If you are applying for a long-stay visa, renewing your residency permit, or processing your NIE or TIE in Spain, there is a good chance you have already seen «medical certificate of good health» on the list of required documents. And if you are outside Spain — or simply do not have time to visit a clinic in person — your first question is probably: how do I get one?
This guide explains exactly what the certificate is, why Spanish consulates and immigration offices require it, and how to obtain it entirely online, from anywhere in the world.
What Is a Medical Certificate of Good Health?
A medical certificate of good health is an official document issued and signed by a licensed doctor that confirms you do not have any medical condition that could pose a risk to public health or be incompatible with residing in the requested territory.
It is not a full medical history or a diagnosis. It is a formal medical declaration used for administrative and immigration purposes, and it is one of the standard documents required by Spanish consulates and immigration offices when processing visa and residency applications.
Who Needs a Medical Certificate for Spain?
The medical certificate of good health is commonly required in the following situations:
- Long-stay visa applications to live in Spain
- Residency permit renewals and extensions
- NIE processing (Número de Identidad de Extranjero — Spain’s foreigner identification number)
- TIE applications (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero — Foreigner Identity Card)
- CUE certificate (Certificado de Unión Europea — for EU citizens residing in Spain)
- University or academic enrollment that requires proof of good health
- Health insurance or housing providers that request medical documentation
If you are unsure whether your specific application requires one, the most reliable way to confirm is to check directly with the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country, or with the relevant immigration office in Spain.
What Makes a Medical Certificate Valid in Spain?
Not every medical certificate will be accepted for Spanish visa and residency purposes. To be valid, the certificate must meet the following requirements:
Issued by a doctor licensed in Spain The certificate must be signed by a doctor with an active medical license (número de colegiado) in Spain. This is the key requirement that makes it legally valid before the Spanish administration.
Compliant with the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) The IHR 2005 is the international framework established by the World Health Organization that governs health requirements in the context of international travel and migration. A certificate issued by a licensed doctor in Spain automatically meets this standard — you do not need to request any additional validation.
Written in Spanish The certificate must be issued in Spanish to be valid before Spanish administrative bodies. This means it does not require a sworn translation or notarization, which simplifies the process considerably.
No apostille required Because the certificate is issued directly by a licensed doctor in Spain and written in Spanish, it does not need to be apostilled (Hague Convention stamp). It is immediately valid as issued.
Do I Need to Be in Spain to Get the Certificate?
No. The consultation is entirely virtual, which means you can obtain your medical certificate from anywhere in the world. This is particularly useful if you are still in your home country and need the certificate as part of your visa application before travelling to Spain.
How to Get Your Medical Certificate Online with mediQuo
The process is straightforward and can be completed entirely from home:
Step 1 — Book your consultation Choose a date and time that works for you through the mediQuo platform. The total cost is €55, with no hidden fees. This covers the video consultation with the doctor, the medical assessment, and the official certificate.
Step 2 — Complete the pre-consultation medical questionnaire Before your appointment, you will receive a short health questionnaire. If you have recent medical reports or health documents, you can attach them. This helps the doctor review your case in advance and conduct a more thorough assessment.
Step 3 — Speak with a licensed doctor by video call Connect with a doctor licensed in Spain via a private, encrypted video call. You can choose to have the consultation in English or Spanish — whichever you prefer. The doctor will assess your case and answer any questions you may have.
Step 4 — Receive your certificate by email Once the medical assessment is complete and approved, you will receive your official medical certificate directly in your inbox. In most cases, delivery takes place within 24 hours of the consultation. The certificate is ready to download, print, or share as needed.
Please note: The issuance of the certificate is subject to medical assessment. The doctor will evaluate each case individually before proceeding with the certificate.
Is the Certificate Accepted at My Consulate or Embassy?
Certificates issued through mediQuo are signed by doctors licensed in Spain and comply with the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005). They are accepted across Spain and recognised by consulates, embassies, and BLS offices worldwide for visa and residency applications.
If you have specific doubts about your consulate’s requirements, we recommend verifying them directly before booking your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the certificate need to be translated into English or another language? No. The certificate is issued in Spanish, which is the language required by the Spanish administration. It does not need a sworn translation or notarization to be submitted to consulates or embassies processing Spanish visas.
Does it need an apostille? No. Because it is issued directly by a licensed doctor in Spain, no apostille is required.
Can I have the consultation in English? Yes. mediQuo’s medical team includes both English-speaking and Spanish-speaking doctors. You can choose your preferred language for the consultation. The certificate itself will always be issued in Spanish, as required by Spanish law.
How long does it take to receive the certificate? In most cases, you will receive your certificate within 24 hours of your video consultation, subject to a favourable medical assessment. In urgent cases, the process can be even faster.
How much does it cost? The total cost is €55. This includes the online consultation, the medical assessment, and the official certificate. No hidden fees.
What documents should I prepare before the consultation? You will need to complete a short medical questionnaire before the appointment. If you have any recent medical reports or health records, you are welcome to attach them — this helps the doctor conduct a more thorough assessment.
Ready to Get Your Certificate?
If you have a visa, NIE, TIE or residency application coming up and need a medical certificate of good health, book your online consultation now. Licensed doctors in Spain, available in English and Spanish, with delivery within 24 hours subject to medical assessment.
Book your consultation — €55 · Certificate within 24 hours subject to medical assessment
This article is for informational purposes only. For specific requirements regarding your application, please check directly with the relevant consulate, embassy, or immigration office.
