Healthcare System Overview
Portugal has a universal healthcare system called the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS). While primarily designed for residents, expats with legal residency have access to public healthcare.
✓ Good News: Portugal ranks well in global healthcare quality assessments, with particularly strong primary care and emergency services.
Public vs Private
- Public (SNS): Free or low-cost for residents, but can have long wait times for specialists
- Private: Faster access, English-speaking doctors more common, costs remain reasonable by US standards
- Many expats use both: SNS for emergencies and major care, private for routine visits
Accessing SNS (Public Healthcare)
To access the public healthcare system, you need to register at your local Centro de Saúde (health center).
Requirements
- Valid residence permit or proof of legal stay
- NIF (tax number)
- Proof of address in Portugal
- Passport or ID
Número de Utente (Health Number)
After registration, you receive a Número de Utente—your health service user number. This is required for all public healthcare interactions.
💡 Tip: Registration can take several weeks. Start the process soon after arrival, even if you plan to use private healthcare primarily.
What SNS Covers
- Primary care (GP/family doctor visits)
- Emergency services
- Specialist referrals
- Hospital care
- Maternity care
- Prescription subsidies
- Mental health services
SNS Costs (Taxas Moderadoras)
Public healthcare isn't completely free—small co-payments apply:
- GP appointment: €5-15
- Emergency room: €15-20
- Specialist visit: €10-20
- Prescriptions: Subsidized (typically 30-95% off)
The main drawback of SNS is wait times. Specialist appointments can take weeks or months. Emergency care is immediate, but non-urgent care requires patience.
Private Healthcare
Portugal has an excellent private healthcare sector with modern facilities and English-speaking staff, especially in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.
Major Private Hospital Groups
- Hospital da Luz: Part of Luz Saúde group, locations in Lisbon, Porto, and more
- CUF Hospitals: Largest private hospital network in Portugal
- Lusíadas: Major chain with hospitals and clinics nationwide
- Hospital Particular do Algarve: Serves the expat-heavy Algarve region
Typical Private Costs (Without Insurance)
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| GP consultation | €50-80 |
| Specialist consultation | €80-150 |
| Blood tests (basic panel) | €30-60 |
| MRI scan | €200-400 |
| Emergency room visit | €100-200 |
💡 Compared to US: Private healthcare in Portugal typically costs 50-80% less than equivalent care in the United States.
Health Insurance Options
Most visa types require health insurance. Common options:
Portuguese Private Insurance
- Médis: One of the largest, offers various plans
- Multicare: Fidelidade group, comprehensive coverage
- AdvanceCare: Popular among expats
- Allianz/AXA: International insurers with Portugal presence
Typical Costs
- Basic coverage: €30-50/month
- Comprehensive (including dental): €70-150/month
- Family plans: Varies widely
- Costs increase significantly after age 60-65
International Insurance
Some expats maintain international health insurance:
- Cigna Global: Popular with American expats
- Allianz Worldwide: Comprehensive international coverage
- IMG Global: Options for expats and travelers
For D7 and other visas, insurance must explicitly cover Portugal and meet minimum requirements. Travel insurance typically doesn't qualify—you need proper health insurance.
Pharmacies
Portuguese pharmacies (farmácias) are well-stocked and pharmacists are trained to provide basic medical advice.
Key Points
- Prescription required: Many medications available over-the-counter in the US require prescriptions in Portugal
- Subsidized prices: Prescriptions are significantly subsidized for residents (30-95% discounts)
- Green cross: Look for the green cross symbol for pharmacies
- Extended hours: Rotating night/weekend pharmacies (farmácias de serviço) ensure 24/7 access
💡 Bring Records: Bring your current prescriptions and medical records from home. Portuguese doctors can often continue your medications, though exact brands may differ.
Emergency Services
Emergency number: 112 (European standard, like US 911)
Emergency Rooms
- Called "Urgências" or "Serviço de Urgência"
- Triage system prioritizes by severity
- Public hospitals handle all emergencies regardless of insurance
- Private hospitals also have emergency departments
Non-Emergency Care
- Saúde 24: Health helpline (808 24 24 24) for medical advice
- Walk-in clinics: Private clinics often accept same-day appointments
Dental & Vision Care
Dental Care
Dental care is mostly private in Portugal and not covered by SNS (except for emergency extractions):
- Cleaning: €50-80
- Filling: €40-100
- Crown: €300-600
- Implant: €800-1,500
Vision Care
- Eye exam: €30-60
- Glasses: Wide range, often cheaper than US
- Major chains: Ópticas (optical shops) throughout cities
Healthcare by Region
Lisbon
Best infrastructure, most English-speaking doctors, largest selection of private hospitals.
Porto
Strong healthcare, slightly fewer English speakers but excellent quality.
Algarve
Accustomed to expats, many English-speaking practitioners, Hospital Particular do Algarve is a major private option.
Rural Areas
More limited options, may need to travel to larger cities for specialists. Portuguese language more necessary.