Hi all, my name is Ron, I have just joined the Forum. I was from the UK originally but left for South Africa where I lived for 30 years before returning to the UK 18 months ago. Needless to say England is not for me or my wife. We visited Alicante in November & just fell in love with it as I am sure you all are. We are coming again in early June to decide which part of Alicante to live, & to secure long term rental accommodation. The thing that worries me the most is Healthcare & the cost of same. I am 72, born in England so I have all NHS benefits, my wife is non EU & 52 & of course I will pay for a healthcare plan for her privately.
I need to know from retired British Expats living in Spain, am I covered for all medical costs if I live in Spain permanently, or what will it cost me. Thank you.

Hi Ron…

Welcome.

Honestly think your best bet is to talk to International pensions office, Newcastle on this matter. try talking to the people on this number 0191-218-7777 or
0191 218 1999 (Monday to Friday 8am-5pm).

You will have to quote your N.I. no and one or two security questions bus you might well find that your wife is covered for health benefits out here on the strength of your contributions, if you name her as a dependent on Form S1 which Newcastle will provide on request.

Hope this helps…

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Ron - totally agree with Foxbat - talk to the experts as it is a fast changing picture at the moment.

The UK in Spain site has just issued this update:
http://ukinspain.fco.gov.uk/en/help-for-british-nationals/living-in-spain/pensions-benefits/healthcare/healthcare-updates

Thanks Guys for what is good advice, will do as you say & report back to the Forum on the result which may assist others.
Cheers Ron

Hi Ron,

BUPA International may be worth contacting.

Good luck & please let us know how you go.

Andrea

It is exactly as foxbat said. I phoned NHS & I am covered 100% for all medical costs in the same way as Spanish retired persons are, & even better, my wife who is Non European is also covered as my dependent. Cannot thank you enough fellow members for your help .
We are flying to Alicante on the 29th of May & hopefully we will find our Apartment & we can take our place in the sun & enjoy our retirement,  we cannot wait.
Cheers Ron

Ron,
Hopefully Newcastle have sent you the relevant paperwork. In my case it was partially completed by the NHS office, but be sure when completing the form that your wife’s details are included on the Form S1 as a dependent. Until you get the paperwork sorted out with the Spanish authorities if you need access to med services out here you can use your EHIC cards.

Good luck with the move, its warming up here quite rapidly…

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