Spain's health care has not been immune to the country's troubled year riddled with budget cuts in public services. Still, with an aging population, the system, known as the Ministerio de Sanidad y Consumo, is extensive and covers all legal residents. In short, care is universal to all legal residents and their family members.

Making an appointment to see your doctor is as simple as using your community's service number or website, or visiting the nearest Centro de Salud in person. If using the state system, visits and general check-ups are free; private insurance may require a co-pay.

Every person who works for a registered company in Spain is required to have a Social Security Number, called a número de afiliación de la Seguridad Social. Social Security is generally paid for by an employer, though small businesses and their employees will have to pay the fee, which varies by region, each month. This number also helps track pensions, unemployment and sick days.