Retired expats living in Spain must understand how the healthcare system works in the country in order to access the best medical assistance at this stage of life.
Understanding Spain’s Healthcare System for Retirees
Spain is a popular destination for retirees due to its great climate and lifestyle.
Important! The high quality public healthcare system in Spain might be an attraction, but it is key to acknowledge not all retired expats are eligible to access free medical services.
How the Public Healthcare System (SNS) Works for Retirees
The Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS) is Spain’s universal healthcare system, offering comprehensive medical services to citizens and residents who meet some requirements.
Eligibility Based on Residency or Pension Status
The process to access the public healthcare system is closely related to the residency situation of retirees.
Getting health insurance in Spain for expats while applying for residency involves showing proof of healthcare coverage. While European Union, Norway, Switzerland, the UK, Iceland and Liechtenstein residents can apply for the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to get temporary emergency coverage, people from other countries have to take out private insurance.
Foreign citizens receiving public pensions in their country can prove that they are entitled to health care in Spain at the expense of the State from which they receive their pension filling the S1 form.
Other retired expats, who do not meet the requirements to access SNS, might also consider the special agreement (Convenio Especial) on healthcare provision if they can prove they have resided in Spain for over a year and are registered in their municipality, which requires paying monthly fees – 60 euros per month for expats under 65, 157 euros per month if you are older–.
Common Limitations for Retired Residents
Although the Spanish public healthcare system is well-known for its quality, it also has its drawbacks.
Retirees require comprehensive health coverage to meet their needs at this stage, including periodic check-ups, visits with specialists, medication and treatments.
While the public system covers most of these, waiting times to access specialists and the language barrier make many expats prefer private insurance.
Benefits of Private Health Insurance for Retirees in Spain
Private health insurance for retirees in Spain is a common alternative to the SNS because it offers many advantages.
Avoiding long wait times for specialist care or surgeries
The long waiting times to access specialist appointments or surgeries are a downside of the broad public healthcare system.
Access to English-speaking doctors and tailored medical care
Private hospitals and clinics in Spain often count with multilingual professionals, which is key to getting accurate diagnosis, and tailored insurance plans.
Coverage for services not included in the public system, such as advanced diagnostics or private hospitals
Dental and vision care are not included in the public healthcare services in Spain.
Cost Analysis: Public vs. Private Healthcare for Retirees
Regarding the cost of each option, there are several factors that affect the final expenses.
Typical Costs for Retirees Using Public Healthcare
Most public healthcare services are free, although prescriptions and medication usually have co-payments.
In case of applying to the Convenio Especial mentioned above, the monthly fee is either 60 euros or 157, depending on your age.
Average Private Health Insurance Premiums for Retirees
Private health insurance premiums in Spain for retirees vary depending on the age and the coverage.
Factors Influencing Costs
Older retirees face higher premiums and, depending on their age, might not be eligible to get a new policy.
Pre-existing conditions and the coverage level of each plan can also affect the premium amounts.
Choosing the Best Private Health Insurance for Retirement in Spain
All in all, the best private health insurance for retirement in Spain depends on the particular needs of every person and family.
Recommended Insurers for Retirees
Insurance brokers like Just Insurance specialize in plans for expats and retirees with the best health insurance providers in Spain, with a deep knowledge of the market that ensures the best value for money and tailored coverage.
What retirees should look for: age limits, pre-existing conditions, and family coverage
Focus on finding an insurance plan that is suitable for your age, medical history and family.
Additional Services to Consider
Depending on your situation, you might want to consider a plan that includes some additional services, such as home care or wellness programs.
Legal Requirements and Healthcare for Retired Expats
Health Insurance as a Requirement for Residency Permits
Retirees applying for residency permits are required to show proof of healthcare coverage.
Understanding the S1 Form for Retirees from EU Countries
The S1 form allows retirees from EU and other countries to transfer their healthcare rights to Spain, allowing full access to the SNS.
Special Considerations for Retirees on Non-Lucrative or Golden Visas
Most residents from other countries under non-lucrative or Golden visas are required to get private health insurance throughout their stay, unless they choose to enroll in the Convenio Especial.
Making the Decision: Is Private Health Insurance Worth It for Retirees?
How health needs change in retirement and the role of private insurance
Retirees benefit from comprehensive healthcare plans and fast access to diagnosis and specialists.
Weighing the pros and cons: peace of mind vs. cost
To sum up, retirees who can access the SNS will have low cost access to healthcare services, but private insurance can offer more convenient and effective medical care.
Practical tips for retirees to make the most of their healthcare choices
If you are looking for the right health insurance plan as an expat in Spain, contact us and we will assess you on finding the best option according to your specific situation.
References
European Commission. (n.d.). European Health Insurance Card. Employment, Social Affairs & Inclusion. Retrieved January 20, 2025, from https://employment-social-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies-and-activities/moving-working-europe/eu-social-security-coordination/european-health-insurance-card_en
European Commission. (n.d.). Applying for a European Health Insurance Card. Employment, Social Affairs & Inclusion. Retrieved January 20, 2025, from https://employment-social-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies-and-activities/moving-working-europe/eu-social-security-coordination/european-health-insurance-card/applying-european-health-insurance-card_en
Government of Spain. (2024). European Health Insurance Card. La Moncloa. Retrieved January 20, 2025, from https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/lang/en/gobierno/news/paginas/2024/european-health-insurance-card.aspx#:~:text=The%20European%20Health%20Insurance%20Card%20does%20not%20cover%20private%20health,it%20cover%20repatriation%20or%20rescue
