Cigna Global for Expats in Spain (2026)

For the non-lucrative visa, Spain requires private health insurance with no co-pays, no coverage limits, and full coverage within Spain. Cigna's Gold and Platinum plans typically satisfy these requirements. The Silver plan may have limitations that some consulates question.

For the digital nomad visa, requirements are similar. Consulates want to see comprehensive coverage, not travel-style insurance. Cigna's documentation is familiar to Spanish officials, which reduces friction.

What to verify: Before purchasing, confirm with Cigna that your specific plan meets Spanish visa requirements. Request a sample policy certificate to review the coverage terms. Some consulates want to see specific language about no co-payments on essential services.

Silver: Core coverage focusing on inpatient care. Lower premiums but more limited outpatient benefits. May not meet all Spanish visa requirements due to potential coverage gaps.

Gold: Comprehensive inpatient and outpatient coverage. The most commonly chosen plan for Spanish visa applications. Balances coverage breadth with cost.

Platinum: Maximum coverage including wellness, dental, and vision options. Higher premiums but fewest restrictions. Good for those with ongoing health needs or families wanting comprehensive protection.

For a 35-year-old, expect roughly €150-250/month for Gold coverage with a moderate deductible. For a 55-year-old, costs rise to €250-400/month or more. Platinum adds 20-40% to these figures.

Deductibles reduce premiums but can affect visa compliance. Some consulates view high deductibles as coverage gaps. If cost is a primary concern, discuss with Cigna which deductible levels still satisfy Spanish requirements.

Family plans offer some savings over individual policies. Children are typically less expensive to add than adults.

Cigna has relationships with major private hospital groups in Spain, including Quirónsalud, Vithas, and HM Hospitales. In Madrid, Barcelona, and other major cities, you'll have multiple options for private care.

You can typically use any private hospital—Cigna doesn't restrict you to a narrow network. For routine care, you'll file claims for reimbursement. For planned procedures, you can often arrange direct billing.

In smaller cities and rural areas, private hospital options are more limited regardless of insurer. Many expats use Cigna for major care and pay out-of-pocket for routine visits to local doctors.

Cigna provides policy certificates that outline coverage terms. For Spanish visa applications, request a certificate that explicitly states: full coverage in Spain, no coverage limits, coverage for hospitalization and outpatient care, and ideally no co-payments on essential services.

Some expats request certificates in Spanish, though English is generally accepted. If your consulate is particularly strict, having Spanish documentation can help.

Allow time for document requests—Cigna can take several business days to issue certificates. Don't wait until the last minute before your visa appointment.

Non-lucrative visa holders typically rely on private insurance throughout their stay—you won't have access to Spain's public system through employment. Cigna remains your ongoing coverage.

Digital nomad visa holders are in a similar position unless they transition to employed status. If you later get a work contract and enroll in Spanish Social Security, you can evaluate whether to keep Cigna as supplemental coverage.

Many long-term expats maintain Cigna even after gaining public healthcare access. Private coverage provides faster access to specialists and private hospitals, while public healthcare serves as a backup.

vs Allianz Care: Similar coverage and pricing tier. Allianz has strong European presence. Choice often comes down to specific plan details and personal preference. Both are safe choices for Spanish visas.

vs SafetyWing: Very different products. SafetyWing is much cheaper but may not meet visa requirements. Cigna is the safer choice for visa applications; SafetyWing may work for those already resident or as supplemental coverage.

vs Spanish private insurers: Local options like Sanitas or Adeslas are cheaper but require Spanish residency to enroll. Cigna works for the visa application; you can switch to local coverage later if desired.