A world-class healthcare system
Spain has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, with universal public cover for residents who contribute, alongside a strong private sector. On the Costa del Sol, major public hospitals —such as the Hospital Costa del Sol in Marbella or the Hospital Regional in Málaga— sit alongside leading private centres (Vithas, Quirónsalud, HC Marbella).
Visitors and tourists
EU citizens visiting Spain have the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which covers emergency treatment within the public system. British nationals, after Brexit, use the GHIC card for the same purpose. In both cases it covers emergencies only —not repatriation or private care— so travel insurance is still recommended.
Resident pensioners
Pensioners from the EU, the EEA and the UK who settle in Spain can access public healthcare via the S1 form (which replaced the former E-121/E-106): their home country covers the cost and they receive the same care as a Spanish pensioner. It is a key step worth arranging before you move.
Residents who do not contribute
If you become a resident but neither work nor draw a pension, you have two options: the convenio especial (paying an affordable monthly fee into the public system) or, more commonly among foreigners, taking out private health insurance.
Private health insurance
Insurers such as Sanitas (part of the Bupa group), Adeslas, DKV and Cigna offer policies that are very popular with the international community: fast appointments, doctors who speak English and other languages, and direct access to specialists. It is the preferred choice for many newcomers while they arrange access to the public system.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies, marked with a green cross, are plentiful and highly capable: the pharmacist can advise you on minor ailments. Every town always has a 24-hour duty pharmacy (farmacia de guardia) for emergencies outside normal hours.
Please note: this guide is for general information and reflects the rules in force in 2026, which may change. Always seek professional advice before making important decisions. Elite Properties Spain can put you in touch with trusted lawyers, administrators (gestores) and tax advisers on the Costa del Sol.