Many Spanish residents are unaware they are not automatically covered for all healthcare costs when travelling within the European Union, despite being eligible for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), known in Spain as the Tarjeta Sanitaria Europea (TSE). Whereas the TSE ensures access to medically necessary, state-provided healthcare during temporary stays in EU countries, it does not cover private healthcare, repatriation, or even co-payments in some member states.
The European Union website explicitly states that travel insurance is not mandatory for EU citizens travelling within the bloc, but strongly recommends it. “The EHIC will not cover private medical healthcare or costs such as mountain rescue in ski resorts, lost or stolen property or repatriation. If you would like to be covered for such risks, you may want to take out travel insurance in addition to your EHIC,” the EU website confirms.
Spain joined the European Economic Community – now the European Union – on January 1, 1986, following the signing of the Accession Treaty in Madrid on June 12, 1985. This integration followed a period of international isolation dating back to the Potsdam Declaration of 1945 and helped stabilize the country’s nascent democracy, according to historical records.
The limitations of the EHIC extend beyond medical expenses. It offers no protection against cancellations, theft, lost luggage, or travel delays. For non-EU nationals residing in Spain, the situation is further complicated. The EU website clarifies that EHIC coverage does not extend to Denmark, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland for non-EU citizens, necessitating comprehensive travel insurance that includes health coverage for travel to those nations.
The requirement for travel insurance differs for those visiting the EU. Individuals applying for a Schengen Visa are legally required to have a policy with a minimum coverage of €30,000. Those entering the EU visa-free under the ETIAS system are advised that while insurance isn’t mandatory, it is “recommended as it can provide great benefits and protection.” EU citizens are as well advised that private insurance plans can offer more extensive coverage.
Spanish residents seeking travel insurance must obtain a policy specifically designed for residents of Spain. Standard policies from companies based outside of Spain, such as those commonly used in the UK or the US, may not be valid. Several companies, including Heymondo, IATI, InterMundial, Chapka, MAPFRE, and AXA, offer suitable coverage. The cost of this insurance typically ranges from €1.50 to €5 per day for travel within most of the EU, depending on the level of coverage and destination.
As of 2025, Spain has a population of 49,077,984 and accounts for 8.7% of the EU’s total GDP, with a GDP per capita of €34,500, below the EU average of €38,100. Spain currently has 61 representatives in the European Parliament and is a member of the Schengen area since March 26, 1995.
