Visa & Residency FAQs
Common questions on health insurance for Spanish visas and residency. Still stuck? Ask us.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need private health insurance for a Spanish visa?
Yes — most residency visas (NLV, DNV, student) require full private cover with no co-payments. See requirements.
Can I use travel insurance for residency in Spain?
Usually no — travel policies have co-pays, limits or exclusions that consulates often reject. A dedicated visa health policy is the safer route.
Can I use an EHIC or GHIC for a Spanish visa?
No — those are for temporary visits, not residency. See EHIC/GHIC in Spain.
How long must the policy last for a visa?
Most consulates require a full year of cover, though requirements vary by consulate and can change. Always confirm current rules with the relevant authority.
Can I cancel my insurance after the visa is approved?
You generally must keep compliant cover for residency and renewals; cancelling can affect your status. See residency cover.
Can the convenio especial be used for a visa?
Generally not for a first application — see convenio especial.
What is no-copayment health insurance and why do visas need it?
It means the insurer pays in full with no per-visit charge to you, which most consulates require for residency visas. See no-copayment cover.
Which visa needs what kind of cover?
Requirements differ by visa — compare the non-lucrative, digital nomad and student visa pages.
Does my visa policy need to be from a Spanish insurer?
Most consulates require cover from an insurer authorised to operate in Spain. The insurers we work with are authorised in Spain — see requirements.
Do I need a certificate proving my cover for the visa?
Yes — consulates usually want a signed certificate confirming the policy meets the rules. See visa certificate.
Can my whole family be on one visa policy?
Family members applying together usually each need compliant cover; a single policy can often include dependants. See family cover.
Do EU citizens need private insurance to register residency?
Many EU citizens registering residency must show either an S1, employment cover or private insurance. See EU residency cover.
Can I switch insurers and keep my residency valid?
You can usually switch as long as you maintain continuous compliant cover with no gap. See renewals FAQs.
Does retirement (NLV) cover differ from worker visas?
The cover rules are broadly similar, but retirees often weigh pre-existing conditions and age — see cover for retirees.
What if my visa is refused — do I lose the premium?
Policies vary; some allow cancellation or refunds if a visa is refused. Check the terms before you buy and ask us about options.