When you decide to study in Spain as a foreign student, one of the most important aspects to consider is health insurance. At Students Insurance we are specialists in offering health insurance for foreign students through ASISA, the leading company in the Spanish market. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions to help you better understand what you need and how to be protected during your stay in Spain.
1. Is it compulsory to have health insurance to study in Spain?
Yes, health insurance is compulsory for foreign students who plan to reside in Spain during their studies. Health insurance is one of the requirements that must be presented when applying for a student visa, and it must cover the student’s entire stay in the country.
2. What kind of health insurance do I need as a foreign student?
It depends on your country of origin:
Health insurance for EU students
If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), you can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). However, this only covers public health services and does not include aspects such as repatriation or additional cover. It is therefore advisable to take out private health insurance, such as those offered by ASISA, to ensure that you are covered for any unforeseen eventuality.
Health insurance for non-EU students
If you are coming from a country outside the EU/EEA, you need private health insurance to cover your entire stay in Spain. The insurance we offer through ASISA covers all the necessary requirements for your visa, including full medical assistance, emergencies and repatriation.
3. What coverage should a health insurance for foreign students include?
It is advisable that the insurance should include as many covers as possible, although the most essential ones are:
- Complete medical assistance: Covers general and specialised medical consultations.
- Emergencies: Assistance in cases of medical emergencies, both in hospitals and health centres.
- Hospitalisation: Coverage in case a hospital stay is necessary.
- Repatriation: Cost of return to the country of origin for medical reasons or in case of death.
- Medicines: Some policies include coverage for prescription drugs.
At Students Insurance we offer you a complete health insurance for foreign students with all the coverage you may need, such as complete health care, medical specialities and diagnostic tests, hospitalisation, transplants, Dental Plus guarantee, repatriation, travel assistance and death insurance.
4. Can I access the public health system in Spain?
If you are an EU/EEA student with a European Health Insurance Card, you will have access to public health services in Spain. However, for non-EU/EEA students, access to the public health system is limited, and you will be largely dependent on your private insurance. If you have insurance with Students Insurance, you will be covered for medical care in the private system with access to a wide network of private hospitals, clinics and specialists without relying on the waiting lists of the public system, which ensures faster and more convenient care.
5. How much does health insurance for foreign students cost?
The price of student health insurance can vary depending on several factors such as the length of coverage, the coverages included, and the insurance company. In general, student health insurance is usually cheaper than standard health insurance. Prices range from 300 to 700 euros per year, although it is advisable to compare different offers before making a decision. At Students Insurance, we offer affordable ASISA plans designed specifically for students, with competitive prices starting at around 35.90 euros per month. Our aim is to provide you with comprehensive cover at an affordable price, so you can focus on your studies without worry.
6. Where can I take out a suitable student health insurance policy?
There are several insurance companies that offer specific products for foreign students in Spain. One of these options is ASISA, a leading company in the sector. You can take out your student insurance with ASISA through Students Insurance quickly and easily. You can complete the whole process online via our website, where you just need to provide some basic information about your stay and the type of cover you require. Once taken out, you will receive all the necessary documentation to present at the consulate or embassy during the visa process.
7. What are the benefits of taking out private health insurance?
Private health insurance gives you greater flexibility and quick access to medical services, often without waiting lists. In addition, you can choose doctors and specialists from a wide private network and receive care in your language or with translators, which can be a relief when you are not fluent in Spanish.
8. What should I do if I have to use my health insurance in Spain?
If you have private insurance, the first thing you should do is contact your insurer through the customer service numbers they have given you. They will tell you which medical centres you can go to. If it is a medical emergency, some insurances allow you to go directly to the hospital, although you should inform your insurer as soon as possible so that they can arrange payment.
9. What happens if I don’t have health insurance?
If you do not have valid health insurance, you will not be able to complete the visa process or obtain your TIE (in the case of long stays). In addition, facing unexpected medical expenses without insurance can be very costly, as medical services in Spain can be expensive, especially if hospitalisation or specialised treatment is required.
10. Can I renew my health insurance if I extend my stay in Spain?
Yes, most insurers allow you to renew your health insurance policy if you decide to extend your stay in Spain to continue your studies or if you enrol in a new academic programme. It is important to make sure that the cover remains in force for the entire period you are in the country. If you have your insurance with Students Insurante you can renew your health insurance easily and flexibly if you decide to extend your stay to continue your studies. All you need to do is contact us before your current policy expires, and we will help you arrange the renewal.
Health insurance for foreign students in Spain: necessary, useful and essential
Good health insurance is essential for foreign students in Spain. Not only is it a legal requirement, but it also provides peace of mind in case of any unforeseen medical issues. Make sure you research the options available and choose an insurance policy that suits your needs and budget so you can enjoy your stay in Spain without any worries. At Students Insurance, we work with ASISA to offer you comprehensive, affordable health insurance tailored to your needs as a foreign student in Spain. Health is the most important thing, and with the right cover, you will be able to enjoy your academic experience in Spain with total peace of mind. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information and to ensure your wellbeing during your stay!