5 Things to Know About Health Insurance for the Non Lucrative Visa in Spain

If you’re planning a move to Spain without working, the non-lucrative visa (NLV) is your path to Spanish residency. One of the most important parts of your application is proving you have appropriate health insurance for the non-lucrative visa in Spain. Unlike tourist travel insurance, this isn’t optional–private health coverage is a legal requirement. It shows the Spanish authorities that you won’t be a burden on the public healthcare system while living in the country without working income.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through 5 essential things you need to know about health insurance for the Spain non-lucrative visa. Whether you’re a retiree, investor, or someone ready to start a new life abroad, understanding these details will help you prepare a stronger, more confident application. Let’s get started.

1. Private health insurance is mandatory for the Spain non-lucrative visa

When applying for the Spanish non-lucrative visa, you must show proof of private health insurance that complies with strict requirements. That’s because as a non-working resident, you don’t immediately qualify for Spain’s public healthcare system (Seguridad Social).

Your health insurance policy must:

• Be issued by a Spanish-authorised insurer (or a company licensed to operate in Spain). Caser Expat Insurance is a top insurance company in Spain, specializing in coverage for expats. 
• Provide comprehensive medical coverage — including primary care, specialists, hospitalization, and emergencies.
• Have no copayments (sin copago) — meaning the insurer pays 100% of covered costs without you paying extra per visit.
• Be valid for at least 12 months, matching your initial visa duration.
• Be backed by a certificate or policy wording acceptable to your Spanish consulate or embassy.

Travel insurance or basic international plans do not meet visa-compliant criteria, even if they provide broad healthcare coverage.

2. "No Copay" policies offer additional benefits

One of the biggest stumbling blocks for applicants is misunderstanding the copay issue. Copays are small fees you pay each time you visit a doctor or specialist under a traditional insurance plan. Unfortunately, many insurers offer cheaper plans with copays, but these are often not accepted for visa applications.

No Copay (“sin copago”) policies mean you pay a fixed annual or monthly premium, and you do not pay anything out of pocket for covered services. 

Visa authorities look for this no-copay structure because it demonstrates full coverage and financial responsibility–which reassures them that you won’t need public assistance.

A no copay health plan offers clear advantages for applicants seeking health insurance for the non-lucrative visa in Spain, especially when compared to copay-based plans. Key advantages for expats with this type of policy include:

• Reduced risk of visa rejection: No copay plans align closely with consulate requirements, so you’re more likely to have your application approved on the first go. This saves you time, money, and endless headaches. 
• Predictable costs: You’ll pay a single monthly or annual premium, so you can budget healthcare expenses upfront. No surprise bills or treatments.
• Excellent coverage: The coverage is equivalent to Spanish public healthcare (a key immigration requirement), which is ranked among the best in the world.  
• Peace of mind: You’ll have access to care from day one, and you won’t have to worry about which services are included or not. Nearly everything should be covered under your plan. 

3. Visa-compliant health insurance won't cost as much as you expect

The cost of health insurance for the non-lucrative visa in Spain varies based on age, personal health, level of benefits, and the number of people requiring insurance. Typical monthly premiums (as of 2026) can range roughly from:

• €38–€60 for younger adults
• €50–€90 for most applicants
• €90–€140+ for older applicants (50+), however, check possible insurance age exclusions.
• Higher in some cases depending on medical history or added extras.

Consulates sometimes require proof of 12-month payment upfront, so be prepared to pay your policy in one annual instalment rather than monthly billing.

4. What comprehensive coverage really means

Not all health insurance is created equal–and for the non-lucrative visa, your policy needs to be comprehensive. When evaluating plans, make sure you check that they include:

• General practice and specialist visits
• Diagnostic tests (blood work, scans, etc.)
• Hospitalization and surgeries
• Emergency care
• Coverage throughout all of Spain
  Clearly stated validity for your visa period

Avoid plans with waiting periods (carencias) or limitations, as consulates typically expect coverage that is fully effective from day one.

5. Caser has an insurance policy specifically for visa and residency

One well-known provider in Spain is Caser Expat Insurance, which offers policies specifically designed for expats, including those applying for residency visas.

Caser offers a health insurance solution designed specifically for foreign nationals applying for a visa or residency permit in Spain, including the non-lucrative visa. Our Adapta for residency permit is structured to meet Spanish immigration requirements while providing comprehensive private healthcare coverage for long-term stays.

The Caser Adapta policy is tailored for visa and residency applications and typically includes:

• Full private medical coverage in Spain, comparable to the public healthcare system
• No copay options, meeting the “sin copago” requirement often requested by consulates
• Coverage valid for the entire residency period, including the first 12 months required for visa approval
• Access to Caser’s extensive medical network, with doctors, specialists, and hospitals throughout Spain
• Hospitalization, emergency care, diagnostics, and specialist visits included

This makes Caser Adapta a strong option for applicants who need health insurance for the non-lucrative visa in Spain that is both compliant and easy to document.

Because it is specifically intended for visa and residency purposes, Caser Adapta reduces the risk of application delays or rejections related to health insurance issues.

More Key Benefits of Caser Expat Insurance

• Coverage tailored to foreigners living in Spain: Caser’s policies are structured to meet the needs of expatriates who need long-term, comprehensive health coverage.
• Extensive network: You’ll have access to thousands of doctors, clinics, and hospitals across Spain.
• Broad medical specialties: Caser’s plans include coverage for a wide range of treatments, from basic care to advanced specialties.
• Extras in some plans: Some options include dental coverage alongside medical benefits.
• Multi-language support: It’s okay if you don’t speak Spanish, Caser offers support and services in different languages, such as English, German, Dutch, etc. 

Extra Tips for Health Insurance for the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa

As with any new undertaking, there are risks, pitfalls, and unexpected turns. To make the visa application process smoother:

• Purchase your insurance before your visa interview or appointment as consulates expect proof at that stage.
• Ensure documentation is in Spanish (or English with a suitable certificate) detailing coverage details.
• Check for restrictions on pre-existing conditions, especially if you have chronic health issues.
• Don’t rely on travel insurance or public health plans alone as these are insufficient for visa compliance.
• Work with a trusted Spain provider like Caser Expat Insurance to save time and reduce the risk of unexpected rejection due to insurance problems.

Navigating health insurance for the non-lucrative visa in Spain is one of the most critical steps in your application process. From understanding the strict “no copay” rule and selecting comprehensive coverage, to choosing a reputable Spanish insurer, these decisions can make or break your Spanish residency plans. Taking the time to secure the right policy not only helps satisfy immigration law–it also gives you real peace of mind as you begin your exciting Spanish journey.