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Sanitas vs. DKV : Which Spanish Health Insurance Is Best for Expats?

Relocating to Spain as an expat involves a fair bit of planning, and health insurance is one of the most crucial steps — especially if you're applying for a Spanish residency visa, such as a non-lucrative visa (NLV), student visa, or Golden Visa. Two of the top providers in the Spanish private health insurance market are Sanitas and DKV.

Both companies offer robust healthcare plans tailored for expats, but when it comes to visa requirements, transparency, and expat-friendly services, DKV comes out ahead. In this post, we’ll explore how these providers stack up — and why DKV's visa-compliant policy is the best in Spain.



Compare Sanitas insurance to DKV insurance
Sanitas vs. DKV Compare


Overview: Sanitas vs DKV


Sanitas

Sanitas is part of the global Bupa Group and is well-known for its high-quality medical network and facilities. It offers a variety of private health insurance plans tailored for individuals, families, and companies. Sanitas is especially strong in metropolitan areas and operates many of its own hospitals and clinics.

DKV

DKV Seguros is part of Munich Health Group and has over 50 years of experience in Spain. It is known for its environmental focus, digital tools, and customer service — especially for expats. DKV partners with over 1,000 healthcare centers and 29,000 professionals across Spain.


Key Comparison: DKV vs. Sanitas

Feature

DKV

Sanitas

Visa-Compliant Policy

✅ Yes – Fully certified for Spanish residency visas

⚠️ Yes, but must request specific policy

100% Medical Coverage

✅ Yes – Full coverage with no co-payments

✅ Available, but depends on plan

Waiting Period Waiver

✅ Waived for visa applicants

⚠️ Often applies waiting periods

Digital Services

✅ Excellent app & telemedicine

✅ Strong app, limited in English

English-Speaking Support

✅ Dedicated expat support

⚠️ Available but less structured

Renewability for Residency Renewal

✅ Renewable and valid long-term

✅ Renewable, sometimes restrictions

Ease of Getting Insurance Certificate

✅ Fast digital process

⚠️ Can be slower and require follow-ups

Environmental Commitment

✅ Carbon neutral company

❌ Not a focus area

Why DKV’s Visa Policy Is the Best in Spain


When applying for a Spanish visa, consulates require that your health insurance policy meets very specific conditions:


  • No co-payments (“sin copagos”)

  • No waiting periods

  • Full coverage in Spain

  • No deductibles

  • Must include hospitalization

  • Must be valid for at least one year


✅ DKV Checks Every Box — Seamlessly


DKV’s visa policy is designed specifically for expats and guarantees 100% compliance with Spanish immigration authorities. Unlike some other insurers where you must request a visa-compliant policy and worry about fine print, DKV’s visa insurance product is built with visa approval in mind.

Here’s why it's the gold standard:


✔️ No Co-Payments or Hidden Costs

DKV offers full coverage policies with no co-payments, so you won’t be surprised by unexpected out-of-pocket expenses at the clinic.

✔️ Waived Waiting Periods

Visa applicants get immediate access to services — no waiting 6–8 months for surgeries, specialist visits, or diagnostic tests.

✔️ Fast and Easy Application Process


With DKV, you can complete the entire application online, and get your insurance certificate for the consulate within 24–48 hours. Everything is in English, and their agents understand what Spanish embassies require.


Real-Life Scenario: Applying for a Non-Lucrative Visa

Many expats have reported issues with Sanitas policies when applying for the non-lucrative visa. Some embassies reject policies with:


  • Clauses about coverage limitations

  • Co-payment details hidden in fine print

  • Ambiguous waiting period terms


DKV, on the other hand, has built a bulletproof reputation for its reliability in visa approvals. The company even works with relocation agencies and immigration lawyers who trust and recommend DKV because it eliminates bureaucratic headaches.


Additional Benefits of Choosing DKV


  • English-speaking doctors available

  • Digital health services like video consultations

  • Global travel assistance

  • Mental health coverage

  • Excellent customer service tailored to international residents


Final Verdict: DKV Wins for Expats

While both Sanitas and DKV are excellent providers, DKV’s dedicated approach to visa compliance, transparency, and digital ease of access make it the best choice for expats moving to Spain.

If you're in the process of applying for a Spanish residency visa, don’t risk your application with the wrong insurance provider. Go with the insurer that’s trusted by thousands of expats and approved by consulates across Spain.

➡️ Get your visa-compliant insurance from DKV today:👉 https://www.dkvinsurance.com/dkv-insurance-expats


 
 
 
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