Can You Access Fertility Treatment or IVF in Spain as a Foreigner?

Spain is one of Europe’s top destinations for fertility treatment. With world-class clinics, liberal reproductive laws, and high success rates, it’s no wonder that many foreigners — both residents and non-residents — consider starting or growing their families here. But if you're an expat or travelling from abroad, how accessible is IVF or other fertility support in Spain? Here's what you need to know about costs, legal access, public vs private treatment, and what your options are as a foreigner.

Spain’s fertility laws are among the most inclusive in Europe

Unlike many countries, Spain legally allows fertility treatment for a wide range of individuals, including:

• Single women
• Same-sex female couples
• Heterosexual couples (married or not)
• Foreign nationals (residents and non-residents)

There is no legal requirement to be a Spanish citizen or resident to access private fertility services, which makes Spain a major hub for international fertility tourism — especially for egg donation, reciprocal IVF (ROPA), and embryo adoption.

Can expats access public fertility treatment in Spain?

If you are legally resident in Spain and registered with the public healthcare system (SNS), you may be eligible for fertility treatment under the state system. However, there are strict criteria:

• You must be under the age of 40 for IVF (and under 38 for artificial insemination)
• You must not already have children
• You must be referred by your GP after 6–12 months of unsuccessful conception attempts

Waiting lists can range from 6 months to over a year, depending on your region. For this reason, many expats choose to go private — especially those dealing with age concerns, previous IVF failures, or complex fertility issues.

How does private fertility care work in Spain?

Spain has a large network of internationally accredited fertility clinics offering the latest techniques in assisted reproduction. Some of the most common private services include:

• IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)
• IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
• Egg donation (anonymous in Spain)
• Embryo adoption
• Genetic screening (PGT-A, PGT-M)
• ROPA (shared motherhood for lesbian couples)

You don’t need to be a resident to access private treatment. Many clinics cater specifically to international patients and offer English-speaking staff, dedicated interpreters, and medical tourism packages that include hotel stays and transport.

How much does IVF cost in Spain?

Private IVF in Spain is considered affordable compared to other Western countries. Typical price ranges:

• Standard IVF: €3,500–€6,000 per cycle
• IVF with egg donation: €5,500–€10,000
• ROPA method: €4,000–€6,500
• Embryo adoption: €1,700–€3,500

Note that medication, pre-treatment testing, and cryopreservation (freezing embryos) may come with additional costs.

Are fertility treatments covered by private health insurance?

Most basic private plans in Spain do not include full fertility treatment, but some higher-tier plans or optional add-ons may cover:

• Initial gynaecological consultations
• Diagnostic testing (hormone panels, ultrasounds, semen analysis)
• Prescriptions for hormone medication
• Referrals to fertility clinics

If you plan to pursue IVF or other procedures privately, choosing a health insurance policy that includes comprehensive gynaecological and diagnostic support can reduce your upfront costs significantly.

What documents do I need as a foreigner?

If you’re travelling to Spain for treatment, most clinics will ask for:

• Passport or national ID
• Basic medical history
• Blood test results (from home or done locally)
• Signed informed consent forms (often in English)

Most clinics will not require a visa for treatment itself, but you may need proof of travel health insurance for entry, especially if you’re coming from outside the EU.

Spain offers more than sunshine — it offers real hope

For expats living in Spain and international visitors alike, the country offers world-class fertility care with inclusive laws, excellent clinics, and success rates that rival any in Europe. Whether you’re beginning your fertility journey or exploring your final options, Spain is a place where access and compassion come together.

Planning fertility treatment in Spain? Our health insurance plans can help cover gynaecology visits, diagnostic tests, and ongoing care during your journey. Compare our policies at HealthPlanSpain.com and speak to us about the coverage options available to you.

Sources:

Fertility treatment in Spain – EFA

Spanish Ministry of Health

IVI Fertility Spain (English site)

Reproducción Asistida ORG