NLV Health Insurance: 3 Key Rules Not to Get Denied
Why This Is Your Single Most Important Document for your visa application:
- The Visa Rule: The Spanish government (via the NLV) requires all applicants to have comprehensive private health insurance equivalent to the Spanish public health system.
- The Goal: It’s not just about meeting a requirement; it’s about peace of mind and, crucially, accessing high-quality private care in your new Northern home.
- Your Personal Hook: This requirement is actually a benefit, as it means new residents are self-sufficient.
The Three Non-Negotiable NLV Requirements
This is the most critical section.
Complete Coverage in Spain: It must be a comprehensive healthcare insurance policy (similar to the Spanish Social Security system), covering primary care, specialist treatments, hospitalization, and emergencies.
| Requirement | Explanation |
| 1. No Co-Payments (Sin Copagos) | The policy must cover 100% of all services (hospitalization, specialists, etc.) within the private network. If a policy has a small fee per visit (a co-pay), it will likely be rejected. |
| 2. No Waiting Periods (Sin Carencias) | You must have immediate access to all services (including surgery and specialized tests) from day one. The consulate expects full coverage immediately. |
| 3. Full Annual Coverage (Paid Upfront) | The policy must cover 365 days and, for most consulates, must be paid in full for the first year. This proves your stability. |
| Bonus Requirement: Repatriation | The best, most compliant policies often include repatriation coverage, which is necessary for a smooth visa approval process. |
Authorized Company in Spain: While the formal requirements focus on coverage, the practical application by consulates and immigration offices often requires the insurer to be authorized or operating in Spain.
Health Insurance Calculator (NLV rules enforced)
This calculator enforces NLV requirements: No co-pay, No waiting period (coverage starts immediately), and Full annual coverage.
Results
Use the form and click Calculate to see monthly and annual premiums. NLV rules are applied automatically.
Comparators (for reference): Rastreator, Acierto.
Top Providers for Expats in Spain
The ones known to work well with NLV and the ones with strong national networks (important for the North, where networks can be smaller).
- Adeslas, Sanitas, DKV, Asisa: These are the largest Spanish insurers with wide networks.
- Cigna, Feather, ASSSA: Strong international/expat-focused alternatives that offer good English support.
- Crucial Tip for the North: Specific geographic warning.
- “The North is different! Unlike the big southern cities, some smaller towns in Asturias or Galicia may have fewer private clinics. Always check the provider’s ‘Cuadro Médico’ (medical directory) for your specific town before buying to ensure you have nearby access.”
The Retiree Factor (Age and Pre-Existing Conditions)
Concerns of our specific demographic (retirees).
- Age Limits: Some policies have an age limit for new customers (often 70 or 75). Providers like Cigna or ASSSA (as per the search results) that may be more flexible for older applicants.
- Pre-Existing Conditions: While many policies exclude new coverage for pre-existing conditions, the consulate will usually still accept the policy if it meets the no co-pay/no waiting period requirements. The NLV goal is to ensure you have some full coverage, not to approve your medical history.
