Last Updated on April 18, 2026 by Bruno Bianchi
Question
“Can someone advise? We are applying for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa. My husband receives a state pension, and we are both eligible for S1 healthcare. Do we register it before arrival in Spain as we want to remain eligible for healthcare in the UK? Does Manchester accept the S1 form from DWP without registering it? Very confusing.”
Answers
These are the answers from our members of the Spanish Non Lucrative Visa group!
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Start the Moving to Spain Hub →“You have to show BLS that you have the S1 prior to your appointment. This does not affect your healthcare in the UK whilst you are going through this process.
We came out this year on an Spain Non Lucrative Visa. We are still waiting on our TIE to get registered on the system as there is a huge backlog. So, if you take medication, come out with at least 6 months’ supply. You can buy it over the counter, but it’s expensive.”
“You only part register it before your appointment. I took a photo of the part registration and printed it for the application. Then, once in Spain, you get your TIE, and you can fully register your S1. This can take a few months depending on what area you are in, so if you are on medication, take a couple of months’ worth with you.”
“Hi there, here’s the procedure:
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Explore Cities →- Request an application form by phone from the Overseas Healthcare Services if you have a UK State Pension or another qualifying exportable benefit.
- You must register your S1 at your local INSS office or via the INSS online portal.
- If you are experiencing delays registering your S1 with local authorities and require emergency or urgent treatment, contact the Overseas Healthcare Services.
- Once your registration is processed, the INSS will send you a Spanish social security number by post. Take this to your local healthcare centre to register.
- You’ll be given a medical card to use when visiting a doctor, hospital, or pharmacy.”
Conclusion
When applying for a Spain non lucrative visa and using the S1 for healthcare coverage, you need to show proof of your S1 form during your visa application process. This does not affect your healthcare status in the UK while applying.
Partial registration of the S1 can be done before the appointment, and full registration takes place once you’re in Spain and have your TIE card.
It’s essential to bring enough medication for the initial months, as registering fully with the healthcare system can take some time, depending on the region.
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