DE 
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ES Are you planning to spend the winter in the Canary or Balearic Islands? Then you should clarify in advance how you will be cared for in case of illness. But how does medical care really work for long-term vacationers in Spain – and what do you need to be aware of?
EHIC: Basic coverage for tourists from the EU
Spain has a very well-developed public healthcare system – one of the best in Europe. As a tourist from an EU or EEA country or Switzerland, you can receive medically necessary services via the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) – for example, in the case of acute illnesses, chronic conditions, accidents, or necessary pregnancy checkups.
The EHIC is valid exclusively within the public healthcare system and must be applied for at your health insurance provider before departure. It is usually found on the back of your regular health insurance card.
What does the EHIC cover in Spain?
The EHIC ensures access to medically necessary treatments during a temporary stay.
This includes acute illnesses, accidents, or chronic conditions, provided that treatment cannot wait until returning to your home country. Also covered are necessary pregnancy checkups, dialysis treatments, and the provision of prescription medications.
The services provided correspond to those available to all people insured under Spain’s public health system – free of charge or with a co-payment.
Long-term stay: Registration as a “Desplazado” for better access
If you are staying in Spain for a longer period, e.g., spending the winter in the Canary or Balearic Islands, you can register as a so-called “Desplazado” (temporarily residing). This allows you to access a local health center (Centro de Salud) and general practitioner services.
Required documents for desplazado registration:
EHIC (European Health Insurance Card)
Passport or ID card Proof of residence (e.g., rental agreement, hotel confirmation, registration certificate)
If applicable, S1 form (for pensioners receiving benefits from abroad)
In some regions: temporary NIE number (helpful but not always required) The registration serves for administrative assignment but does not replace the EHIC. It is especially useful for long-term vacationers who stay in Spain for several months.
Who is entitled to public healthcare in Spain?
Not only tourists but also residents in Spain are insured under the state healthcare system – provided certain conditions are met:
Registered residents who pay into the social security system (e.g., employees, self-employed persons)
Pensioners receiving a Spanish or foreign EU pension (with S1 form)
Family members of insured persons (spouse, children)
People without income who gain access through the state basic system (convenio especial or social welfare)
Accommodation on the Canary and Balearic Islands
How to get the Tarjeta Sanitaria (Health Card)
Long-term vacationers who stay in Spain for an extended period or register their residence there need the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual for full access to healthcare. The card is issued free of charge.
Required documents for the application:
Completed application form (varies by region)
NIE number (Foreigner Identification Number)
Proof of residence (Empadronamiento)
Social Security number (Seguridad Social)
Identity document (passport or ID card)
After issuance, you will be assigned a general practitioner (médico de cabecera). With this card, you can also use electronic prescriptions.
How does a doctor visit in Spain work?
Appointments: can be made directly at the health center, by phone, or online (depending on the region)
General practitioner: provides initial diagnosis and refers you to a specialist if needed
Prescriptions: stored electronically and redeemed at pharmacies with the health card
Waiting times: common for specialist appointments or diagnostic procedures like MRI
Emergencies: go directly to the emergency room (Urgencias) of public hospitals – even without a health card
What services are covered – and what aren’t?
Covered:
General and specialist care
Hospital stays
Vaccinations
Pregnancy and childbirth
Emergencies
Not covered:
Dental treatment and dentures
Glasses
Cosmetic surgery
Rehabilitation programs
Alternative therapies (e.g., osteopathy, homeopathy)
Many people combine the public system with an affordable private supplementary insurance – ideal for reducing waiting times and covering additional services.
Frequently asked questions about medical care in Spain
Can I see a doctor without a Tarjeta Sanitaria?
Yes, but only in emergencies via public emergency rooms. For regular treatments, the card is necessary.
Can I choose my doctor freely?
You will be assigned a general practitioner. A change is possible upon request – for example, in case of a move or dissatisfaction.
How do I find my responsible health center?
Either through the website of the regional health service or at the local town hall (Ayuntamiento).
Tip: A private international health insurance policy complements your coverage perfectly – especially for longer stays or pre-existing conditions.
Medical assistance in emergencies in Spain
European emergency number: 112 (free of charge, also from mobile networks)
Medical on-call service: via the local Centro de Salud or hospital emergency rooms (Urgencias)
Pharmacies: recognizable by the green cross; information about emergency services is usually posted at the entrance
Our advice & special rates for long-term vacationers and winter visitors in the Canary and Balearic Islands
Finding the right accommodation for your long-term stay is often not easy – we support you personally and hassle-free!
Our benefits for you:
Personal consultation – we’ll find the right home for your stay Special rates for long-term stays – exclusive discounts directly from the landlord Individual support – whether you're looking for a quiet location, sea view, or special amenities
Are you planning a longer stay in the Canary or Balearic Islands?
Then contact us now – we’ll find your dream accommodation!
Email:
Phone: +34 675 400 700
