VISA SPAIN HEALTH INSURANCE

If you are from a non-EU country like USA, you are are required to obtain private health insurance as part of your visa process when you are moving to Barcelona.  In many cases, EU citizens are also required to obtain private health insurance when they are moving to Barcelona status to obtain their NIE. Also, the health insurance must meet certain conditions. 

Health Insurance in Barcelona Spain

There are two options for private health insurance  Spanish private insurance and international private insurance. Spanish is generally cheaper and more popular than international, however, international insurance does have some additional benefits and perks, such as broader coverage and the use of premium private floors in private hospitals. However, there are also differences in costs and coverage for the different Spanish health insurance companies. 

Healthcare in Barcelona Spain

The Spanish healthcare system is excellent and very reasonably priced, especially compared to the soaring costs in other parts of the world like in USA. Indeed, due to excellent medical care, coupled with low costs, Barcelona is one of the top medical tourism destinations in the world. 

Public Health in Barcelona Spain

Public healthcare in Spain is universal regardless of legal status (with limits). However, it is important to note that some visas (such as the non-lucrative visa) preclude you from this system and require that you contract private insurance as a condition of your visa.

If you are working in Spain and contributing to the social security system, you are eligible for the national healthcare system, though many locals and expats alike choose to supplement their healthcare with private insurance because it is so affordable.