What you need to know about having a baby in Spain
Information about the pregnancy process in Spain, how to get health insurance, find out about your benefits and rights, and help you get the best prenatal and postnatal care
Those who are not entitled to social assistance have the option of receiving private assistance, for which a monthly private insurance fee must be paid.
It can seem a bit overwhelming to get pregnant in Spain, especially if you are not from here, don't know the medical system or don't speak the language and in addition to the usual problems of pregnancy have to deal with the legal and logistical aspects as well.
Unlike a lot of things in Spain when it comes to conceiving and having a child, things usually go well, especially if you've done a little research beforehand.
The first thing to check as soon as you find out you are pregnant ishealth plan. Almost all major health insurance companies in Spain have an 8 month cut-off period for childbirth, which means that if you don't already have health insurance, when you find out you're pregnant that's probably the next thing to do! That being said, there are some companies that do not have this exclusion. Check out our Semi-Private Health Insurance Guide - Pregnancy section here.
For Europeans bAsianmaternity benefits forunplanned pregnancyYou are indeedcovered by a CESD(European Health Card) in any public health facility in Spain; Howeverplanned birthnot covered by your EHIC (expected to go home)! Check with your social security and/or health insurance company to make sure you are fully covered. EITHERSpanish social security systemIt applies to all Spanish nationals residing and working in Spain, as well as to foreigners with a residence permit in Spain. Spanish citizens not residing in Spain are also covered under certain circumstances; As a rule, the protection also extends to the entire family of the insured person.
As for hospitals in Spain, there are state social security hospitals and private clinics throughout the country. Those who are not entitled to social assistance have the option of receiving private assistance, for which a monthly private insurance fee must be paid. If you decide to get private health insurance and you know you want to conceive, you should get the insurance and apply for it at least ten months before you get pregnant to keep things simple.
There are a few places to checkPrivate health insurance. However, save your time and energy by researching all the companies and get access to the only unbiased expat insurance quote system covering the leading private health insurers in Spain: theHealth insurance advice system for expatriates in Spain(yes, we built it for you).
When it comes to finding onedoctor in SpainThere are many great Obstetricians in Spain and the best way to find a trustworthy and credible one is through word of mouth. Talk to people you trust, other mothers who have had children, and ask them to refer you to a doctor. You can also ask your GP for some names. When the time comes for the baby to be born and your Spanish isn't necessarily good, it's a good idea to bring someone to the hospital who is fluent in the language, just in case. However, most regions of Spain offer translation services in hospitals and clinics.
After the baby was born...
Registration of a birth
Births must be registered at the local registry office (Registro Civil) within eight days (up to 30 days are accepted). It is the parent's responsibility to ensure this is done and must be done personally by a parent or immediate family member. In some cases, the hospital, clinic or midwife can register the birth.
Birth registration includes:
- newborn name
- Date, time and place of birth. In the case of multiple births, where the exact time of the individual newborns is not known, the order of birth must be given, otherwise it cannot be determined.
- newborn sex
- Parents if the relationship is legally recognized
- The number associated with the birth or verification record
- login time
Birth certificates must state whether the child is legitimate or illegitimate. Children are considered legitimate if they were born up to 180 days after the marriage of the parents or up to 300 days after the divorce, annulment of the marriage or death of the father.
How to register a child born in a marriage
A parent must bring the following to the registry office:
- Medical birth certificate (this yellow form is provided by the hospital where the birth took place)
- NO(Foreign Identification Code) of the parents
- Libro de Familia (Family Book if available) or certified and translated marriage certificate
How do I register an illegitimate child?
In this case, the declaration of both parents is required and the father and mother must register the birth personally with the following documents:
- Medical record of delivery (the yellow form is provided by the hospital where the delivery took place)
- NEVER the parents
- Information on the marital status of the mother.
- In the case of a previous marriage, the legal presumption of paternity must be waived by presenting a marriage certificate and a certificate of separation or divorce (enclosed). In the event of separation, two witnesses must accompany the parents to the registry office.
Spain has a very good maternity leave system, giving the mother 16 weeks of paid leave.
It is important to note that postnatal care is limited in most Spanish hospitals and the mother is usually discharged around 48 hours after delivery unless complications arise. It's a good idea to get help at home for the first few weeks if possible, either from a nurse, caregiver, or even a friend or family member if possible.
Maternity and paternity leave in Spain
Spain has a very good maternity leave system, giving the mother 16 weeks of paid leave. In the case of multiple births, this period is extended to 2 additional weeks for each newborn. The mother's job must be secured after her return. Fathers are entitled to 15 days paternity leave (depending on position). In 2015, however, this period will be extended to 30 days. If there are complications for the baby or the mother, the father is entitled to longer leave.
Financial support for parents in Spain
In order to encourage more mothers to have children in Spain, the Spanish government has introduced the "Check bebe" program. Since April 2008, mothers who are legally resident in Spain (ie paying their taxes) are entitled to a €2,500 government check for the birth or adoption of each newborn baby. For families with three or more children and single parents, the 2,500 euros increase to 3,500 euros. For more information about this system and the benefits, seethis AEATS page
Possible resources and possible maternity services:
Check out some websites that can help you connect with other moms-to-be and get more feedback and advice:
- A US Registered Nurse, Certified Doula, and Certified Midwifery Attendant, Robyn offers pregnancy and childbirth classes and doula services (private childbirth preparation, home follow-up care, and possible labor support) in and around Seville. Have a look at their website:www.luzyvida.eu
- www.mybabyspain.com/healthcare-spain.php
- www.midwiferytoday.com/international/Spain.asp
- www.nacerencasa.org
Useful phrases during pregnancy: Midwife:midwife / midwifeEpidural:epidural (emphasis on "on")Scan:sonographyDepartment of maternity examinations in the hospital:obstetricsgive birthto give birth (lit. "to give light")Birthday:the birthX months pregnant:x months pregnantFor breastfeeding:breastfeed
Questions?
try thoseFacebook page for expats from Spainor comment below (you need to login)
Related to Pregnant in Spain!, What you should know about having a baby in Spain…
Comments
Add a comment
Sign in to post a comment…
FAQs
Can a foreigner give birth in Spain? ›
The Spanish laws state that pregnant foreign women, living in Spain temporarily or permanently, have the right to health care during their pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum. Among the services provided there are those, which are provided in the list of the national health services.
How long do you have to work in Spain to get maternity leave? ›If you are 21 to 26 years old, then you must be making contributions to social security for at least 90 days during the past 7 years, or 180 days during your entire working life. If you are over 26 years old, 180 days during the past 7 years or at least 360 days during your working life.
Do you get money for having a baby in Spain? ›Maternity and Paternity leave Spain
Anyone contributing to the social security system benefits from paid maternity/paternity leave and child benefits. Maternity benefits include medical, prenatal, and postnatal care for pregnant women. Mothers also receive 100% of statutory base pay for 16 weeks of pregnancy leave.
Permiso de Maternidad is the standard maternity leave in Spain that entitles women to a 16-week period away from work. This rises to 18 weeks for twins and 20 weeks in the case of triplets. For children with disabilities there is an additional two weeks.
What happens if a foreigner gives birth in Spain? ›As a general rule, a child born in Spain to foreign parents adopts the nationality of his parents. This is the case in a large number of cases. However, there are important exceptions. It is very likely that the country from which the parents originate does not recognize the nationality of children who are born abroad.
What happens if a tourist gives birth in Spain? ›So, the first thing you should do is go to the Civil Registry (in Spain), where you will be allowed to apply for the Spanish nationality for the baby as long as you provide: Empadronamiento certificate, proving that the newborn lives with her parents at the same address. Birth certificate of the baby.
How much does pregnancy cost in Spain? ›The average cost of Childbirth in Spain ranges between $9700 and $11900.
What is the paternity pay in Spain? ›An employee on paternity leave in Spain is paid 100% of their salary—as long as they have made the appropriate contributions to the Instituto Nacional de la Seguridad Social, Spain's social security agency.
Is maternity care free in Spain? ›If you're a legal resident working in Spain, you're already paying for Spanish health insurance through social security contributions. Spanish public healthcare covers a number of maternity services. However, only private healthcare insurance covers giving birth in Spain's private facilities.
How much does an American have to pay to have a baby? ›But one 2013 study by the the advocacy group Childbirth Connection found that, on average, hospitals charged $32,093 for an uncomplicated vaginal birth and newborn care, and $51,125 for a standard caesarean section and newborn care.
Which country gives money for childbirth? ›
Russian President Vladimir Putin restored an award first introduced by Soviet leader Joseph Stalin that's designed to encourage women to have more children, The Moscow Times reported. The title will be awarded to women who give birth to 10 or more children.
Can you fly to Spain pregnant? ›Air travel is generally considered safe in uncomplicated pregnancy. However, it is important to discuss your fitness to fly with your GP, practice nurse, midwife or obstetrician before departure.
What happens if you get pregnant abroad? ›You will need to have the same tests and scans you would in your home country. Your pregnancy will progress in the same way, regardless of where you are living and you will experience the same physical changes and discomforts.
Do foreigners get maternity leave? ›Yes, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria.
What happens if you are American and give birth in another country? ›If you are a U.S. citizen (or non-citizen national) and have a child overseas, you should report their birth at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate as soon as possible so that a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) can be issued as an official record of the child's claim to U.S. citizenship or nationality.
Which country gives free citizenship by birth? ›Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, Canada, Chad, Chile, Cuba, Dominica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Fiji, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Jamaica, Lesotho, Mexico, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Uruguay and Venezuela.
Can you get citizenship by having a baby? ›Birthright citizenship is given only to a child born on U.S. soil. After coming of age (21 years in the U.S.), your child may submit an Alien Relative Petition to give you an opportunity to receive a Green Card.
Does Spain give citizenship at birth? ›The most common way of becoming a citizen of Spain is by right of birth. Provided that you have been born in Spain and your parents are Spanish, you directly become a national of the Spanish territory. Nevertheless, the Civil Code accepts other procedures that can enable you, as a foreigner, to get Spanish citizenship.
Can I choose C section in Spain? ›You can ask for this anywhere and advocate for it at any hospital you'll be birthing at. The more women demand this type of care as standard when it comes to Cesareans, the sooner this will come to be a reality.
Where is the best place to give birth in Spain? ›The majority of the top hospitals in Spain are concentrated around Madrid and Barcelona. As of 2021, Barcelona's Hospital Clínic de Barcelona came out on top. Number 2 is Madrid's Hospital Universitario La Paz, which is known for its obstetrics gynaecology, and paediatrics departments, among others.
Do you have to pay for pregnancy in USA? ›
Health insurers must cover maternity care and childbirth. This is one of the 10 essential health benefits required by the Affordable Care Act.
How much is child benefit in Spain? ›Single parents with children under the age of 18 will get a tax-free payment of €341 per year, divided into two payments if they earn under €12,313 per year. This threshold rises to €13,747 if you have two children and €18,532 if you have three children.
Where does the US rank in maternity leave? ›U.S. ranks worst out of 40 countries for paid maternity leave.
What country has the longest paid maternity leave? ›...
Top 10 countries for maternity leave:
- Bosnia and Herzegovina – 52 weeks.
- Montenegro – 52 weeks.
- Albania – 52 weeks.
- Ireland – 42 weeks.
- Macedonia – 39 weeks.
- Norway – 35+ weeks.
The average maternity leave in the US is 10 weeks, paid or unpaid. 82% of Americans want some form of a federal paid maternity leave policy.
Do men get full pay on paternity? ›Employers must pay employees on paternity leave paid whatever is the lower of the standard rate (visit the government pages for the current rate), or 90% of your average pre-tax weekly earning. You can receive paternity pay for up to two consecutive weeks if you are eligible.
What is high risk pregnancy in Spain? ›In Spain, high-risk pregnancy is called embarazo de alto riesgo. A few examples of factors for high-risk pregnancies are advanced maternal age (35 or older for a first pregnancy), lifestyle choices like drug or alcohol abuse, obesity or pregnancy history, including prior miscarriages.
What is the cheapest way to give birth? ›Birth center births and home births are typically less expensive than hospital births,4 because there are no high-risk procedures done; only low-risk parents are eligible. So you save money by not having to pay for those procedures outright, or for any fees involved in the event you'd need them.
Why is having a baby so expensive in the US? ›It wasn't that the procedures or technologies involved in childbirth became that much more expensive over time. The reason for the increase, according to the study authors, is the rise in high deductibles—the lump sums that insurance companies make their customers pay before the companies will kick in any money.
Where is the cheapest place to give birth in USA? ›You look at the end states that are less expensive like New Mexico, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, those are states that aren't as costly to live in as the other states.” Regardless of the state, VinZant believes having a child comes at a financially high price for parents in America.
What is the $5,000 baby bonus? ›
The $5000 figure would be equivalent to the amount in superannuation guarantee contributions a person on a $60,000 salary would receive, ASFA says, adding that such a measure could benefit up to 300,000 women.
Which country is best for birth in Europe? ›First Place: Poland – Overall Score 7.05
Recognised as the best place to give birth worldwide is Poland. According to the research, Poland is second for out-of-pocket health expenditure and financing, meaning that people generally pay less for healthcare.
...
If you are pregnant, it is not recommended to travel to parts of the world where the Zika virus is present, such as parts of:
- South and Central America.
- the Caribbean.
- the Pacific islands.
- Africa.
- Asia.
Generally, air travel before 36 weeks of pregnancy is considered safe for people who aren't dealing with any pregnancy problems. Still, if you're pregnant, it's a good idea to talk with your health care provider before you fly.
How many months pregnant can you fly overseas? ›Most airlines won't let you fly beyond 28 weeks of pregnancy. Ask your airline or cruise line about any rules or restrictions that could affect you while in transit.
Can you be deported if you are pregnant? ›However, ICE stated that in the case of a pregnant woman in the third trimester, it will generally only use detention in “extraordinary circumstances.” The new policy was implemented in accord with the requirements of President Trump's Executive Order 13768, which requires that the immigration laws be enforced against ...
Does international insurance cover pregnancy? ›Pregnancy and Visitors Medical Insurance
Typically, international health insurance plans are designed to provide coverage for unforeseen illness, injuries and accidents while traveling. Most travel medical insurance plans do not cover maternity, pregnancy, or childbirth.
Since jus sanguinis is the far more common rule around the globe, most babies born on a flight over international waters or foreign airspace will likely wind up taking the citizenship of its parents.
Do Americans get paid for maternity leave? ›Oftentimes, maternity leave is about 12 weeks long — that is, if you're eligible for it (and many people in the U.S. aren't). Through the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), the federal government guarantees 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for the birth of a newborn or adopting a child.
Why is there no maternity leave in US? ›One reason is that the "USis the only advanced country that provides no public support to new parents." The US does not have a federal paid maternity and family leave act. Some states, however, include paid leave legislation for family members.
Has the US ever had paid maternity leave? ›
The fight to provide U.S. parents with paid leave, now more than 100 years old, has stalled yet again. Despite widespread public support and strong evidence of its mental and physical health benefits, the United States remains one of just six countries worldwide that do not offer paid parental leave.
How much does it cost to give birth in Spain? ›The average cost of Childbirth in Spain ranges between $9700 and $11900. The offers include a consultation with a gynecologist, an individual chamber, and childbirth.
Which European country gives citizenship by birth? ›No. | Country |
---|---|
1 | United Kingdom |
2 | Germany |
3 | Greece |
4 | Ireland |
If you are a U.S. citizen (or non-citizen national) and have a child overseas, you should report their birth at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate as soon as possible so that a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) can be issued as an official record of the child's claim to U.S. citizenship or nationality.
What is the average age to have a baby in Spain? ›Citizenship is automatically granted to children born in Spain who have at least one Spanish parent. If neither parent is a Spanish citizen, children born in Spain to legal residents can obtain citizenship after one year.
Which country gives fastest citizenship in Europe? ›Malta. Malta has one of the speediest routes to citizenship of the country and by extension the EU, with a fast-track program enabling citizenship within one year in return for an investment of at least 750,000 Euros into government programs, government bonds or donation to an approved organisation.
Which European country is hardest to get citizenship? ›Liechtenstein. Liechtenstein is one of the smallest and wealthiest countries in Europe. The principality, which is located between Austria and Switzerland, has a population of just over 37,000. The country's citizenship requirements are some of the most stringent in the world.
Which country is easiest to get U.S. citizenship? ›- Malta.
- Antigua and Barbuda.
- St. Kitts and Nevis.
- Turkey.
Bolivia is among the few nations in the World that allows you to become a citizen after marrying and living there for two years. Individuals who've already lived in Bolivia legally for three years in a row could apply for Citizenship.
Does any child born in USA get citizenship? ›
Amendment XIV, Section 1, Clause 1 of the U.S. Constitution directs that all persons born in the United States are U.S. citizens. This is the case regardless of the tax or immigration status of a person's parents.
Are babies automatically citizens when born in another country? ›A person born abroad in wedlock to two U.S. citizen parents acquires U.S. citizenship at birth under section 301(c) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), if at least one of the parents had a residence in the United States or one of its outlying possessions prior to the person's birth.
What is the new rule for U.S. citizenship by birth? ›If one parent is a U.S. citizen and the other parent is a U.S. national, the child is a citizen, if the U.S. citizen parent has lived in the U.S. for a continuous period of at least one year prior to the child's birth.
Can a baby be born with dual citizenship? ›Persons may have dual nationality by automatic operation of different laws rather than by choice. For example, a child born in a foreign country to U.S. national parents may be both a U.S. national and a national of the country of birth.