Spanish Non Lucrative Visa: When Can We Opt for National Public Healthcare using Convenio Especial?

Last Updated on May 2, 2026 by Bruno Bianchi

Question

In what year can we opt for the national public healthcare in Spain using the Convenio Especial once we get approved on a Spanish Non Lucrative Visa?

Answers

These are the answers of Spainguru’s Facebook group members:

“After 1 year,” says an All-star contributor, indicating a straightforward timeline for eligibility.

A Rising contributor adds, “1 year, but it takes time so still need to be covered,” emphasizing the practical need for interim private health insurance coverage despite eligibility after one year.

Conclusion

The consensus among the Spanish NLV Facebook group members is that individuals can opt into the national public healthcare system in Spain one year after being approved for the Spanish Non Lucrative Visa.

However, it’s noted that the process may require time to fully integrate, suggesting the importance of maintaining alternative health coverage during the initial period post-approval.

The Convenio Especial

The Convenio Especial is a Social Security scheme in Spain designed to broaden access to the Spanish public healthcare system for those who do not automatically qualify. It’s particularly useful for expatriates or residents who haven’t been employed in Spain but wish to secure comprehensive health coverage.

Once eligible—typically after residing in Spain for a year—participants can opt into this program by making monthly social security contributions. For individuals under 65, the monthly fee is €60, and for those over 65, the fee increases to €157.

This scheme covers a broad range of healthcare services provided by the Spanish state healthcare system, including treatment for pre-existing conditions. However, it does not cover general pharmaceutical prescriptions, ortho-prosthetics, dietary prescriptions, and non-urgent medical transport, which might require additional private insurance or out-of-pocket expenses.

To apply, applicants must submit a series of documents, including an application form specific to their autonomous region, passport, NIE or residency certificate, padrón certificate, and proof of non-entitlement to healthcare from another country, ensuring comprehensive coverage to those who need it most within Spain’s healthcare system.

Bruno Bianchi CEO & Spain Immigration Expert

Bruno Bianchi is the founder and CEO of Spainguru, Spain's largest expat immigration community with 150,000+ members. Since 2014 he has helped thousands of people relocate to Spain through expert guides, webinars and vetted professional services covering visas, residency, taxes and life in Spain.

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