Spain Golden Visa holders can access the public healthcare system and choose private health insurance for additional coverage.
Spain Golden Visa holders have specific healthcare rights that allow them to access medical services during their stay in Spain. Here’s a detailed overview:
1. Private Health Insurance Requirement
- Mandatory Health Insurance: One of the primary requirements for obtaining and maintaining the Spain Golden Visa is having valid private health insurance. This insurance must provide comprehensive coverage equivalent to the services offered by the Spanish public healthcare system, including medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation. The insurance policy must be valid throughout the duration of the visa holder’s stay in Spain.
- Private Healthcare Access: Golden Visa holders typically rely on their private health insurance to access private healthcare services in Spain. The private healthcare system in Spain is highly regarded for its quality, short waiting times, and access to specialized treatments.
2. Access to Public Healthcare
- Eligibility for Public Healthcare: Spain Golden Visa holders are generally not automatically eligible for the public healthcare system (Seguridad Social) unless they become tax residents. To access public healthcare services, Golden Visa holders must contribute to the Spanish social security system, which is typically done through employment or self-employment in Spain.
- Voluntary Contributions: Some regions in Spain allow non-working residents, including Golden Visa holders, to voluntarily contribute to the public healthcare system through a special agreement known as “Convenio Especial.” This agreement allows them to pay a monthly fee to access public healthcare services.
3. Healthcare for Family Members
- Family Coverage: The healthcare rights and requirements for the primary Golden Visa holder also extend to their dependent family members included in the visa application. This means that spouses, children, and dependent parents must also have private health insurance or access to public healthcare under similar conditions.
4. Emergency Medical Care
- Emergency Services: Regardless of their insurance status, Spain Golden Visa holders are entitled to receive emergency medical care in public hospitals if needed. Spain’s healthcare system ensures that emergency services are provided to everyone, including non-residents, in critical situations.
Summary
Spain Golden Visa holders must have private health insurance that provides comprehensive coverage during their stay. While they can access private healthcare services directly through this insurance, they may also access public healthcare if they become tax residents or voluntarily contribute to the social security system. Emergency medical care is available to all, regardless of insurance status. For detailed guidance on healthcare options and rights, consulting resources like Movingto.io and official Spanish healthcare websites is advisable.