Do you need health insurance in Spain as an international student?
Published on · 2 min read
If you’re coming to study in Spain, you will need health insurance. For international students, it is a visa requirement and the best way to avoid unexpected medical costs. With Uniwords, you can arrange your health insurance in minutes, with full coverage tailored to your needs.
If you’re planning to study in Spain, one of the first questions that comes up is: do I really need to take out health insurance? The answer is: yes, in most cases. And one of the most popular options among international students is Sanitas, a leading health insurance provider in Spain.
Is health insurance mandatory in Spain?
It depends on your nationality and how long you plan to stay:
EU students: can use the European Health Insurance Card, although it does not always cover all medical costs or specialist treatments.
Non-EU students: a private health insurance policy is required for a student visa, covering hospital care, emergencies and repatriation.
Long stays: even if it’s not mandatory, having insurance protects you from high medical bills in case of illness or accidents.
Health insurance: designed for international students
At Uniwords, we offer one of the most complete insurance options, in partnership with Sanitas, one of the most established insurers in Spain, with plans specially designed for international students. Some of the benefits include:
Access to a network of over 40,000 doctors and hospitals across the country
English-speaking support and 24/7 digital assistance: video consultations, online prescriptions and medical chat
Full coverage with no co-payments (ideal if you want no surprise bills)
In addition, to streamline contracting, support and after-sales service, in Spain we work with Recoletos Broker, a professional team specialised in insurance and investment advice that ensures a fast and reliable process throughout.
What happens if I don’t get insurance?
If you decide to come without insurance (and you are not an EU citizen), your visa is very likely to be refused. Even if you have the European Health Insurance Card, many students find that coverage is limited and does not include certain emergencies or repatriation.
Sanitas health insurance not only meets legal requirements, but also gives you peace of mind in case of unexpected situations.
Conclusion: do you need it?
Yes, especially if you are coming with a visa. And among all available options, Uniwords insurance stands out for its reliability, international coverage and student-friendly support. It is an extra cost, but also an investment in your safety and health.
With Uniwords, you can sort it out easily by registering your profile, selecting “Health”, and within minutes your insurance is ready to present at the embassy. You can also read experiences from other students who have already signed up.
Don’t leave it until the last minute: secure your stay in Spain with Uniwords and Recoletos Broker.