DKV Health Insurance Renewal: What Expats Need to Know
- Franco Coetzee
- 4 days ago
- 9 min read
Renewing your DKV private health insurance is essential if you’re an expat in Spain. It ensures your medical coverage and keeps you compliant with visa and residency requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
Automatic Renewals: Most DKV policies renew automatically on December 31 unless canceled in writing by November 30.
Legal Compliance: Active health insurance is mandatory for Non-Lucrative, Student, and Digital Nomad Visa holders.
Coverage Standards: Policies must include no co-payments, no waiting periods, hospitalization, and repatriation.
Lifelong Renewals: After three years, DKV guarantees policy renewal regardless of age or health.
Premium Adjustments: Renewal premiums may change based on age, location, and healthcare costs.
Missing the cancellation deadline means your policy renews for 12 months, and you’re responsible for the full premium. Use DKV’s online tools to manage renewals, update details, or obtain required documents for visa applications. Always ensure your policy is active to avoid legal or residency issues.
How the Renewal Process Works
DKV automatically renews your health insurance policy for another 12 months unless you take steps to cancel it beforehand. The process ensures uninterrupted coverage unless you decide otherwise. This is particularly important for maintaining approved insurance status for residency.
Renewal Deadlines and Timelines
For most DKV health insurance policies, the expiration date is December 31. If you plan to cancel or modify your DKV health insurance policy, you must notify DKV in writing by November 30, which is 30 days before the policy's expiration date.
"The usual maturity date of health insurance policies is 31 December. This means that if you wish to cancel your health insurance, you must notify your company at least one month in advance, i.e. before 30 November."DKV Seguros
If DKV makes any changes to your policy, they are required to notify you at least 60 days in advance.
More details on updating your information or canceling your policy are covered in the steps below.
Steps to Renew Your Policy
DKV will inform you ahead of time about any premium changes, which may depend on factors like age, location, or adjustments in healthcare costs.
To update your personal information - such as your passport details, bank account, or address - log in to the eCliente portal using your ID and policy number. Alternatively, you can contact customer support via email at atencion.cliente@dkvseguros.es or call their English-speaking support team.
If you wish to cancel your policy before it renews, you’ll need to send a written request. This request should include your NIF/NIE, policy number, and the reason for cancellation. You can submit it via email, post, or fax to your local DKV branch. Note that discounts are applied at renewal for specific payment frequencies: 2.8% for quarterly payments, 4.6% for half-yearly payments, and 7% for annual payments.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
Missing the November 30 deadline has direct consequences. Your policy will automatically renew for the next 12 months, and you’ll be required to pay the full year’s premium.
"If you do not notify your intention to cancel it at least 30 days before the maturity date, the policy will be renewed automatically for another full year, and you will be obliged to pay the corresponding premium."DKV Seguros
There is no grace period or option for a partial refund in such cases. However, new policyholders have a 14-day window after signing to cancel their policy without any penalties.
Meeting Visa and Residency Requirements
Keeping your health insurance policy up to date isn't just about maintaining coverage - it’s also essential for meeting Spain's immigration requirements. For expats, staying compliant with visa and residency rules depends on having the right level of coverage. Spanish authorities mandate continuous health insurance, and your renewed policy certificate serves as proof of compliance.
Coverage Requirements for Non-Lucrative Visas
If you’re renewing a non-lucrative visa or residency permit, your health insurance certificate must confirm coverage for the full duration of your stay in Spain - typically 12 months from the renewal date. The DKV Visado plan is tailored to meet these standards, offering immediate activation, no copayments, and no waiting periods, making it ideal for visa holders. While your initial visa application may have required a medical certificate of good health, renewals only require proof of active health insurance.
"If you are renewing your visa or residence permit, proof of valid health insurance is required again, but not a new medical certificate unless specifically requested." - DKV Insurance
Once your policy meets these criteria, it’s time to secure an updated certificate to complete your renewal process.
Getting Updated Policy Certificates
You can obtain your formal policy certificate through DKV's eCliente portal or by contacting customer support. Keep in mind, Spanish immigration authorities will not accept standard insurance cards - only the official certificate is valid.
"The certificate of health insurance (certificado de aseguramiento) is a document issued by the health insurance provider. It contains all the key characteristics that the visa officer will be checking." - Expatica
The certificate must be in Spanish, signed by an authorized DKV representative, and bear an official stamp. To ensure validity, it must be issued within three months of your renewal application and include proof of payment along with your passport or NIE for verification.
Adjusting Your Policy During Renewal
Renewal season is the perfect opportunity to reassess your health coverage and make changes that better align with your current needs. Here's how you can tweak your DKV policy for a smoother experience.
Switching Between DKV Plans
Need a plan that fits your lifestyle better? With DKV, you can switch to a plan that works for you. For example, you might move from a high-copayment option like DKV Integral Complet to the no-copayment Élite plan, or choose the flexible DKV Modular. To make this change, submit your written request by November 30 to ensure the new plan takes effect on January 1.
To request a change, email atencion.cliente@dkvseguros.es or reach out to your local branch via fax or mail. Include these details:
Your NIF/NIE number
Your policy or card number
A short explanation of the change you're requesting
If you're considering a more complex switch - like moving from a standard directory plan (e.g., DKV Integral) to a reimbursement-based plan like Mundisalud - call customer service at 959 894 456 to consult with an expert. Acting early ensures your new plan is processed in time, avoiding any interruptions in coverage.
Preventing Coverage Gaps
Once you've made your changes, double-check everything to avoid any hiccups. DKV policies automatically renew every 12 months, so if you don’t make any adjustments, your current plan will continue seamlessly for another year. However, if you're switching plans or providers, submit your changes by November 30 for policies ending on December 31.
Use the eCliente portal to stay on top of things - verify your policy status, update your bank details, and sign any necessary documents digitally. This ensures your coverage remains active.
If you're moving from another insurer, provide proof of your previous policy to skip waiting periods. Just make sure there’s no more than a 60-day gap between your old policy’s end date and your new DKV start date.
Online Tools for Renewal and Documents
Managing your DKV policy renewal has never been easier, thanks to digital tools that simplify the entire process. You can complete your renewal online through the eCliente portal or the Activa DKV app, both offering multilingual support.
Using the eCliente Portal
To access the eCliente Customer Area, log in using the DNI, NIE, or passport number you initially provided when applying for your policy. If your application was made with a passport but you now have an NIE, continue using your passport number unless you’ve officially updated your records with DKV. Make sure you have your medical card or policy number, date of birth, and the email address used during your application when registering.
Once logged in, navigate to "My Policies" to view your coverage details, invoices, and policy terms. You can also update banking information or switch from monthly to annual payments, which comes with a 7% discount. In the "documentation" section, you can digitally sign any pending documents. Note that a Spanish mobile number is required to receive verification codes for this process.
The Activa DKV app provides similar functionality, giving you access to your digital medical card and allowing you to handle authorizations directly from your smartphone. These tools make managing your policy and submitting documents quick and hassle-free.
Submitting Documents Online
Within the "My Policies" section, you can upload renewal forms, request travel assistance certificates, and download official documents needed for visa applications. For treatment authorizations at the start of your renewed policy year, upload your medical report (informe médico) and request slip (volante) either through the portal or by sending them via WhatsApp to +34 960 160 602.
If you wish to cancel your policy, send an email to atencion.cliente@dkvseguros.es with your NIF/NIE, policy number, and signature. Make sure to do this at least 30 days before the policy's expiration date.
Renewal Considerations for Expats
Age and Eligibility Requirements
DKV allows individuals to apply for policies up to the age of 75, which is a rare option in the Spanish health insurance market. As DKV Seguros explains, "At DKV, we have the highest age for taking out insurance on the market: up to the age of 75, in an individual modality". Once enrolled, there’s no upper age limit for renewing your policy. After maintaining individual coverage for three consecutive years, DKV guarantees lifelong renewals, regardless of your age or medical expenses during renewal. This assurance offers peace of mind for expats planning to reside in Spain long-term.
However, it’s worth noting that premiums will increase annually. These adjustments are tied to your age and rising healthcare costs, based on actuarial calculations.
Pre-Existing Conditions and Medical History
Pre-existing conditions - those you had before purchasing the policy - are typically excluded from coverage. In some instances, DKV may agree to cover these conditions, but only for an additional premium. This arrangement needs to be finalized either during your initial application or through specific policy changes later on.
When applying, it’s essential to provide complete and accurate information in your health questionnaire. Omitting details about your medical history can lead to denied claims or even cancellation of your policy. If you’re transferring from another Spanish insurer, pre-existing conditions excluded under your previous policy will usually remain excluded. However, standard waiting periods for other services may be waived.
Conclusion
Renewing your DKV health insurance on time is essential to maintaining both your coverage and your legal status in Spain. Missing the November 30 deadline automatically results in being charged the full year's premium. For expats relying on their policy for visa or residency compliance, even a brief lapse in coverage could put their legal standing at risk.
The good news? DKV makes the renewal process hassle-free. Policies renew automatically each year, so you don’t have to worry about losing coverage due to administrative errors. Plus, you can use DKV’s digital tools to quickly obtain updated insurance certificates in Spanish, which are often required for visa applications. As long as you renew on time, your current policy ensures full access to the coverage you need.
If you’re looking to adjust your policy, you’ll need to submit your request in writing at least one month before the renewal date. Also, keep in mind that you can save money by choosing specific payment options: annual payments come with a 7% discount, while quarterly payments offer a 2.8% discount. For any questions about visa requirements or policy details, DKV’s English-speaking support team is available to assist.
FAQs
What should I do if I miss the renewal deadline for my DKV health insurance?
If you miss the renewal deadline for your DKV health insurance, your coverage could lapse, leaving you uninsured. This would mean having to apply for a new policy to regain your health insurance benefits.
To ensure continuous coverage, make sure to renew your policy on time. If the deadline has already passed, contact DKV’s customer support immediately for assistance and advice on how to proceed.
How can I update my details or change my plan during renewal?
To make changes to your personal details or switch plans during renewal, simply log into your DKV customer account. Once inside, you can update essential information like your address or payment details and submit requests to adjust your coverage.
Thinking about changing your plan? Follow the instructions outlined in your account or get in touch with DKV's customer support team. They’re ready to provide guidance and help ensure your policy aligns with your needs.
Why is it crucial for expats in Spain to keep their health insurance active?
Maintaining active health insurance as an expat in Spain is crucial for a couple of key reasons. For starters, it helps you meet legal residency requirements, which often demand continuous health coverage. Beyond that, it ensures you have access to timely medical care, offering peace of mind if unexpected health issues arise.
If your coverage lapses, you could face challenges like delays in reapplying or gaps in your protection when you need it most. Staying insured not only keeps your healthcare uninterrupted but also spares you from avoidable stress.