Sanitas vs Adeslas: Which Is Better for Expats?

Last updated: 23 May 2026

Sanitas and Adeslas are two of the largest private health insurers in Spain, and both are commonly considered by expats and visa applicants. There is no single "better" insurer: the right choice depends on where you live in Spain, your age, how you expect to use the cover, and whether you need a policy that meets visa requirements. This guide compares the two evenhandedly across the factors that tend to matter, without declaring an overall winner. For a structured side-by-side, see our dedicated Sanitas vs Adeslas page and the broader compare health insurance guide.

What to compare

Rather than asking which insurer is "best", it is more useful to compare like-for-like on the points below. Both companies offer multiple plans with different prices and benefits, so a fair comparison means matching plan level, region and ages.

Network and location

Both Sanitas and Adeslas maintain large networks across Spain, but coverage density differs by area — one may have more listed clinics near you than the other. The make-up of the network can also vary: in some towns an insurer partners mainly with independent clinics, in others with larger private hospitals. For expats, two practical questions tend to decide it — is there a convenient clinic or hospital within reach, and can you see a doctor in English without long waits? Neither insurer is consistently ahead on both points everywhere, which is why a check for your specific town is more reliable than any general claim. If access to specific hospitals or English-speaking doctors matters, check each insurer's cuadro médico for your town before deciding, and see our notes on private hospitals in Spain and English-speaking doctors. If you have prior conditions, also review how each insurer treats pre-existing conditions, as acceptance and terms vary.

Visa suitability

For most long-stay Spanish visas, what matters is not the brand but whether the plan is sin copago with full annual cover and a compliant certificate. Both insurers can typically provide policies structured for this, but requirements vary by consulate and can change, so always confirm the current rule with the relevant authority. See visa health insurance requirements and the certificate guide.

So which is better?

Neither wins outright. For some people in some regions and age bands, Sanitas may work out cheaper or have a more convenient network; for others, Adeslas may. The most reliable way to decide is to get a like-for-like quote for your own situation and compare network, co-payment, waiting periods and price together. Premiums are age-based and figures are indicative only; cover is subject to insurer acceptance and policy terms. You can request a quote to see indicative options side by side.