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Travel insurance for Spain

What we know about insurance rules for visitors to Spain, how sure we are, and where to confirm it before you travel.

Region:
Europe
Capital:
Madrid
Currency:
EUR
Reviewed:

Is travel insurance required?

Schengen Area member Required for the visa

Applicants who need a short-stay Schengen visa must hold at least €30,000 of medical cover valid across all member states. Visa-exempt visitors are not caught by this visa rule. Read the Schengen guide.

Healthcare and insurance in Spain

Spain has good hospitals, but one detail catches holidaymakers out. The UK government says you're more likely to receive appropriate hospital care in public facilities, yet some tourist areas may not have any nearby. Some hotels may also call private doctors or ambulances that take patients to private hospitals, where a GHIC or EHIC won't be accepted.

So if you're ill at a resort, ask where you're being taken and who's paying before you agree, if you're able to. Call your assistance company early, because it can tell you what's available locally.

In an emergency, dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.

Border checks and the Schengen rule

If you need a Schengen visa, you must hold at least €30,000 of medical cover. UK government advice adds that British visitors, who don't need a visa for short stays, may be asked for proof of travel insurance at the border, along with proof of accommodation. Keep a certificate of insurance with your passport. Rules for other nationalities can differ, so check yours.

Staying with friends or family? The same advice mentions an invitation letter or proof of address as possible evidence of where you're staying.

What to check for a Spain trip

  • Scooters and quad bikes. Popular on the islands and on the coast, but often excluded unless the wording says otherwise and you hold the right license.
  • Alcohol. Claims linked to drinking may be limited, which matters for a nightlife holiday.
  • Water sports. Jet skis and diving may need extra cover.
  • Heat and hiking. Altitude sickness is listed as a risk in parts of Spain, so check limits if you're heading to high ground.
  • Medicines. The UK advice notes that the rules on some medicines can differ, so bring what you need in its original packaging.

UK visitors should carry a GHIC or EHIC as well as insurance. The government says neither replaces travel insurance, particularly for medical repatriation.

Sources

Some details above come from UK government advice, which is written for British nationals. Visa, border and healthcare rules can differ for your nationality, so check with your own government as well.

Cover you might already have

  • UK residents: a GHIC or EHIC gives access to state healthcare in EU countries on the same terms as residents. It isn't a replacement for insurance. See the UK guide.

Check official travel advice

Government advice covers entry rules, safety and health. Traveling against official advice can also affect your insurance.

Before you buy a policy for this trip

  1. Confirm that Spain and any stopovers fall within the policy's territory.
  2. Check that medical and evacuation limits suit how far you'd be from good hospitals and from home.
  3. Compare your planned activities against the exclusions, including scooters and adventure sports.
  4. Declare your health conditions accurately.
  5. Carry a certificate of insurance. See how to read one.

Have an official source for Spain? Send it to us and we'll check it. This page is general information, not legal or insurance advice.