S1 form for pensioners

An Italian pensioner who moves to Spain may receive Spanish public healthcare on the same terms as persons insured in Spain, with the costs borne by Italy, by means of the S1 form. The Firm assists the pensioner with the application in Italy and with registration in Spain.

What it is

The S1 form is the document provided for by Regulations (EC) 883/2004 and 987/2009 which certifies the entitlement to healthcare of the holder of an Italian pension resident in another Member State. A pensioner who has no entitlement of their own to healthcare in Spain receives the benefits of the Spanish public health system, while the related costs are borne by Italy.

Who issues the form in Italy

• for persons who transferred their residence abroad after 1980, the local health authority (Azienda sanitaria locale) of their last residence in Italy;
• for persons who transferred their residence abroad before 1980, the Ministry of Health.

AIRE registration does not, in itself, change the competent body.

Registration in Spain

• The S1 form is registered with the Instituto Nacional de la Seguridad Social (INSS), also electronically, with an identity document or NIE, the original S1 form and proof of residence.
• The health card is then applied for from the health service of the autonomous community of residence, in accordance with the arrangements it has established.
• Dependent and cohabiting family members are covered if indicated on the form or registered separately.

S1 form and EU registration certificate

For the purposes of the registration certificate as a citizen of the Union, a pensioner who is not working must show that they have sufficient resources and health insurance. The S1 form satisfies the health insurance requirement, but does not replace proof of financial resources.

Required documentation

• AIRE registration or application for registration.
• Indication of the last residence in Italy.
• Civil status and details of dependent family members.
• Up-to-date certificado de empadronamiento.

Timescales and costs

Timescales depend on the Italian body issuing the form and on the INSS. The Firm issues a detailed, no-obligation quote.

Immigration procedures in Spain

Sources: Regulation (EC) 883/2004, arts. 24 and 25 · Regulation (EC) 987/2009, art. 24 · Real Decreto 240/2007, art. 7 · Orden PRE/1490/2012 · Ministry of Health, healthcare for holders of an Italian pension · Seguridad Social, registration of the S1 form. Information only, updated September 2026.