Healthcare
Before leaving for Spain, you should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This is the equivalent of the old E111 form and is available free of charge from most UK post offices.
If staying for holidays or short periods, the EHIC entitles you to free emergency medical treatment. Staying period is considered when shorter than 90 days. If you don’t have the card with you when receiving emergency care, you should pay for the treatment and request a refund upon return to the UK.
Should you plan on staying in Spain long-term it is necessary to declare residence in Spain. As a resident you will receive a medical card as Spanish people do, which entitles you to receive all the same services.
Retired citizens can apply for a medical card using the UK E-121 form, and their residence card. Non-retired citizens should fill in form E-106, which is valid for up to two years. Until they have a residence card, they should purchase private insurance for health care. After two years, they should apply for residency.
Residents in Spain that have no right to social security protection in the UK should contact the Overseas Division for Medical Benefits to discuss the options available to them.
