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Is healthcare really free for EU citizens in Spain?
Spain is known for its high quality, accessible and equitable public healthcare system. But what about European Union (EU) citizens – can they benefit from Spanish healthcare services free of charge? The answer is yes, but in certain cases. Here we are going to tell you how and who can access and what steps to follow to enjoy free healthcare in Spain.
Who is eligible for free healthcare in Spain?
EU citizens can access free healthcare in Spain if they meet one of the following requirements:
- Registered residents in Spain: If you are an EU citizen officially residing in Spain, you have the right to free healthcare, just like Spanish nationals.
- EU pensioners: Pensioners receiving income from their home country can also access free healthcare, but specific administrative steps are required.
- European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) holders: Tourists and temporary visitors can use their EHIC to receive emergency medical care.
What does free healthcare cover for EU citizens?
Spain’s public healthcare system offers a wide range of services, including:
- Primary care: Medical consultations, diagnoses, and prescriptions at local health centers.
- Specialist care: Treatments at hospitals and consultations with specialists, depending on the medical condition.
- Emergency medical services: Access to emergency care at hospitals or health centers.
- Public health programs: Vaccinations, disease prevention, and community health services.
Steps to access free healthcare as an EU citizen
- Register your residence in Spain:
If you plan to live in Spain, you must register with the local municipality and obtain a registration certificate as an EU resident. This document is essential for accessing public healthcare. - Obtain a social security number:
To access healthcare services, you need to register with Spain’s social security system. This can be done at the local offices of the Instituto Nacional de la Seguridad Social (INSS). - Apply for an individual healthcare card:
Once you are registered in the social security system, you can apply for your healthcare card at the health center corresponding to your address. This card grants you access to free medical services. - Use the European Health Insurance Card for temporary visits:
If you are visiting Spain temporarily, bring your EHIC. This document facilitates access to essential medical services without additional costs.
Special cases: What about EU pensioners?
EU pensioners residing in Spain can benefit from public healthcare, but they must manage the S1 form in their home country. This document confirms that their healthcare is covered by the social security system in the country where they receive their pension.
What happens if you don’t meet the requirements?
For EU citizens who do not fulfill the mentioned conditions, there are options to access Spain’s public healthcare:
- Private health insurance: Required in some cases to obtain residency in Spain.
- Voluntary contribution to the public healthcare system: An option for residents not covered by the social security system.