Spanish insurance explained in English – CM Seguros Insurance Broker in Spain

Can you tell us a little about your background? What inspired you to launch CM Seguros, and what gap in the market you were hoping to fill for expats in Spain?

I have been working in the insurance sector for over 20 years. From the beginning, my priority has been to offer a close, clear, and personalised service. Over time, I noticed that expats arriving in Spain often felt lost. They didn’t fully understand the system, legal requirements, or the differences between insurance companies. That’s how the international focus of CM Seguros was born: to help them feel protected, informed, and supported, even before setting foot in Spain.

You made the decision to become an expat yourself during the pandemic. How did the experience of moving to the UK shape your perspective on the needs of international families relocating abroad?

It was a transformative experience. Living in another country with my daughter made me personally feel what it’s like to not fully understand the language, to navigate bureaucracy without a support network, and to search for reliable services. I became more empathetic with my clients and strengthened my commitment: it’s not just about selling insurance, it’s about standing beside those starting a new life far from home.

What were some of the biggest surprises or challenges you faced personally while living abroad with your daughter?

One of the biggest challenges was uncertainty. Everything was new: from the school to the healthcare system. Even small tasks felt overwhelming. But there were also positive surprises—the solidarity of other parents, and the value of a community that welcomes and shares. That inspired me to build something similar through my work: a real support network.

Now that you’re back in Spain, how does your own journey continue to influence how you work with your clients?

My experience as an expat gave me a very human and practical perspective. I understand what families worry about when arriving in Spain, so I anticipate their needs. I take the time to explain each step, offer clear options, and be available when they need it most. I don’t just sell policies—I build relationships.

Can you walk us through the different types of services you offer, and what makes your support particularly well-suited for expats?

We offer health, life, home, car, civil liability, business insurance, and specific visa insurance (including full coverage without copayments and with repatriation). What sets us apart is that we act as trusted advisors: we speak the client’s language, but we represent them in perfect Spanish in front of insurers.

This balance is key—the expat can express themselves naturally in English, while having a Spanish broker who represents them with full knowledge of the system and technical language. In complex cases, I personally handle the communication with the insurer. We know that even the best-prepared expat does not have the same authority or tools to defend themselves within the Spanish system, and that’s where we make the difference.

CM Seguros has over 20 years of experience—how has the company evolved over time, especially in response to the growing international community in Spain and Andorra?

Over time, we’ve expanded our services and adapted our structure to meet the needs of an increasingly international client base. We serve expats of many nationalities living in different parts of Spain, and we’ve recently started expanding into Andorra, a destination increasingly chosen by families and international entrepreneurs. We are building local partnerships and learning the specific requirements of the country so that we can soon offer the same personalised service there that we already provide in Spain.

Health insurance is often one of the most urgent needs for expats—what do families need to know when choosing a policy for visa purposes or long-term living?

They should know that not all policies are valid for visa applications. It’s essential that the insurance offers full coverage without copayments, includes repatriation, and comes with a certificate in English or Spanish. It’s also important to think long-term: access to quality healthcare providers, reimbursement options if they choose specialists outside the network, and coverage for mental health, maternity, or fertility when needed. We guide them to choose what truly fits their case.

You work with a team of both Spanish and international professionals—how important is it for clients to be able to communicate with someone in their own language when dealing with complex topics like insurance?

It’s essential. We work in both English and Spanish because we know that English is the global language, and it allows us to communicate clearly with most of our clients. But listening in English is also key to fully understanding what the client needs, so we can recommend the right solution within the Spanish system, where the policy will be enforced. That linguistic and cultural bridge makes all the difference—our clients feel heard and understood, and we ensure they are properly represented.

As independent brokers, you’re not tied to a single insurer—how does that benefit your clients in terms of choice and peace of mind?

It gives them true freedom. We can compare different companies, find the best value, tailor the coverage, and remain completely transparent. We don’t represent the insurance companies—we represent the client. And if there’s a problem, we’re the ones who follow up and provide support. We don’t disappear after the sale.

Many expats feel overwhelmed when it comes to understanding bureaucracy and filing claims—how do you help simplify that process for them?

We explain everything clearly, step by step. From how to use their health insurance to how to file a claim with the Spanish insurance compensation consortium after a storm—which, in most cases, we even manage directly for them. We know they’re in a new country, and we want them to feel they’re not alone when dealing with the system.

What are some common insurance mistakes or misconceptions you often see among newcomers to Spain?

Many believe a basic policy is enough for a visa, and that’s not the case. Others think a copay health policy is cheaper, without considering long-term costs. Some confuse home insurance with liability insurance, or think they don’t need one because they’re renting. Often, lease agreements include unclear insurance requirements, so clients send us their contracts for interpretation. That’s why we always recommend seeking advice before signing anything.

You also offer coverage for property rentals and businesses. What should expat entrepreneurs or vacation rental owners be thinking about when it comes to insurance?

They need protection against property damage, theft, and liability. But each product is specific depending on the situation—whether it’s a primary residence, vacation home, long-term or short-term rental, or protection against illegal occupation. There’s a wide range of options, and proper assessment is essential. When it comes to business, each activity has unique risks, and not all insurance covers them equally. We analyse each case individually and advise clients to seek real—not just commercial—coverage.

Your motto is “We work to make you feel safe away from home.” What does that mean to you?

It means our work goes beyond being just an insurance broker. It’s about offering closeness, understanding, and solutions to people who have left their country to start over. It’s saying: “we’re here for you”. So they can focus on building their new life, with the peace of mind that someone has their back.

To find out more about the services CM Seguros offers and how they can support your move to Spain, visit their website or get in touch by email: info@cmseguros.es