When buying private health insurance in Spain, you'll likely come across the term "carencia" (waiting period). But what exactly does it mean, and how does it affect you?
Simply put: Carencia is a waiting period that applies to certain services in new policies during the first year of coverage. During this time, specific treatments or procedures are not yet covered.
Why do Insurance companies use carencias?
The main reason is to prevent situations where people buy insurance only when they already know they need expensive treatment. Waiting periods help insurance companies manage risk and keep premiums affordable for everyone.
For example, using the popular DKV Integral policies, waiting periods apply to the following services:
DKV Integral

• Hospitalization and surgery (including prothesis): 6-8 months
• High-tech diagnostics (CT, MRI, etc.): 6 months
• Childbirth (natural or C-section), except in cases of premature birth: 8 months
• Biomechanical gait analysis: 6 months
• Proton therapy for pediatric cancer treatment: 8 months
• Transplants: 12 months

How does it work? A real example
A policy was issued on 01.09.2022. On 10.09.2022, the client consulted a traumatologist regarding neck pain. The doctor prescribed an MRI. According to the insurance contract, there is a 6-month waiting period for MRIs. This means the scan cannot be covered by insurance before 01.03.2023. If necessary, the study can be performed privately at the client's own expense.
FAQs
What if...? Will private insurance cover me in an emergency?
Clients often ask, "What happens if something serious happens to me?" When it is a matter of life and death (vital urgency), the insurance company waives the waiting period. In practice, it works like this: in the event of an acute condition, you go to the ER (via ambulance or by arriving yourself). The doctor assesses your condition, performs diagnostics, and provides a report. The clinic administration then sends this report to the insurance company to authorize coverage. Waiting periods only apply to new policies during the first year. When you renew your contract for the second year and beyond, there are no longer any waiting periods.
Can I get a policy without waiting periods?
Yes, it is possible. If you are an expat in Spain, you can sign up for a special type of policy designed specifically for long-term visa or residency applications (such as the NLV or Digital Nomad Visa). In these policies, waiting periods (carencia) are waived for all services, with the sole exception of pregnancy and childbirth.
Do carencias reset if I renew my policy?
No! Once you've completed the initial waiting periods and renew with the same company, you won't face them again. This is one reason why maintaining continuous coverage is beneficial.
Can the company set additional waiting periods?
Yes. After reviewing your health declaration, the insurance company may impose an individual waiting period for specific treatments or pre-existing conditions. You will be notified of this before the contract is signed, allowing you to make a final decision regarding the coverage before committing.
Switching companies and special conditions
If you are already insured with another company in Spain and wish to switch to DKV, you can often transfer your "seniority" to waive waiting periods for all services except childbirth. Important: If you decide not to renew your policy at some point, but change your mind later and sign up for a new one, you will have to go through the waiting periods all over new. Insurance seniority can only be preserved if certain conditions are met. Contact me, and we will review your case together.
Need help choosing the right policy?
Understanding carencias and choosing the right health insurance can be complex. I'm here to help you find the perfect coverage for your needs and budget. Contact me for a free, personalized consultation.