Question
My wife and I are contemplating a move out to Spain. We are financially sound so would meet all the Spain non lucrative visa monetary requirements. The biggest hurdle we have to cross is my health.
I have a heart condition that is controlled through medication. One of the pills I take is quite expensive. Any advice on health care with an ongoing health issue and how to obtain medication would be greatly appreciated. We are both aged 63.
Answers
These are the answers of Spainguru’s Spanish Non Lucrative Visa group members:
“I would call a pharmacy in Spain and ask for the price of medication. Most insurance policies will exclude preexisting conditions, and not all cover prescriptions either. But we have found that medication here is pennies on the dollar. My mom just purchased inhalers here for 4 euro each that cost her $185 each in the US.”
“Most policies in Spain do not cover prescriptions but they are quite cheap compared to crazed pricing in the States for medication.”
“Are you or your wife claiming UK state pensions. If so you can get your S1 and once in Spain and you have TIE you can get equivalent healthcare here.”
“Talk to a health insurance broker. You would need full coverage insurance with no exclusions.”
“Some very expensive drugs are still expensive in Spain. Not nearly as expensive, but still cost prohibitive without insurance coverage. A friend has an Rx in the US that is $7K/MONTH without insurance ($50 with insurance) it’s 1500 in Spain.”
“Depends on the medication. My husband is on a blood thinner that needs prescribing by a hospital consultant. Until then we are paying €80 a month over the counter. We had to buy some others too before we got into the Spanish Health system but they were only a couple of euros. So try and check with a pharmacy in Spain so you know.”
“Since you need health coverage to get residency, you need one that will cover your pre existing medical condition and should be a part of your financial planning, as getting treatment and medication affects whether you can move or not.
So first step is finding insurance coverage that would cover your condition. And cover medication.”
“Wait until you retire and get the S1 which gives you medical cover.”
“My very expensive UK drugs are very inexpensive here in Spain. I buy them over the counter using my UK prescription. Check first as these were controlled drugs back in the UK so I was surprised I could buy them so easily.”
“In the areas where most expats reside, you’ll find that doctors and pharmacists understand ‘American prescription’ needs. Make your list and send to an immigration consultant or directly to a doctor in the area you’re looking to reside.”
Conclusion
For those applying for the Spain non lucrative visa with ongoing medical needs, the primary concern is securing health insurance that fully covers pre-existing conditions with no exclusions.
Many community members noted that while private health insurance (PHI) is required, it often does not include prescription coverage—however, medications in Spain tend to be significantly cheaper than in countries like the US or UK.
It’s recommended to contact Spanish pharmacies in advance to inquire about medication pricing and availability. Some medications may be available over the counter, even if they are controlled or costly elsewhere.
Additionally, retirees from the UK may be eligible for public healthcare in Spain through the S1 form once receiving a UK state pension. Until then, private insurance is necessary.
Consulting with a health insurance broker and possibly a Spanish doctor or pharmacist about your medication needs is a proactive step. It’s also wise to speak with a tax and estate specialist before making the move, as health and financial planning go hand in hand.
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Make sure to join our dedicated Spanish Non Lucrative Visa group here!
