Hi all,

We (myself, husband and dog) are thinking of moving to Spain next year and have a question that you may be able to answer. We currently live in France as early retirees, having moved here over 3 years ago from UK.

Just to quickly explain what's happening here ... France is changing the way in which it treats any immigrants coming into France regarding its State Health System. Up until the end of this month it was compulsory to affiliate into the the system + take out top-up insurance. You were affiliated by either paying-in an amount based on earnings, via E106 or E121 or free if you're income is below a certain amount.

To bring France in-line with other EU countries any immigrants who do not intend to work in France (early retirees) will now have to prove they are not going to be a burdon on the state and be able to support themselves and have adequate private med insurance in place. This would be the case unless you have been resident in France 5 years, find work or reach UK retirement age when you would then get reciprica l health care via the E121 via UK.

My question is does Spain operate on the same system where once you been a Spanish resident for 5 years you are entitled to join the State Health System?

Sorry it's a bit long winded but hope you can help?