Do I need medical insurance to travel to Spain?
Asked by: Billie Ritchie DVM | Last update: November 12, 2025Score: 4.3/5 (65 votes)
Do I really need travel insurance for Spain?
No matter where you're heading in Spain, it's important that you get travel insurance to help protect you against risks you may encounter. We offer different levels of cover, so you can choose an insurance type to suit your needs.
Is healthcare free in Spain for American tourists?
Foreigners who come from a non-EU country do not get free healthcare in Spain. Payments may have to be done out-of-pocket – or else, you can opt for a travel insurance plan so that you will be covered during your travels.
Do I need health insurance in Spain?
Spain has universal healthcare, which guarantees all citizens and residents access to healthcare services. The healthcare system is called the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS) which simply means 'National Health System'.
Do I need a medical certificate to travel to Spain?
Spain – Medical certificate of good health for visa
To obtain a visa for a non-lucrative or student visit to Spain of more than 90 days (in a 180-day period) up to 1 year, you will be required to submit a medical certificate of good health (IHR 2005) as part of the application documentation.
What Health Insurance do I need for moving to Spain?
Do I need medical insurance to travel to Spain from USA?
Travel Insurance for Spain
Currently it is not required to have travel insurance to visit Spain. However, given that many U.S. health insurance plans may not cover you when traveling internationally, having a travel insurance plan with medical expense coverage is always a good idea.
Can I fly without a medical certificate?
You need a medical certificate before flying solo in an airplane, helicopter, gyroplane, or airship. We suggest you get your medical certificate before beginning flight training. This will alert you to any condition that would prevent you from becoming a pilot before you pay for lessons.
Do I need health insurance if I travel abroad?
Get travel insurance.
Travelers are usually responsible for paying hospital and other medical expenses out of pocket at most destinations. Make sure you have a plan to get care overseas, in case you need it.
What happens if I get ill in Spain?
If you need hospital treatment in Spain, you're more likely to receive appropriate care in public healthcare facilities. However, in some tourist areas there may not be any public healthcare facilities nearby. Your insurance or medical assistance company will be able to provide further details.
What are the rules for visiting Spain?
- Enter via an authorized border-crossing point.
- Present proof of identity and a valid travel document.
- Present the corresponding visa if required, according to nationality.
- Provide evidence of meeting the conditions for the proposed stay and of possessing sufficient financial resources.
What happens if I need to go to the hospital in Spain?
Medical treatment at a public hospital is free for anyone with a Spanish health card or EHIC. However, you might be required to pay for optional vaccines and (parts of) prescription medication.
How much does it cost to see a doctor in Spain as a tourist?
Without state or private cover, you can expect to pay approx: 80€ to have a blood test. Initial consultation is normally between 40€ & 50€. Average cost of an emergency room visit: is 200€
What if I get sick in Barcelona?
Catalonia provides public healthcare for all. Centro Médico Teknon QuironSalud Quironsalud works with a wide range of insurance companies to provide health-care services. It offers free onsite medical assistance to visitors from abroad who have a medical emergency during their stay in Barcelona.
Is healthcare free in Spain for tourists?
All EU and European Economic Area (EEA) nationals below retirement age who visit Spain for a short holiday are entitled to free or reduced-cost emergency medical healthcare and treatments at all Spanish public medical centres and hospitals on production of a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
What vaccines do I need for Spain?
- COVID-19 – Airborne –
- Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin –
- Rabies – Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
Is insurance mandatory in Spain?
You need to insure all vehicles in Spain to at least third-party liability level. This includes cars, trucks, RVs, motorbikes, and scooters. However, bicycles don't require insurance. Anyone caught driving without insurance by Spanish police can be fined up to €3,000.
What if an American gets sick in Spain?
Special care if you become ill or injured while traveling
Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a list of local healthcare providers and medical facilities. If your illness is serious, consular officers can help you find medical assistance. If you want, they can inform your family and friends.
Can you bring ibuprofen to Spain?
Some common medicines like ibuprofen are only available with a prescription. You may be able to bring a small amount into the country, but be sure it's in the original container so it's easily identifiable by customs agents.
Can tourists get antibiotics in Spain?
Antibiotics in Spain are not available over the counter and pharmacies do not have doctors on site. To buy antibiotics, you'll need to carry a doctor's prescription to a pharmacy.
Will my U.S. health insurance cover me in Europe?
Before you go, consider your insurance options.
U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs overseas. Private U.S. insurance policies also might not cover any or all expenses. Check with your insurance before traveling to see if it provides coverage overseas.
How much does international travel medical insurance cost?
International Travel Medical Insurance Premium Plans
The Atlas Travel Premium® travel medical insurance policy from WorldTrips starts as low as $0.70* per day, or $4.90* for one full week of coverage. The maximum possible premium is $30.71** per day, or $214.97** for a full week of coverage.
Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover internationally?
As a Blue Cross and Blue Shield member, you take your healthcare benefits with you when you are abroad. Through the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core program, you have access to doctors and hospitals around the world.
How much is a flight medical certificate?
Most AMEs charge $150 - $200 for the exam. The actual medical exam must be done by an FAA doctor approved as an AME. Students may search for AMEs in their area at the FAA website.
What medical conditions disqualify you from flying?
- Angina pectoris.
- Bipolar disease.
- Cardiac valve replacement.
- Coronary heart disease that has been treated or, if untreated, that has been symptomatic or clinically significant.
- Diabetes mellitus requiring hypoglycemic medications.
Do airlines require health certificates?
U.S. Airline Pet Policies
Typically, airlines require pet health certificates that are no older than 10 days, even if the receiving country accepts an older one.