Healthcare for Undocumented Immigrants

Illegal immigrants living in Spain will have access to free primary healthcare with a general practitioner are reinstated. These undocumented citizens lost the right to healthcare under the April 2012 ruling. This left only pregnant women, those in emergency situations and children with access.

According to the health minister, Alfonso Alonso, the ruling Popular Party have decided on this decision to alleviate the pressure on the emergency services. The agreement stops short at giving the immigrants health cards. Alonso said that this would give them a right that does not exist in any other country.

The government is not considering any other changes to the current health system. The hope that co payment for prescription medicines also introduced in 2012 may have been repealed has brought a negative from Alonso who suggests that Spain already subsides prescription medicine

Alonso who refers to those who are living in Spain without papers, made no mention about the post 2012 residents of Spain who are also denied healthcare (excepting primary care for pregnant women, children and emergency cases). Is the minister aware that there is no law supporting this. The law on healthcare states that ‘most residents in Spain may be entitled to free healthcare’

Any foreigner in Spain is entitled to basic and emergency treatment and should register on the padron for this to be applicable. The servicios sociales (social services) of the town hall will assist those in need.

For more information on post April 2012 residents, please visit this LINK.

Please note: The information provided is based upon our understanding of current legislation. It is not legal advice but is provided freely to enable you to be properly informed. We recommend that if you are considering taking action, you should seek professional advice.