If you moved to Spain from Ukraine, Poland, or another country, sooner or later the question will arise: do you need private health insurance? The answer is almost always yes. Here's why, how much it costs, and how to apply.
I'm Olesia Brych, official agent DKV in Spain, specializing in health insurance in Spain. I have already helped hundreds of families find the right insurance at a good price.
Is insurance required for foreigners in Spain?
| Your situation | Do I need insurance? |
|---|---|
| Apply for a residence permit | ✅ Yes - a prerequisite |
| Student visa type D | ✅ Yes - required to obtain a visa |
| Family reunion | ✅ Yes - for each family member |
| Digital Nomad Visa | ✅ Yes - mandatory requirement |
| There is access to public healthcare (SNS) | ⚠️ Not required, but recommended — queues 3–6 months |
| Tourist (up to 90 days) | ⚠️ Recommended — a travel policy is enough |
| Temporary protection | ⚠️ Not required, but recommended — queues 3–6 months |
💡 Not sure if you need insurance in your case? Write to me and I will help you figure it out. Consultation and quotes – free.
What does health insurance cover in Spain?
Here's what's included in the DKV standard plan:
| Service | Included? |
|---|---|
| General practitioner and specialists | ✅ Yes. Without any restrictions, you choose the doctor you want to see. |
| Analyses and diagnostics (ultrasound, MRI, CT) | ✅ Yes |
| Emergency assistance 24/7 throughout Spain | ✅ Yes |
| Hospitalization and surgeries | ✅ Yes |
| Online consultations (video call) | ✅ Yes - through the DKV Salud app |
| Psychological support | ✅ In Integral plans and some standard plans |
| Pregnancy and childbirth | ⏳ Yes, but there is a waiting period (carencia) of 8 months |
| Dentistry | ✅ Yes |
| Travel insurance | ✅ Yes |
How much does health insurance cost for foreigners 2026
The price depends on age, place of residence in Spain and the chosen plan. DKV indicative prices:
| Age | Basic policy (Without surgeries and hospitalizations) | DKV Integral | DKV Mundisalud | DKV Selección |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0–17 years old | from €30/month | from €61/month | €39/month | |
| 18–35 years old | from €45/month | from €78/month | €39/month | |
| 36–45 years old | from €65/month | from €97/month | €39/month | |
| 46–55 years old | from €76/month | from €120/month | €68/month | |
| 56–65 years old | from €94/month | from €150/month | €68/month | |
| 66-99 years old | €135/month |
💡 Tip: Family of 2 adults (e.g. 30 and 33 years old) + child = approximately €75–145/month depending on the plan. There are family discounts: 10% for 3 people insured and 15% for 4 or more.
Why DKV is the best choice for foreigners
- Over 51,000 doctors and clinics throughout Spain - mainland and islands
- The policy is accepted for residence permit/TIE, student visa and digital nomad visa
- DKV Salud app: doctor's appointment, video consultation, viewing test results
- Policy issued in 24–48 hours — you receive it by email
- Ukrainian language support through our agent
- The entire process is online — no unnecessary trips
How to apply for health insurance: step-by-step instructions
- Step 1: Write to me on WhatsApp or Telegram - indicate age, number of people and type of residence/visa
- Step 2: I calculate a personal cost and send options - free of charge and without obligation
- Step 3: You choose a plan and sign the contract online (electronic signature)
- Step 4: You will receive the policy by email within 24 hours — ready to use and submit documents
💬 Want to know the exact price for you and your family? Write to WhatsApp, Telegram, or leave a request on the website - and I will contact you!
Frequently asked questions
Is DKV insurance suitable for applying for a residence permit?
Yes. DKV fully complies with the requirements of the Spanish immigration authorities: Full coverage insurance valid throughout Spain, without restrictions or waiting periods.
Is it possible to take out insurance while outside Spain?
Yes. The entire process is done remotely via WhatsApp, Telegram, and email. The policy is valid from the date of activation.
What is carencia and can it be avoided?
Carencia is a waiting period before insurance begins to cover certain services (complex examinations (MRT, CT, etc. - 6 months, childbirth - 8 months, elective surgeries/hospitalization - 8 months). When switching from another insurance company, carencia is usually canceled.
Is it possible to insure the whole family?
Yes. And it's much more profitable. By taking out a family policy, you can get additional discounts depending on the number of people.
Family of 3 = extra −10 %
Family of 4 or more = extra −15 %
Family of 3 = extra −10 %
Family of 4 or more = extra −15 %
What is the difference between copago and sin copago?
Copay — is a small co-payment each time you use a service. It can be 2-3 euros per service.
Sin copago — no co-payments when using. Only your fixed monthly payment.
For a residence permit, they require sin copago.
Sin copago — no co-payments when using. Only your fixed monthly payment.
For a residence permit, they require sin copago.
Can I change the plan if my needs change?
Yes. Changing the plan is possible with the annual renewal of the contract.
How much does insurance cost for pregnant women?
Pregnancy is covered by a standard medical policy, but with a carencia of 8 months. If you are already pregnant at the time of taking out the policy, you will need to make a one-time payment so that the insurance company cancels these waiting periods and covers the existing pregnancy and childbirth.