How does an international policy differ from an ordinary Spanish one?

An ordinary Spanish policy covers healthcare in Spain and usually only limited assistance on trips abroad (for example, up to €25,000). An international policy gives full cover in several countries through an international network of providers.

Who needs international insurance?

Those living between two countries, travelling home often, working remotely with travel, and students or professionals living temporarily abroad. If you are in Spain almost all the time, a local policy usually suffices.

Does an international policy work for a Spanish visa?

It may work if the cover applies in Spain and meets the residency requirements (full, no copays, with a certificate). Check this in advance — not every international policy is accepted for a visa.

International Health Insurance for Living Between Two Countries

Most expats in Tenerife are fine with an ordinary Spanish policy. But if your life is split between countries — you travel home often, work with travel or study abroad — it is worth looking at international health insurance. Let us look at when it is really needed.

What an international policy is

International health insurance gives full cover in several countries — through an international network of providers, not just in Spain. It fits those who are regularly outside the country and want the same access to healthcare everywhere.

How it differs from an ordinary Spanish policy

Ordinary policy: covers healthcare in Spain and usually only limited assistance on trips abroad (for example, assistance up to €25,000).
International policy: full healthcare in several countries, not just emergency help during a trip.

If you are in Tenerife almost all the time, the difference does not matter. But when living “between two countries”, it becomes key.

Who needs it

Those who live between two countries and spend long periods in each.
Those who travel home often and want to be treated both there and in Spain.
Remote workers with frequent travel.
Students and professionals living temporarily abroad.

What to look at

Geography of cover — which countries and regions are included.
Limits — annual and for individual services.
Evacuation and repatriation — important for serious cases far from home.
Visa compatibility — if the policy is also needed for residency in Spain.

Tip: first honestly assess how much time you actually spend outside Spain. An international policy is more expensive, and there is no point overpaying if you mostly live in Tenerife.

How much it costs

International policies are more expensive than local ones, due to cover in several countries. The exact price is calculated individually — by geography, age and cover. The estimate is free and commits you to nothing.

Living between two countries and unsure whether you need an international policy or a Spanish one is enough? Just ask in the chat — we will help you work it out for your situation and prepare a free estimate with a manager.