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Portugal continues to attract expats in 2026 thanks to its warm climate, welcoming culture, and dependable Portugal healthcare system. For newcomers, understanding how medical care works—both public and private—can make settling in much smoother.
This guide breaks down the essentials in a simple, practical way, covering insurance options, eligibility, costs, and what to expect when accessing care.
Portugal Public Healthcare System
Portugal’s public healthcare system, known as the SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde), provides universal healthcare coverage to all legal residents. It’s funded through taxation and social security contributions made by both employees and employers, ensuring broad access to essential medical services across the country.
A key part of the healthcare in Portugal, SNS is the family doctor system. Each resident is assigned a médico de família, who handles general healthcare needs, preventive care, and referrals to specialists when necessary. Because specialist consultations usually require a referral, the system stays coordinated and efficient.
However, due to high demand, the SNS can experience waiting periods for non-urgent treatments and specialist appointments. For this reason, many residents choose to add private health insurance, giving them quicker access to specialists and additional services not fully covered by the Portugal medical system.
Where Does Portugal Rank in Healthcare?
The country is generally regarded as having a strong and reliable Portugal health care system, especially when compared with other countries offering a similar cost of living. According to Numbeo’s Health Care Index for 2025, Portugal ranks 23rd globally, reflecting the overall quality, accessibility, and consistency of its healthcare services.
This ranking highlights Portugal’s solid performance in areas such as public healthcare coverage, medical outcomes, and system efficiency. While it may not top global charts, Portugal healthcare consistently scores well for value, safety, and access, which is a key reason it remains an attractive destination for expats and retirees.
Is the Public Healthcare in Portugal Good?
Public healthcare in Portugal (SNS) is generally considered very good, particularly for essential and non-emergency care. Residents have access to family doctors, specialists, hospitals, and emergency services at low or no cost, which is one of the system’s biggest strengths.
That said, it’s important to be aware of a few practical realities. Waiting times can be longer for non-urgent specialist appointments or elective procedures, and the overall quality and availability of services tend to be better in larger cities than in more remote areas. For this reason, many residents and expats choose to combine the public Portugal healthcare with private health insurance, giving them faster access and greater flexibility when needed.
Who is Entitled to Portuguese Public Healthcare?
Portugal healthcare, the SNS, is available to anyone legally living and registered in the country. This includes residents with valid permits, EU/EEA citizens with registration certificates, and anyone contributing to social security. After registering at a local health centre and receiving a Número de Utente, residents can access care nationwide.
EU citizens visiting Portugal can use the EHIC for necessary treatment during short stays. Non-EU nationals on temporary visas or awaiting residency may also receive care if they can show proof of their application or social security contributions.
Children, pregnant women, and other vulnerable groups often receive additional support even while their residency process is still underway.
Cost of Public Healthcare in Portugal
The cost of healthcare in Portugal is generally affordable compared to many Western countries, especially when using the public system. Through the SNS, residents pay low fees for medical appointments, treatments, and prescriptions, while many essential services—such as vaccinations or emergency care—may be free or heavily subsidized.
Private healthcare in Portugal is also widely used due to its speed and convenience. Prices vary by provider, but consultations, diagnostics, and specialist visits are typically much lower than in countries like the US or UK.
Healthcare in Portugal for expats is often seen as a good balance between quality, accessibility, and cost, particularly when combining public and private care.
Portugal’s Private Healthcare
Portugal’s private healthcare system offers plenty of choice and convenience, allowing you to pick the doctors, specialists, and clinics that suit you best. This flexibility, along with quicker appointments, makes it a popular option for many residents and expats.
When looking at healthcare in Portugal for expats, it’s important to highlight Portuguese private hospitals. They are known for high-quality care, modern equipment, and a more personalized patient experience. In larger cities, it’s common to find English-speaking doctors and staff, which is especially helpful for newcomers who are still learning Portuguese.
Many people also choose private health insurance to access a wider range of services, from consultations and exams to surgeries and hospital stays. With shorter waiting times and broad coverage, private healthcare in Portugal is often seen as a comfortable and efficient complement to the Portuguese health care system.
Cost of Private Healthcare in Portugal
Private health insurance in Portugal is generally affordable, especially compared to many other Western countries. A standard plan usually costs between €50 and €70 per month and covers basic needs such as general consultations, some specialists, and essential diagnostic tests.
For those who prefer broader protection, more comprehensive plans are available. These often include wider specialist coverage, advanced exams, hospital stays, and additional treatments. Prices for these enhanced packages typically range from €100 to €150 per month.
Even if you choose a more comprehensive plan, healthcare in Portugal for expats remains significantly more affordable than in most of the countries people relocate from.
Private Insurance Options in Portugal
Foreigners have plenty of choices when it comes to private health insurance and medical care in Portugal, including international providers that specialize in expat coverage and local insurers offering strong, affordable plans. Here are five popular options:
- Cigna Global
- Allianz Worldwide Care
- Bupa Global
- Médis
- Multicare
How to Get an SNS Number in Portugal?
Getting your SNS number (Número de Utente) is a key step for accessing Portugal’s public healthcare system. The process is simple and can be done at your local health centre (Centro de Saúde). To apply, you’ll need the following documents:
- Passport
- Residence certificate or residence permit
- NIF Number
- Proof of address
Some centres may also ask for your social security number, if you have one. After presenting your documents, the staff will register you in the system and issue your Número de Utente.
Once you receive your SNS number, you can access public healthcare services across the country, including appointments, emergency care, and routine health screenings.
Healthcare for Children in Portugal
Children in Portugal are well cared for through the SNS, which offers easy access to routine check-ups, growth monitoring, and treatment for everyday illnesses. Families can visit local health centres or hospitals for reliable pediatric support whenever needed.
Portugal also follows a thorough vaccination schedule, providing free vaccines that protect kids from measles, mumps, rubella, polio, hepatitis B, and other common diseases. This helps ensure children stay healthy from their earliest years.
In addition to regular care, families benefit from pediatric emergency services, school health programs, and helpful guidance for parents, creating a supportive environment that prioritises children’s wellbeing
Pharmacies in Portugal
Pharmacies in Portugal, called Farmácias, are easy to find and marked by a green cross. They’re an essential part of the healthcare system, offering quick access to prescription and over-the-counter medicines.
Beyond dispensing medication, pharmacists provide friendly advice and guidance, helping with minor health concerns and recommending suitable treatments. Many pharmacies also offer services like blood pressure checks, diabetes support, and help with quitting smoking.
Most operate during normal business hours, but big cities also have 24-hour pharmacies. When others are closed, Duty Pharmacies (Farmácias de Serviço) ensure you can still get essential care and medications.
Private Hospitals in Portugal for Foreigners
Healthcare in Portugal offers an excellent selection of private hospitals that are well suited for foreigners, providing high-quality care, modern facilities, and smooth service.
Many private hospitals are known for their state-of-the-art equipment, experienced teams of medical care in Portugal, and a strong focus on patient comfort. About Portugal healthcare for expats, english-speaking staff are common in major cities, which makes the experience especially welcoming for international patients.
- CUF
- Hospital da Luz
- Lusíadas Saúde
- Grupo HPA Saúde
- Trofa Saúde
Portugal Visa Health Insurance Requirements
Portugal Golden Visa Health Insurance
Portugal Golden Visa applicants must show that they have appropriate coverage of healthcare in Portugal during their staying. Because the Golden Visa requires only short physical stays each year, insurance is usually needed for the periods spent in the country. Most investors use either:
- International private health insurance, or
- A Portuguese private policy if they plan to spend longer periods in Portugal
Once you obtain residency, you may also access the Portugal healthcare system under certain conditions.
D7 Visa Portugal Travel Insurance
Portugal health care insurance is a core requirement for the D7 Visa, since this visa is for full-time or long-term residents. Applicants must show:
- A Schengen-compliant policy covering medical care in Portugal
- Validity for the entire first year of residence
- Minimum coverage of €30,000
- Proof of policy payment (not just a quote)
After receiving the residence card and obtaining a Portuguese tax number, many D7 holders choose to join the Portugal medical system public (SNS) or switch to a local private policy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is health insurance mandatory for the D7 visa in Portugal?
Yes, health insurance is a mandatory requirement for the D7 visa in Portugal. It is necessary to have valid health insurance coverage during your stay in Portugal until you obtain your temporary residence permit.
Can I choose an international health insurance provider for the Portugal visa application?
Yes, as a foreigner applying for the Portugal visa, you have the flexibility to choose either a Portuguese health insurance provider or an international insurance company as long as the policy meets the required criteria.
Can expats access the Portuguese public healthcare system?
Expats who are legal residents in Portugal can access the public healthcare system by registering at their local health center. Non-resident expats may have limited access to emergency care but are encouraged to have private health insurance to cover their healthcare needs.
Is private health insurance necessary for expats in Portugal?
While not mandatory, having private health insurance is highly recommended for expats in Portugal. It provides additional coverage, faster access to healthcare services, and more flexibility in choosing doctors and hospitals. Private insurance can supplement the public system and offer a wider range of benefits.
How do I find a doctor who speaks English or my native language?
In larger cities and popular expat areas, it is often possible to find doctors and healthcare professionals who speak English or other languages. You can inquire about English-speaking doctors at private healthcare facilities or expat forums and communities for recommendations. See also: Senior Living in Portugal: Best Retirement Villages & Communities
How do I register for private healthcare as an expat in Portugal?
To access private healthcare in Portugal, expats can directly contact private hospitals, clinics, or medical centers to inquire about their services and make appointments. Private healthcare providers typically offer a range of plans and services tailored to individual needs.
What are the costs of healthcare in Portugal?
In the public healthcare system, costs are subsidized by the government, and patients pay a small co-payment for certain services. Private healthcare costs vary depending on the provider, but you may expect to pay between €50-150€ per person.
Are there any specific healthcare considerations for retirees living in Portugal?
Retirees living in Portugal can access the public healthcare system by registering at their local health center. They may also consider private health insurance to supplement their coverage and gain additional benefits.
What should I do in case of a medical emergency in Portugal?
In case of a medical emergency, dial the emergency number 112 for immediate assistance. Emergency care is available to everyone, regardless of residency status.
Should I consider using a Portuguese insurance broker for health insurance?
Using a Portuguese insurance broker can be a beneficial approach. Insurance brokers have expertise in comparing policies from multiple providers and can offer personalized advice based on your specific requirements.
Is healthcare free in Portugal?
In Portugal, the National Health Service (SNS) is the primary provider of healthcare, extending universal coverage to all residents, including legally residing foreigners. Although publicly funded, the SNS does entail some costs; it’s not entirely free.
Can a U.S. citizen get healthcare in Portugal?
Yes. Once legally resident in Portugal, a U.S. citizen can register with the public healthcare system (SNS) and access public hospitals and clinics. Many expats also choose private healthcare or insurance for faster access, but public care is fully available to residents.
How much does it cost to see a doctor in Portugal?
In the public system, a GP appointment usually costs a small fee or nothing at all. In private clinics, consultations typically range from €40 to €80, depending on the doctor and location.
What happens if you get sick in Portugal?
You can visit your local health center, a public hospital, or a private clinic. Emergency care is available to everyone. If you’re registered with the SNS, most costs are low or fully covered. Private care offers faster access but is paid out-of-pocket or through insurance.
Is dental care free in Portugal?
Dental care is not generally free under the public system, except in limited cases (such as children, low-income residents, or specific public programs). Most people use private dentists, where prices are still relatively affordable compared to many other countries.
Does Portugal have good healthcare?
Yes. Portugal has a solid and reliable healthcare system. The public healthcare system (SNS) offers affordable access to doctors, hospitals, specialists, and emergency care, and medical standards are generally high. While waiting times can be longer for non-urgent care, many residents and expats combine public healthcare with private insurance for faster access.
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