Your health insurance policy must be "sin copagos, sin carencias"—meaning no co-payments, no waiting periods. This ensures you have comprehensive protection from day one.

1. NO CO-PAYMENTS (SIN COPAGOS)
The first crucial requirement is that the policy must have no co-payments. This means you do not have to pay a small fee for each doctor's visit, test, or procedure. The consulate needs assurance that you can access medical care whenever needed without any financial barriers. A "sin copagos" policy demonstrates that your coverage is complete and won't be limited by your ability to pay for services at the time of use.
2. FULL COVERAGE (COBERTURA COMPLETA)
Your health insurance must provide coverage equivalent to the Spanish public healthcare system. This includes primary care, specialists, hospitalization, surgery, and emergency services. The policy must be fully operational from the moment you arrive in Spain, which is why there can be no waiting periods ("sin carencias"). This guarantees that you are protected for all medical needs, from routine check-ups to major emergencies, immediately upon activating your residency.
3. REPATRIATION COVERAGE (CON REPATRIACIÓN)
For some types of visa and/or Embassy´s you may need to get repatriation coverage. This is an additional policy can be added to the health insurance.
The DKV Visado Policy: Your Visa Solution
DKV offers a specialized policy, the DKV Visado, designed specifically to meet and exceed all these visa requirements. This policy is tailor-made for expats and guarantees acceptance by Spanish consulates.

• No Co-payments: Fully compliant with the "sin copagos" rule.
• No Waiting Periods: All services are available from day one (except childbirth).
• Full Medical and Hospital Coverage: Comprehensive care mirroring the public system.
• Dental Coverage: Includes basic dental services.
• Travel Assistance: Up to €20,000 in coverage for medical emergencies when traveling abroad.

Can I use a policy from my home country or another European provider?
While some non-Spanish policies may claim to offer sufficient coverage, they are often rejected by consulates. This is because consular staff are familiar with the specific terms and conditions of Spanish insurance policies like DKV's and can quickly verify their compliance. Submitting a policy they don't recognize creates ambiguity and increases the risk of rejection. To ensure a smooth and successful visa application, it is always recommended to use a compliant policy from a recognized Spanish insurer.
Conclusion: Secure Your Visa with the Right Insurance
Navigating the visa process can be complex, but securing the right health insurance doesn't have to be. By choosing a policy specifically designed for the Spanish visa, you eliminate one of the biggest hurdles and ensure you meet all the requirements. It provides not only the necessary documentation for your application but also complete peace of mind for your new life in Spain.