Spain? Top-tier healthcare. No debate. Public hospitals, private clinics, fast emergency services—it’s all here.
But Brexit changed the game. UK citizens don’t automatically get public healthcare anymore. If you’re moving to Spain, you need a plan.
Public or private? Who qualifies for free care? What’s the real cost? Let’s break it down.
How Good Is Healthcare in Spain?
Short answer? Really good.
✔️ 7th best healthcare system in the world (WHO ranking).
✔️ Top 10 in Europe for quality care.
✔️ Life expectancy? 83.5 years. People actually live longer here.
Spain’s public system is universal—but not automatic for expats.
Can British Expats Get Free Public Healthcare?
Yes, but only if you meet the right conditions.
✔️ Got a Spanish job? → You pay into Social Security = free public healthcare.
✔️ Self-employed? → You pay into Social Security = same deal.
✔️ Retired with a UK state pension? → Use the S1 form = free public healthcare.
✔️ Living in Spain for 5+ years? → You might qualify for resident benefits.
✔️ Just visiting? → Use an EHIC/GHIC card or get travel insurance.
🔹 Not working? Not retired? You’ll need private insurance.
How to Register for Public Healthcare
If you qualify, here’s what you need to do.
📌 Step 1: Get an NIE (Foreigner’s ID Number)
You can’t do anything in Spain without it—banking, buying a house, healthcare—it all starts here.
1️⃣ Book an appointment at the Foreigner’s Office (Oficina de Extranjeros).
2️⃣ Bring your passport, proof of residency, and NIE form (EX-15).
3️⃣ Pay the €9-12 processing fee.
🔹 Once you have your NIE, you’re in the system.
📌 Step 2: Get a Spanish Social Security Number (NAF)
If you’re working or self-employed, you must register with Social Security.
1️⃣ Visit your nearest Social Security office (TGSS).
2️⃣ Bring your passport, NIE, and work contract (or self-employment registration).
3️⃣ Get your Social Security number.
🔹 Once you have this, you can access public healthcare.
📌 Step 3: Register at a Health Center (Centro de Salud)
Now you’ve got your Social Security number, time to get your health card (TSI).
1️⃣ Find your local public health center.
2️⃣ Bring your NIE, Social Security number, and proof of address.
3️⃣ Get your Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (TSI).
🔹 This card = free healthcare at any public hospital.
What About Private Healthcare?
Even if you qualify for public healthcare, many expats get private insurance too.
Why?
- Faster treatment (no long wait times).
- English-speaking doctors.
- More choice of hospitals.
💰 Private Health Insurance Costs (2024)
- Basic plan: €50-€100/month.
- Comprehensive plan: €120-€250/month.
🔹 If you’re retired but don’t have an S1 form, you NEED private insurance.
Other Healthcare Services for Expats
🏥 Maternity Care in Spain
✔️ Public maternity care is free for residents & S1 holders.
✔️ Private hospitals? More options, English-speaking doctors, luxury maternity suites.
🚑 Emergency Medical Care in Spain
✔️ Public hospitals won’t charge you for emergencies—even if you’re a tourist.
✔️ Dial 112 for an ambulance—it’s free.
✔️ No EHIC/GHIC card? They’ll bill you later—but it’s still cheaper than the UK.
🦷 Dental Care in Spain
Public healthcare doesn’t cover dental work.
💰 Costs:
- Basic check-up: €30-€80.
- Fillings: €50-€120.
- Private dental insurance: €10-€30/month.
🔹 If you need regular dental work, get private insurance.
So What’s the Best Healthcare Plan for Expats?
✔️ Working? → You pay Social Security, so you get free healthcare.
✔️ Retired with a UK pension? → Use the S1 form for free healthcare.
✔️ Self-employed? → You pay into Social Security, so you’re covered.
✔️ Not working & not retired? → You must buy private insurance.
The Bottom Line
Spain’s healthcare system? Fantastic. But you have to know how to access it.
If you qualify, get registered for public healthcare.
If you don’t, get private insurance before moving.
💬 Still have questions? Drop them below! 👇
