What is the 'Convenio Especial'? Access the public health system in Spain.

Recently, we have had many questions about the convenio especial and how to access it. In this blog update, I introduce you to some of the main concepts and how to apply.

So, the convenio especial is a special agreement designed for European citizens without access to public health care in Spain. It enables the user to have full access (with some exceptions mentioned below) to the Spanish public health system for a fixed monthly fee. This fee is currently set at:

- 60 euros for under 65 years old
- 157 euros for 65 years old and above.

Of course, if you are over 65 years old and entitled to a pension in your country of origin, then you will be covered by the S1 certificate.

So what are the benefits?

Some people would argue that it would be better to pay for a private health insurance plan than to pay 60 euros a month into the public system. The answer to this is that the convenio especial includes all pre-existing conditions. A private policy would not. Health issues such as diabetes etc. are one of several reasons for many people choosing the convenio especial option.

In addition, the public health service is much more complete in terms of resources and cover.

What treatments or services are except?

The convenio especial does cover the following:

- Medication is not included meaning you would have to pay for any prescriptions etc.
- Prosthesis are not included
- Non-emergency ambulances are not included
- We believe that it is currently the case that the EHIC would not be included in the convenio.

There are clearly pros and cons to this service and it depends on your personal circumstances as to whether you can benefit from it. Many of our customers have found it to be very useful.

Am I entitled to sign up to the convenio especial?

The conditions for application are that you have lived as a resident in Spain for at least one year and that you are able to prove this through both your residency card/certificate and your padrón certificate. You also need to have a Spanish bank account to be able to make the monthly payments.

How do I apply?

At LingoMar, we can assist you through the whole application process. All we need is a copy of your residency card, your padrón certificate (updated within three months) and for you to sign various application forms (which we will complete for you). We will even go down to Alicante with you to sign for your new S.I.P. card when it is ready (it is necessary to sign for this in person in Alicante).

Our policy is that if your application is not accepted by the Alicante health authority, then we will not charge you anything for our service.

Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or doubts https://www.lingomar.com/copy-of-contact-us