At a Glance: Spanish Healthcare
| System Name | Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS) |
|---|---|
| Management | Decentralized (Managed by 17 Autonomous Communities) |
| Key Requirement | Social Security Number & Empadronamiento |
| Card Name | Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (TSI) / SIP |
| Coverage | Free Doctors/Hospitals, Subsidized Medicine |
| Emergency Number | 112 (General), 061 (Medical) |
Spain's Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS) is renowned for its high quality and accessibility. It is a universal system funded by social security contributions and taxes.
However, the system is decentralized. This means the rules, the look of the health card, and even the digital apps vary depending on where you live (e.g., CatSalut in Catalonia, SERMAS in Madrid).
Who is Entitled to Free Healthcare?
- Are employed or self-employed (Autónomo) and pay Social Security contributions.
- Receive certain state benefits or a pension.
- Are a dependent (spouse/child) of a covered person.
- Are an EU/EEA citizen with an EHIC card (for temporary stays).
- Are a pregnant woman (regardless of residency status).
The Golden Key: Empadronamiento
Crucial Step: You cannot get a health card without the "Padron". It proves you live in that specific municipality.
Step-by-Step: Getting Your Tarjeta Sanitaria (TSI)
Step 1: Social Security
Ensure you are registered with the Seguridad Social and have a number.
Step 2: Find your Centro de Salud
Identify the primary health center assigned to your address.
Step 3: Application
Visit the center with your SS Number, Padron, and ID (TIE/Passport).
Pharmacy Co-Payment Tiers (TSI Codes)
| Code | Status / Income | You Pay |
|---|---|---|
| TSI 001 | Pension / Social exclusion | 0% (Free) |
| TSI 003 | Active Workers (Income < €18k) | 40% |
Emergency Care (Urgencias)
If you have a serious medical emergency, go straight to the nearest hospital's Urgencias department. It's free if you have your TSI card.
Search Ministry of Health Directory
Locate Hospitals, Centros de Salud, and Pharmacies officially recognized by the SNS.
Official Facility Search →