Read about Health Insurance in Spain. Are you moving to Spain and your visa requirement is to pay for private insurance? Good this expat health insurance in spain guide will give you the solution.
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One of the first things you’ll need to arrange is private health insurance. Spain has a world-class healthcare system, but navigating between public and private options can be confusing, especially for New Zealanders.
This guide explains how Expat health insurance in Spain works, what coverage you’ll need, and why expat health insurance in Spain is often the best starting point.
Read How the Spanish Healthcare System Works
Spain has a dual healthcare system:
- Public health insurance (SNS) – funded through taxes, covering essential care.
- Private health insurance – offered by providers like Feather and Sanitas, giving faster access, English-speaking doctors, and more flexibility.
All residents in Spain must have health insurance. If you’re paying taxes, you’re automatically covered by the Spanish National Health System (SNS). However, many New Zealanders also choose private health insurance for shorter wait times and broader coverage.
Public vs. Private Health Insurance in Spain
Public Health Insurance in Spain (SNS)
Pros about Public Health Insurance in Spain
- Every taxpayer is accepted.
- Coverage extends to certain dependents.
- No upfront payments, just show your insurance card.
- Always covers pre-existing conditions.
Cons about Public Health Insurance in Spain
- Long wait times (average: 101 days for specialists, 128 days for surgery).
- Limited coverage for dental, vision, and advanced treatments.
- Requires GP referrals for specialists.
- No choice of doctors, and English-speaking staff can be hard to find.
- Out-of-pocket expenses for medications and non-covered services (average €403/year).
Private Expat Health Insurance in Spain
Pros about Private Health Insurance in Spain
- Faster access to care with shorter wait times.
- No referral needed for specialists.
- Access to private hospitals and clinics.
- More English-speaking doctors.
- Customizable coverage (dental, maternity, alternative therapies, etc.).
- Freedom to choose your doctors.
Cons about Private Health Insurance in Spain
- Additional monthly cost (€50–€100 on average).
- Some plans restrict you to a doctor network (not the case with Feather).
- Overlaps with public insurance coverage.
Average Cost in 2025: €698 per year (€58/month)
Do New Zealanders Need Health Insurance in Spain?
Yes. Expat Health insurance in Spain is mandatory for all residents.
- EU/EFTA citizens: You can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for short stays, but if you stay longer than 3 months, you’ll need to register with the SNS.
- Non-EU citizens: Health insurance is required for most visas. Since you can’t yet access public or standard private plans, expat health insurance in Spain is usually your only option.
Expat health insurance in Spain is a private policy designed for foreigners moving to Spain. It’s often required for visa applications and ensures coverage before you qualify for public healthcare.
What Is Feather Expat Health Insurance in Spain?
With Feather’s expat health insurance in Spain, you get:
- Pay per month and choose the date to start
- Cancel anytime before or after you arrive
- Full coverage: emergencies, consultations, tests, surgeries, hospital stays
- English-speaking services
- No waiting periods
- No copayments or deductibles
- Compliance with Schengen visa regulations
Cost: Starts at €60/month. Student and family packages are available.
Choosing the Right Expat Health Insurance in Spain
When deciding between public and private coverage, consider:
- How long you’ll be staying
- Whether you need faster access to specialists
- If you prefer English-speaking doctors
- Your visa requirements
For most newcomers, expat health insurance in Spain is the easiest and most reliable option until you qualify for the SNS.
Have a look at the full list of Expat Insurance offered by Feather’s Expat Insurance
- Expat Health Insurance: https://feather-insurance.com/en-es/health-insurance/expat
- Expat Dental Insurance: https://feather-insurance.com/en-es/dental-insurance
- Expat Home Insurance: https://feather-insurance.com/en-es/home-insurance
- Expat Car Insurance: https://feather-insurance.com/en-es/car-insurance
- Freelancer Liability Insurance: https://feather-insurance.com/en-es/business-liability-insurance/for-freelancers
Final Thoughts about Health Insurance in Spain
Spain offers excellent healthcare, but choosing the right insurance is key. Public health insurance provides universal coverage, while private and expat policies give you speed, choice, and flexibility.
Ready to get covered? Sign up for Feather’s expat health insurance – cancel anytime.
Contact Kiwis in Spain
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to message Kent or stay connected via our Facebook and Instagram pages.
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