A semester abroad in Spain is easy to plan, because Spain is an EU country. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) applies there for medically necessary treatment. However, it does not replace foreign health insurance. Repatriation and private treatment are not covered by it. This guide shows the points you should check for Spain.
In short
In Spain, the EHIC applies because Spain belongs to the European Union. However, it only covers medically necessary services, not repatriation and not every private treatment. You also do not need a visa. If you stay longer than three months, you must register within three months of entry. You then receive a certificate with your NIE.
Does my German health insurance stay in place?
Whether your German insurance continues during the semester abroad depends on your enrolment in Germany and on the rules of your health insurer. The EHIC proves your insurance in the other country. Have the arrangement confirmed in writing by your health insurer before you leave, so you have the answer before departure.
Which documents do I need for a semester abroad in Spain?
EU nationals do not need a visa for Spain. For registration after three months, the following documents are required. Whether proof of sufficient funds is required in an individual case is decided by the authority. Keep the documents together and ready.
- Valid passport or identity card
- Proof of enrolment at a recognised university and of comprehensive health insurance. A valid EHIC counts as sufficient under certain conditions
- Proof of sufficient financial resources for non-employed persons
What does the semester cost?
No verified monthly amount is available for living costs during a semester abroad in Spain. Accommodation costs also differ considerably between Madrid, Barcelona and smaller cities. Erasmus+ students are exempt from tuition fees for study, enrolment and examinations at the host university. Small fees, for example for insurance or the student union, may still apply. The Erasmus+ grant is also a contribution. The programme page names it for travel and living costs without a fixed amount (Erasmus grant, in German).
Worked example: Living costs and length of stay depend on the city and the host university’s requirements, so we do not state a total here. Calculate with your own figures, and ask the host university about possible fees.
Frequently asked questions
Does my European Health Insurance Card apply in Spain?
Yes, for medically necessary treatment in the Spanish system. Private treatment that can wait, and repatriation, are not covered by it.
Do I need a visa for Spain?
As a national of an EU country, you do not need a visa. For stays of up to three months, a valid passport or identity card is sufficient. If you stay longer, you register within three months of arrival.
How should I proceed now?
- Have your health insurer confirm your insurance abroad in writing.
- Apply for the European Health Insurance Card in good time before departure.
- If you stay longer than three months, register within three months of arrival and have the certificate with your NIE issued.
- If needed, take out private supplementary cover for repatriation and private treatment.
Sources, each retrieved 20 October 2026:
- European Commission, European Health Insurance Card, FAQ on social security (students, scope, limits of reimbursement).
- European Commission, Erasmus+, Studying abroad (tuition fees, grant without a fixed amount, status of the page as retrieved).
- Administración General del Estado, Estancia (up to 3 months), page status 24 March 2026.
- Administración General del Estado, Inscribirte como residente (registration within three months, documents), page status 25 March 2026.
- Regulation (EC) No 883/2004 and the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
- § 5(1) no. 9 SGB V.
Last updated: October 2026. This guide is general information, not individual advice. The German version is authoritative.
Editorial team: Academycon
You can find the online check at check.academycon.de.
Last updated: October 2026. This guide provides general information and does not replace individual advice.
