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Various kinds of insurance are advisable for foreign residents in Spain. Here is a brief overview:

Health Insurance

Foreign residents are eligible for some treatment under the highly-regarded Spanish national health system, but this is limited. You will need private healthcare - a subscription entitles you to free or reduced-price treatment.

Life Insurance

Spanish banks offering mortgages usually insist that you sign a life policy that guarantees full payment of the sum outstanding on your home, should the main wage-earner die or be unable to work. Such a policy will pay money directly to the bank, not the survivors. Spanish life insurance companies tend to offer a choice between an individual policy (covers only one family member) and a family policy, covering (for instance) both spouses. There is sometimes a discount for choosing family cover.

House Insurance

You will need to show your solicitor or moneylender proof of buildings insurance during the exchange of contracts when buying property in Spain. If a particular insurance policy is recommended, read the small print before committing yourself, so you know EXACTLY what is covered. Those without fluent Spanish should find an insurer offering full support in English for the life of the policy or (better still) cover designed for expats in Spain. Policies should cover the total rebuild value of your home, not current market value - ask a local builder or surveyor for advice.

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