Málaga · Health card
Getting your public health card in Málaga (Andalucía)
In Andalucía you request your first public health card in person at your local health centre. You need your padrón certificate and a Social Security document showing your right to healthcare.
What it is
The tarjeta sanitaria gives you access to the Andalusian public health service (SAS): your GP (médico de cabecera), your local health centre and public hospitals. It shows your NUHSA, your unique Andalusian health record number.
Before you apply
You need two things in place first:
- Your padrón certificate, showing you live in Andalucía.
- Your right to public healthcare, recognised by the Social Security Institute (INSS). You usually have it if you work or are registered as autónomo in Spain, or if you're the family member of someone who is. Get the INSS document that proves this.
What to bring
- Your passport or TIE (and NIE).
- Your padrón certificate.
- The INSS document showing your right to healthcare.
- Your Social Security number.
Steps
- Find your health centre (centro de salud). It's assigned by your address.
- Apply in person at the health centre's admissions desk with the request form and your documents (originals and copies). A first card can't be requested online.
- Get assigned a GP at the same time.
- Receive your card. After that, you can manage changes online through ClicSalud+ or the Salud Andalucía app, which can also show a virtual health card.
Cost
Free.
Common pitfalls
- Register on the padrón and sort Social Security first. Without both, the health centre can't issue the card.
- Moved house? Update your padrón and your health centre so you're assigned the right GP.
When to ask a helper
If you're retired, not working, or on private insurance and unsure whether you qualify for public healthcare, ask someone in Málaga who's been through it.
Spot a mistake?
Rules change and offices differ. If something here is wrong or out of date, tell us and we'll check it.