Healthcare in Spain: A Complete Guide for Canadian Expats
Spain is renowned for its excellent system of healthcare in Spain, but understanding how to access it as a Canadian expat is a crucial part of your relocation plan. This guide explains the public and private systems, what you need for your visa, and how to ensure you have the right coverage.
The Spanish Healthcare System: Public vs. Private Options
Funded by Social Security
Spain’s public healthcare is universal and of high quality. It is primarily funded through social security contributions from workers and employers. To access it, you generally need to be employed or self-employed in Spain and paying into the system. It is not typically available to new Canadian expats on non-working visas.
Essential Route for Most Expats
For most visa applications, you are required to have comprehensive private health insurance. The private system offers benefits like shorter wait times and English-speaking staff, making it a popular choice for expats seeking healthcare in Spain.
Health Insurance Requirements for Your Spanish Visa
To be approved for a long-stay visa, your private health insurance policy must meet these specific criteria:
- Full Coverage: The policy must offer coverage equivalent to the public system, without co-payments (sin copagos).
- Spanish Insurer: It must be from an insurance company authorized to operate in Spain.
- No Waiting Periods: The policy must be fully active from day one, with no waiting periods (sin carencias) for services.
- Full Year of Coverage: You must purchase and pay for a full year of coverage in advance.
- Repatriation Included: The policy must include repatriation of remains coverage.
The "Convenio Especial": A Pay-In Scheme for Public Healthcare
The *Convenio Especial* is a special public health insurance scheme for residents who are not otherwise eligible for public healthcare (e.g., early retirees). After one year of legal residency, you can apply to pay a monthly fee (currently around €60 for under 65s, €157 for 65+) to gain access to the public system. This can be an excellent option for long-term healthcare in Spain after your initial year of private insurance.
Finding the Right Insurance Plan for Your Needs
Choosing the right health insurance plan that meets all visa requirements can be confusing. We have partnered with a trusted insurance broker who specializes in finding the best, fully compliant plans for Canadian expats, ensuring you get the right coverage for your healthcare in Spain at a competitive price.
FAQ
Do I need to cancel my provincial healthcare in Canada?
Yes. Once you become a resident of Spain, you are no longer eligible for your Canadian provincial healthcare plan. You must inform them of your move to avoid any issues.
Can my private insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
This is a critical point. Many standard private insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions. You must declare them during the application process. Some specialized, more expensive plans may offer coverage.
What is a "copago"?
A *copago* is a co-payment, a small fee you pay each time you use a service. For visa purposes, your insurance policy must have *no copayments* (*sin copagos*).
How do I find a doctor or specialist?
With private insurance, you will receive access to your insurer’s network of doctors and hospitals (*cuadro médico*). You can simply choose a professional from their directory and book an appointment directly.
Is dental care included?
Dental care is generally not covered by the public system or basic private health insurance plans. This part of healthcare in Spain is typically an add-on (complemento dental) that you can purchase separately.
