by Medimar Homes 
If you’re planning to move to Spain or spend extended time in your Spanish property, one of the most important things to understand is how healthcare works. Spain has an excellent healthcare system, ranked among the best in Europe, and residents have access to both public and private options.
In this guide, we explain how to access Spanish healthcare, who qualifies, and what steps you need to take to ensure you’re covered—especially if you’re relocating to Almería or the wider Andalucía region.
🇪🇸 How Does Healthcare Work in Spain?
Spain operates a universal healthcare system, known as the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), which provides free or low-cost care to residents who contribute to the system through employment, self-employment, or social security.
There’s also a strong private sector offering fast access to specialists, English-speaking doctors, and shorter waiting times.
✅ Who Can Access Public Healthcare?
You’re entitled to public healthcare in Spain if:
- You’re employed or self-employed and paying into the Spanish social security system
- You are a resident receiving a state pension from another EU country (e.g. UK, Germany) with an S1 form
- You’re under 26 and in full-time education
- You qualify for coverage through a non-lucrative visa and later affiliate with a health scheme
Even if you don’t meet the above, private health insurance is widely available and often required for visa or residency applications.
📄 How to Register for Public Healthcare in Spain
To access public healthcare, you need to complete these basic steps:
1. Obtain Your NIE Number
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your foreign ID number and essential for all legal procedures.
2. Register on the Padrón
You’ll need to be registered at your local town hall to confirm your residence and address.
3. Social Security Number (Número de Seguridad Social)
If you’re working or self-employed in Spain, your employer (or your gestor) will register you with Seguridad Social. If you’re not working but qualify through other means (e.g. S1), your lawyer or gestor can apply on your behalf.
4. Health Centre Registration (Centro de Salud)
Once you have your social security number, visit your local health centre to register and be assigned a GP (médico de cabecera). Bring:
- Passport
- NIE
- Social Security number
- Padrón certificate
You’ll receive a health card (tarjeta sanitaria), which you’ll use to access care.
🩺 What About Private Healthcare?
Spain’s private healthcare system is modern and efficient. Many expats and non-residents opt for private insurance, especially if:
- You’re waiting for public healthcare access
- You need fast access to specialists or English-speaking staff
- You’re applying for residency via a non-lucrative visa, which requires comprehensive cover
Plans vary depending on age and health, but are typically affordable compared to other countries. Some major providers include Sanitas, DKV, ASISA, and Cigna.
🧾 Do I Need Private Health Insurance?
You’ll need private insurance if:
- You’re applying for a non-lucrative visa
- You’re not working or contributing to social security
- You want quicker access or English-speaking professionals
- You’re a recent arrival and not yet eligible for public healthcare
Private plans must be comprehensive, with no co-payments or exclusions, for immigration approval.
👩⚖️ Can a Lawyer Help with Registration?
Yes—many new residents choose to grant power of attorney to a local lawyer or gestor. This allows them to:
- Register you for social security
- Apply for your health card
- Liaise with town halls and health centres
- Ensure all documents are correct and translated if necessary
This is especially helpful if you’re abroad, non-Spanish speaking, or navigating the system for the first time.
🏡 Relocating to Almería or Andalucía?
At Medimar Homes, we regularly assist buyers and future residents by connecting them with trusted legal and relocation experts who can help with every step of the move—including healthcare registration, NIEs, and residency paperwork.
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