Healthcare

Healthcare in Portugal

Portugal operates a mixed public-private healthcare system. The public Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) provides universal coverage for residents, while private healthcare offers faster access and more English-speaking doctors.

Public Healthcare (SNS)

Eligibility:

Legal residents can register with the SNS and receive a user number (Número de Utente). This requires:

• Valid residence permit OR
• Certificate of residence from local parish (freguesia) if waiting for permit
• Portuguese NIF (tax number)
• Proof of address

Costs:

Since 2022, the SNS abolished most user fees. Healthcare is essentially free with:

• Small co-payments for some services
• Free emergency care
• Free maternity and child healthcare
• Free vaccinations

Pros:

• Very affordable (essentially free)
• Good quality of care
• Covers all essential services

Cons:

• Long waiting times for specialists and non-urgent procedures
• Bureaucratic registration process
• Limited English among staff outside Lisbon/Porto
• Rural areas have fewer facilities

Private Healthcare

Why choose private:

• Faster access to specialists
• Shorter waiting times
• More English-speaking doctors
• Modern facilities
• Greater choice of doctors

Costs:

• Basic private insurance: €50-120/month
• Comprehensive coverage: €100-200/month
• Average annual premiums: €400-1,000

Major providers:

• Médis
• Multicare
• Allianz Portugal
• Fidelidade

For Visa Applicants

Important: All visa applications require health insurance:

• Schengen visa: Minimum €30,000 coverage
• Residence permits: Valid health insurance (can be Portuguese SNS after registration, or private)

Recommendation: Get private insurance initially, then register with SNS once you have your residence permit. Many expats maintain both for comprehensive coverage.

Pharmacies (Farmácias)

Pharmacies are well-stocked and pharmacists can advise on minor ailments. Many medications available over-the-counter that require prescriptions elsewhere. Look for the green cross sign.

Emergency Services

• Emergency number: 112 (EU-wide)
• Hospital emergency rooms (Urgências) for serious issues
• Health Line: 808 24 24 24 (SNS24) for non-emergency medical advice

Practical Tips

1. Register with SNS as soon as you have residence permit
2. Keep private insurance for first 6-12 months while navigating the system
3. Find a doctor who speaks English if needed (more common in private sector)
4. Pharmacists can help with minor issues - they're knowledgeable and accessible
5. Bring translated medical records for existing conditions