Parastoo Legal Group
Healthcare in Spain for Middle Eastern Expats: Private vs Public Insurance
Understanding your healthcare options in Spain as a non-EU national — and which private insurance policies are accepted for visa applications.
Healthcare is one of the most important practical considerations for Middle Eastern clients relocating to Spain. Spain has an excellent public healthcare system, but access depends on your immigration status and contribution history. Most newly arrived non-EU nationals initially rely on private health insurance — which is also a mandatory requirement for most Spanish visas.
Private Health Insurance: The Visa Requirement
All non-EU nationals applying for a Non-Lucrative Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, Student Visa, or Self-Employment Visa must hold private health insurance that covers all medical expenses in Spain with no co-payments or deductibles, issued by a company authorised to operate in Spain. Policies from international insurers (Cigna, Allianz, AXA) are generally accepted if they specify Spain coverage explicitly.
Recommended Insurance Providers
Spanish domestic insurers widely accepted for visa applications include: Adeslas, Asisa, Sanitas (a BUPA company), Mapfre Salud, and IMQ. International policies from Cigna Global, Allianz Care, and AXA International are also accepted by most consulates. We advise each client on the most appropriate policy for their situation and budget.
Transitioning to Public Healthcare
Non-EU nationals who are employed in Spain (paying Social Security contributions) or who are registered as autónomos gain access to the public Spanish health system (Sistema Nacional de Salud) as part of their Social Security rights. Family members can also be registered as beneficiaries. The quality of Spanish public healthcare is generally high.
Healthcare for Non-Lucrative Visa Holders
Non-Lucrative Visa holders cannot access the public health system (as they are not contributing to Social Security). They must maintain private health insurance throughout their residency. The annual cost of a comprehensive private health insurance policy in Spain for an adult typically ranges from €800 to €2,500 depending on age and coverage level.
Private Hospitals in Spain
Spain has excellent private hospitals in Madrid and other major cities. In Madrid, Clínica Ruber, Hospital Universitario Quirónsalud, and Hospital La Milagrosa are among the top private facilities. Several hospitals in Madrid and Marbella have Arabic-speaking staff — we can provide referrals.