents: €67.76/month - If student plan doesn't meet university requirements
For Digital Nomad Visa
- Sanitas Residents: from €67.76/month — The DNV-approved plan. No copayments, full specialist and hospital coverage, recognised by Spanish consulates for Digital Nomad Visa applications.
- Sanitas Residents Platinum: from €107.23/month — Premium DNV-approved option with worldwide emergency cover.
Visa-Approved Plans
For NLV & DNV Applicants
Only two Sanitas plans are officially accepted by Spanish consulates for NLV and DNV visa applications.
Sanitas Residents
No copay · No waiting periods · From day 1
NLV ✓DNV ✓
From
€67.76
/mo
- ✓ NLV & DNV visa-compliant
- ✓ Full hospital & specialist cover
- ✓ Repatriation included
- ✓ Same-day certificate
Residents Platinum
Worldwide cover · Premium benefits
NLV ✓DNV ✓
From
€107.23
/mo
- ✓ NLV & DNV visa-compliant
- ✓ Worldwide emergency coverage
- ✓ Enhanced dental & pharmacy
- ✓ Same-day certificate
No other Sanitas plans are designated for NLV or DNV visa use.
Applying From Your Home Country - Detailed Process
Applying for Sanitas insurance before you arrive is straightforward and can be done entirely online from your home country:
Step-by-Step Online Enrollment Process
- Step 1 - Visit Sanitas Website: Go to the Sanitas website and navigate to the individual health insurance section (look for "Seguro Médico" or personal insurance)
- Step 2 - Get a Quote: Enter your age, desired coverage level, and desired start date. System shows you available plans and prices immediately
- Step 3 - Select Your Plan: Choose a plan that meets your visa requirements. Sanitas Exclusive Agent can help if you're unsure which plan to select
- Step 4 - Personal Information: Enter your full name (exactly as on passport), date of birth, nationality, passport number, email, and phone number
- Step 5 - Address: Enter your expected address in Spain. If uncertain, you can use a hotel, Airbnb, friend's address, or even just the city name
- Step 6 - Choose Payment Method: Select international credit card (Visa or Mastercard). You can change to direct debit later
- Step 7 - Payment: Enter your card details securely. Payment processes within minutes
- Step 8 - Confirmation: You receive immediate policy number via email. Your coverage is active from your chosen start date
- Total time: 15-20 minutes from beginning to having active coverage
Getting Your Coverage Certificate
- Sanitas provides official coverage certificate immediately upon enrollment
- Certificate is in PDF format and includes your policy number, covered dates, and benefits summary
- Valid as official proof of insurance for Spanish authorities and visa applications
- Can be printed or submitted electronically to consulates
- Certificate remains valid throughout your coverage period even if you update your details
Frequently Asked Questions About Pre-Arrival Coverage
Can I enroll in Sanitas before my visa is approved? ›
Yes, absolutely. You can enroll anytime before or after visa approval. There's no requirement to wait for visa authorization. Many people enroll while their visa is being processed to have everything ready for arrival.
How do I know what visa category I'm applying for? ›
Contact the Spanish consulate in your country. Their website lists specific requirements for each visa type, including insurance requirements. Different visa types have different coverage needs - the consulate website will specify yours.
Can the Sanitas Exclusive Agent help me confirm visa requirements? ›
Yes. Sanitas staff are highly experienced with visa requirements for various Spanish visa categories. Customer service can confirm details and recommend appropriate plans, though the Spanish consulate has final authority on requirements.
What if my arrival date changes after I've enrolled? ›
No problem. You can adjust your coverage start date anytime. Contact customer service online or by phone to delay or advance your coverage date. There's no penalty for changing the start date before your policy begins.
Is my coverage truly active before I arrive in Spain? ›
Yes, absolutely. Coverage begins on the exact date you specify during enrollment, even if you're still in your home country. This is valuable for visa documentation purposes - you can prove you have coverage even before your flight.
Can I pay for my insurance internationally before arriving in Spain? ›
Yes. Use your international credit or debit card from your home country - Visa and Mastercard from any country are accepted. Once you arrive and open a Spanish bank account, you can switch to direct debit for lower rates.
What if I haven't decided on my exact address in Spain yet? ›
You can use a temporary address during enrollment - hotel, Airbnb, friend's place, or even just a city name works. Update your address in the customer portal once you've secured permanent accommodation. Your coverage is unaffected by address changes.
Do I need the insurance certificate immediately or can it be provided later? ›
Certificates are provided immediately upon enrollment - download them right away. You can download certificates anytime you need them from your customer portal. Many people download multiple copies for visa applications and personal records.
What if my visa is denied after I've already enrolled? ›
You can cancel anytime with a prorated refund. If you cancel within 14 days of enrollment, you get a full refund regardless of the reason. After 14 days, you receive a refund for any unused months of coverage.
Can I use Sanitas coverage while I'm still outside Spain during my initial arrival? ›
Coverage applies in Spain and specific covered territories. Most plans include coverage in EU countries and some extra-European destinations, but this varies. Check your specific plan. You're fully covered the moment you arrive in Spain.
Is there any advantage to enrolling far in advance, like 3+ months before arrival? ›
You choose exactly when your coverage starts, so enrolling far in advance gives peace of mind but doesn't provide benefits until your chosen start date. You can enroll 6 months early and have coverage start on your exact arrival date.
What happens if I need medical care in my home country before arriving in Spain? ›
Sanitas coverage only applies in Spain and covered territories - not in your home country. For medical needs before arrival, use your home country insurance. Your Sanitas coverage begins when you arrive in Spain as specified.
Can I get travel insurance that covers me before my Sanitas coverage starts? ›
Yes. Travel insurance covers medical emergencies during your travel to Spain. Once you arrive and your Sanitas coverage begins, Sanitas takes over as your primary coverage. Travel insurance is inexpensive and provides peace of mind during the transition.
How quickly does my first payment process when applying from abroad? ›
International credit card payments typically process within 1-5 minutes. You receive immediate confirmation via email with your policy number. Your coverage is active from your chosen start date, regardless of when payment processes.
What if the exchange rate is bad when I pay with my international card? ›
Your credit card company sets the exchange rate at the time of transaction. There's no way to lock in a better rate through Sanitas. However, switching to a Spanish bank direct debit eliminates currency conversion once you arrive.
