Explore the different types of private health insurance in Spain. Compare co-pay vs no co-pay plans, international coverage, dental add-ons, and visa-compliant options.

Types of Private Health Insurance Plans in Spain

Co-pay vs no co-pay, local vs international, and what to choose for residency  

Not all private health insurance in Spain is the same. Some plans are designed for quick access to local doctors. Others are built to meet residency or visa requirements, with no co-payments and full inpatient coverage. 

This guide breaks down the main types of private health insurance policies in Spain — so you can choose the right one for your situation, whether you’re moving here, already living here, or applying for a visa.

What All Plans Have in Common

Most private health insurance plans in Spain — regardless of type — include: 

• Access to GPs and specialists 

• Diagnostic tests (bloodwork, X-rays, MRIs) 

• Emergency care 

• Hospitalisation and surgery 

• Post-operative care 

• 24/7 phone support 

Plans vary in depth, network size, and extras like maternity, dental, and mental health — but the core benefits are consistent.

1. No Co-Pay Plans (Sin Copago) 

These are the most comprehensive policies available — and are required for Spanish residency and most long-stay visas.

Key features: 

• No extra fees per visit or service 

• Accepted by immigration offices and Spanish consulates 

• Full hospital and outpatient coverage 

• Set monthly premium 

✅ Ideal for: 

Non-lucrative visa applicants 

• Digital nomads 

• Anyone applying for Spanish residency 

Learn more in Health Insurance Requirements for Residency

2. Co-Pay Plans (Con Copago)

These plans have a lower monthly premium but charge a small fee per service — for example, €10–€20 for a GP visit.

Pros: 

• Cheaper monthly premium 

• Good for everyday medical needs 

Cons: 

• Not accepted for visa/residency applications 

• Extra fees can add up with frequent use 

✅ Ideal for: 

• Residents already in Spain with public access 

• People wanting faster private care without high premiums

3. International Private Health Insurance Plans

These policies offer worldwide coverage — including outside Spain — and are popular with remote workers, frequent travellers, and high-net-worth individuals. 

Features: 

• Global network of clinics 

• Emergency evacuation 

• Customised international coverage 

• Premium-level service 

Some international insurers also offer visa-compliant plans, but many don’t — check carefully. 

✅ Ideal for: 

• Expats with multi-country lifestyles 

• Digital nomads not tied to Spain year-round      

4. Basic Coverage Plans 

Some insurers offer budget-friendly plans with limited coverage — often excluding hospital stays, surgeries, or certain diagnostics. 

These are not suitable for residency applications but may work if: 

• You’re already eligible for public care 

• You only want a top-up for specialist access 

⚠️ Check the fine print — many of these do not include major hospital treatment.

5. Plans with Extras (Dental, Vision, Maternity)

Most insurers allow you to add optional extras to any plan: 

• Dental care (cleanings, fillings, extractions) 

• Vision (eye exams, lenses) 

• Maternity and childbirth (often with a waiting period) 

• Mental health services (limited sessions or providers) 

These can increase your premium slightly but are often worth it — especially for families or retirees. 

Want to see what’s typically included in a base plan? Check out What Does Private Health Insurance Cover in Spain 

How to Choose the Right Plan 

Here’s a quick guide: 

Unsure which category you’re in? Start with Who Needs Private Health Ins

Final Word

Choosing the right private health insurance plan in Spain depends on more than just price. Residency requirements, access speed, provider networks, and add-ons all matter. 

If you’re applying for a visa, always choose a no co-pay plan that covers everything, and make sure it comes from an insurer authorised in Spain. 

If you’re living here long-term or supplementing public coverage, a co-pay plan might save you money — without sacrificing access to private doctors. 

For more details, see our guide to What It Costs or explore Coverage Options in depth.