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Chapter 6 of 15

Health insurance

SNS (National Health System), private options, EHIC

Summary

Spain has an excellent public healthcare system — the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS) — that consistently scores high in European rankings. As an EU emigrant, you have several routes to access healthcare: through the public system (if you work or via Convenio Especial), through private insurance, or a combination. Most Dutch emigrants ultimately choose a private insurance supplement or fully private coverage if not employed.

What you need to know

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Knowledge Base

Glossary
  • NIE (Foreigner Identity Number)

    The Spanish identification number for foreigners. Your NIE is required for almost everything: opening a bank account, renting or buying a house, working, and filing taxes. Apply for it as soon as possible at the police station or consulate.

  • Empadronamiento (Municipal Registration)

    The mandatory registration at your municipality (Ayuntamiento). The Empadronamiento proves that you live in a certain municipality and is required for access to healthcare, education and many other services.

  • Padrón Municipal (Census Register)

    The municipal census register. Your proof of registration (certificado de empadronamiento) from the Padrón is one of the most requested documents in Spain.

  • Residencia (Residence Certificate)

    Proof of residence rights as an EU citizen in Spain. After 3 months you must register as a resident with the police. You receive a green A4 certificate with your NIE.

  • IRPF (Personal Income Tax)

    The Spanish personal income tax. Rates vary from 19% to 47% depending on your income and autonomous region. You file annually between April and June via the Agencia Tributaria.

  • Beckham Law (Special Tax Regime)

    A tax-favorable regime for newcomers in Spain. You pay a flat rate of 24% on Spanish income up to €600,000 for 6 years. Ideal for expats with a high salary. Named after footballer David Beckham.

  • IBI (Property Tax)

    The Spanish municipal property tax, comparable to the Dutch OZB. Levied annually based on the cadastral value of your property.

  • Modelo 030 (Tax Registration Form)

    The form to register with the Spanish tax authority (Agencia Tributaria). This links your NIE to your tax data and address.

  • Agencia Tributaria (Tax Agency)

    The Spanish tax agency (Hacienda). Here you file tax returns, register as a taxpayer and handle all fiscal matters. Much can be done online via the website with certificado digital.

  • Autónomo (Self-Employed)

    The Spanish status for self-employed workers. As an autónomo you pay monthly social security contributions (cuota) to the Seguridad Social. New autónomos receive a tarifa plana (reduced rate) in the first year.

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