Moving abroad involves adapting to new challenges and responsibilities, including choosing the best medical and financial protection. Making mistakes when buying insurance can lead to high costs and a lack of coverage when you need it most, or even get your visa denied.
This article provides a step-by-step guide to avoid the 5 most common mistakes and ensure your policy meets your real needs.
Mistake 1: Not Checking if the Policy is Valid for Your Visa or Residency
One of the most common mistakes when buying insurance for a visa application is not considering the policy requirements.
The requirements set by the Spanish government for these purposes are:
- Full/Comprehensive coverage
- No co-payments
- Hospitalization included
- Repatriation of remains in case of death (depending on the country of origin)
At Sanitas, we have different options that meet these requirements, depending on whether it’s for a student, a professional, a family, etc. Ask our advisors for no-obligation assistance to help you make your choice.
Mistake 2: Not Analyzing the Actual Coverage
Another one of the common mistakes when buying insurance is choosing the cheapest option without checking if it covers:
- Local and international medical care
- Access to all types of medical specialties
- Treatment for chronic or pre-existing conditions
A basic policy can leave you exposed to high costs for consultations or medications. Always review the coverage details before signing.
Mistake 3: Underestimating the Sum Insured and Reimbursement Limits
It’s also one of the common mistakes when buying insurance, to focus on the premium instead of the sum insured. Keep in mind:
- Annual reimbursement limit
- Caps per service (consultation, diagnostic tests, hospitalization)
- Co-payments and deductibles
If the sum insured is insufficient, you’ll end up paying out-of-pocket. Calculate the average costs in your destination country and choose a protection level accordingly.
Mistake 4: Overlooking Waiting Periods and Exclusions
Did you know that some policies include waiting periods in the first few months? Not considering these timeframes is another mistake when buying insurance.
Also, carefully review the exclusions:
- High-risk sports
- Dental or fertility treatments
- Pre-existing conditions
To avoid surprises, compare several different policies and choose one with minimal waiting periods and few exclusions.
Mistake 5: Not Checking the Network of Medical Providers
Insurers usually have networks of associated medical centers. A common mistake when buying insurance is not ensuring that:
- The hospitals and clinics are near your home
- There is coverage for telemedicine or video consultations
- The reimbursement process is quick and easy
Sanitas is the leader in the health insurance sector in Spain, and offers you a medical network with more than 58,000 doctors in over 4,500 proprietary and partner centers, as well as online management services and medical video consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1- Can I add more coverage after purchasing the insurance?
Yes, with Sanitas you can add supplements or additional coverage after contracting your policy.
2- How does my medical history affect the policy price?
Pre-existing conditions can lead to a higher premium (surcharge) or exclusions. Discuss your specific case with our advisors.
3- What insurance do I need for my visa application in Spain?
For a visa or residency in Spain, you need a plan with full coverage and no co-payments, like the Sanitas Mas Salud no co-payments plan.
4- Does international reimbursement cover emergencies outside of Europe?
It depends on the policy: some include worldwide coverage, while others limit reimbursements to Europe. Always check the geographical scope.
5- Can I switch to Sanitas without losing my seniority?
When you transfer your insurance from another company to Sanitas, you can maintain your seniority and eliminate waiting periods on your new contract.
Sources and Additional Resources
For more information on health requirements in Spain, consult the official portal of the Spanish Ministry of Health.
For international data on health insurance, visit the World Health Organization (WHO).
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