Insurance in Spain for Expats: Guides and Practical Advice
Clear answers to the questions expats ask most about insurance, savings and tax in Spain. Written in English by our licensed Allianz advisers in Murcia, so you understand how things work here before you sign anything.
Guides and practical advice by topic
From which insurance is compulsory in Spain to health cover for your visa, car insurance with your foreign no-claims history or inheritance planning: choose a category and find guides written for people who have moved to Spain.
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Personal insurance
Vehicles
Business & self-employed
Savings & investment
Living in Spain
FAQs
Questions expats often ask us
Do I have to take out life or home insurance with my bank to get a mortgage in Spain?
No. You're free to choose your insurer. The lender can require the property to be insured against damage and may offer a lower interest rate if you take its products, but it can't force you to buy them from the bank. We compare the bank's offer with an Allianz policy so you can decide with the full picture.
Which insurance is compulsory in Spain?
Only a few by law: third-party liability for cars, motorbikes and, since January 2026, e-scooters; liability for recreational boats; professional liability for certain professions; and, for employers, the accident insurance required by most collective agreements. Others, like building insurance on a mortgaged home or private health insurance for some visas, are required in practice.
Can I keep using my European Health Insurance Card once I live in Spain?
The EHIC (or the UK GHIC) is designed for temporary stays. Once you're resident, you access public healthcare through Spanish Social Security, for example if you work here or have an S1 form, or you need private health insurance. For many residence visas, private cover is a requirement.
Will a Spanish insurer recognise my no-claims history from abroad?
Many don't, which is a common frustration for expats. With us, you bring a no-claims certificate from your previous insurer and we apply the maximum no-claims bonus we can based on that history.
Can I get advice and documents in English?
Yes, all our advice is in English, in person in Murcia or by WhatsApp and video call. Policy documents are usually issued in Spanish, but we explain every clause in English before you sign.
Do I need to be resident in Spain to take out insurance?
For most products you'll need an NIE and an address in Spain. Some cover, such as travel medical insurance for relatives visiting you, is designed for non-residents. Tell us your situation and we'll tell you what's possible.