Hello all,
I am about to take up my expat life in Spain and am trying to figure out the whole health insurance coverage side of things.

I have quit my job and could have COBRA for some time, I've heard up to 1.5 years - but it is sooo expensive.

I don't need totally great coverage, I am just afraid that one major health incident and there goes all the savings I am planning to live on.

Thanks!
John

Expat coverage isn't cheap, either. And most countries with a national health care system will require you to have your own health insurance that covers roughly the same as the national coverage.

That said, there are expat policies available from most private insurance companies - in the US and Britain. Google "expat health insurance" and you'll get a whole range of companies and coverages. There is also coverage available through some expat groups. Check this website: AARO - Association of Americans Resident Overseas - AARO’s Health Care Program for Expatriate Americans
You have to be a member of the association to get the membership rates, but if you contact the company that handles the coverage, they also can provide you information about the independent coverage they offer.
Cheers,
Bev

Excellent, Bev, thanks so much!

How easy is it for an American to retire to spain? I lived in spain for 90 days summer before last and then returned last spring for another 5 weeks. I am now going back to spain again for the month of march. I would love to live permanently in spain but I guess I thought it would be a difficult thing to achieve for a retired American.
jezter56

Hi Jezter,
I don't know about retiring in Spain, through my religious Order I'll be getting a Religious Activities visa which grants residency.

Retiring to most European countries depends quite a bit on being able to convince them that you won't be a drain on their resources. You usually have to prove an "adequate" source of income, plus your own social insurances (primarily health) to meet the national standards.

Speaking the local language and having some "reason" for wanting to settle there help, too. Check Spain's website for its US Embassy and Consulate for details on how the visa thing works.
Cheers,
Bev

what part of spain are you calling home? I am only familiar with malaga region. Is there a more affordable area.

Johhnyexpat, health insurance is relatively cheap in Spain. Use a Spanish company, as I found for instance UK companies were horrendous.

For a couple in their mid fifties you can get cover for around €100 a month, in the UK it cost me over £250! Sanitas are also part of BUPA, so you know they are reliable

I use Sanitas
Sanitas official website - SANITAS

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