TSI (Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual)
The Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual, commonly called TSI or simply tarjeta sanitaria, is your personal health card that gives you access to the Spanish public healthcare system (Sistema Nacional de Salud). It carries your NUSS (social security number) and is issued by the health service of your autonomous community.
What it gives you access to
With your tarjeta sanitaria, you can visit your assigned GP (Médico de Cabecera) at your local Centro de Salud, receive specialist referrals, access hospital care, and get prescriptions at reduced prices. The card is linked to your registered Centro de Salud, which is determined by your empadronamiento address.
How to get one
You visit your local Centro de Salud with your NIE or TIE, your NUSS (or the document showing your Seguridad Social registration), and your volante or certificado de empadronamiento. The centre registers you, assigns you a GP, and issues your tarjeta sanitaria. In some regions, a temporary card is provided immediately and the permanent plastic card arrives by post within a few weeks.
Tarjeta Sanitaria versus EHIC
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC, or TSE in Spain) provides temporary healthcare coverage for EU citizens visiting another EU country. It is not a replacement for the tarjeta sanitaria. If you live in Spain as a resident, you need a tarjeta sanitaria for ongoing healthcare access. The EHIC is for temporary stays abroad, such as holidays or short business trips to other EU countries.
What if I do not qualify for public healthcare
If you are not employed, not self employed, not a pensioner with an S1 form, and not covered under a family member's social security, you may not qualify for public healthcare through the standard route. In that case, you can apply for the Convenio Especial (voluntary healthcare agreement) or take out private health insurance. Our Seguridad Social modules explain which route applies to your situation.
