Spain is making it easier for undocumented foreigners to access healthcare: details

Spain is making its healthcare system more accessible: new rules allow undocumented migrants to receive medical care more quickly and with less red tape. In this article, we explain how the ‘declaration of responsibility’ works, who is guaranteed access to treatment, and what will change in practice. Find out how to take advantage of these new opportunities and avoid any complications

Get your electronic vignette for traveling in Europe online

GET

Spain is taking another step towards restoring the principle of universal healthcare. The country’s authorities have adopted a decision that significantly improves access to medical care for foreigners residing in the country without legal status.

Healthcare in Spain: what has changed

The Spanish government has approved a new royal decree aimed at expanding access to the public healthcare system. The main objective is to reduce red tape and simplify the process of obtaining medical care for the most vulnerable groups.

Foreigners without documents no longer need to go through complex administrative procedures or provide numerous supporting documents.

A declaration of responsibility instead of certificates

A key innovation is the option to submit a so-called ‘declaration of responsibility’. This is a document in which a person confirms that they have no other health insurance.

Once such a declaration has been submitted, the system works as follows:

1. the applicant is immediately issued with a temporary document;

2. they gain access to public healthcare services without delay;

3. the final processing of the application takes up to three months.

Thus, medical care becomes available almost immediately, without lengthy delays.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Who is guaranteed assistance in any case

It is specifically emphasised that, regardless of immigration status, access to medical care in Spain is guaranteed for:

▪️ children,

▪️ pregnant women,

▪️ victims of violence,

▪️ other vulnerable groups.

These groups were already entitled to medical care, but the process for accessing it has now become simpler and faster.

What is the essence of the reform?

The main aim of the reform is to restore the principle of universality to Spain’s healthcare system. This means that access to basic healthcare must be guaranteed to all people residing in the country, regardless of their legal status.

Furthermore, the authorities aim to remove the administrative barriers that previously prevented people from seeking treatment in a timely manner, which in some cases led to a deterioration in health and an increased burden on emergency services.

What does this mean for Ukrainians?

The new rules send an important signal to migrants: accessing medical care in Spain has become easier, faster and safer. Even without documents, a person can count on basic treatment and support from the state.

The reform also contributes to a more sustainable healthcare system overall, as timely access to doctors helps prevent serious illnesses and reduces risks to society.

Important information for travelling in Spain

If you are in Spain or planning to travel around the country by car, it is important to arrange not only medical insurance but also your travel documents in advance.

To use toll roads in Europe, you will need a vignette or to pay the toll. To avoid fines and unnecessary expenses, it is convenient to arrange everything online in advance.

The Visit Ukraine service allows you to quickly purchase vignettes for various European countries, including routes through Spain and neighbouring countries. This is particularly relevant for Ukrainians and foreign drivers travelling in transit or planning long journeys.

Reminder! Spain has updated its immigration legislation concerning the employment and residence of foreign nationals. Find out what changes will affect Ukrainians, employment, visas and family reunification from 2026.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2026, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.