Health Insurance in Portugal

Portugal offers a high-quality healthcare system that combines public and private services. Expats and digital nomads moving to or living in Portugal have various options for health insurance, which is essential for accessing the full range of healthcare services and ensuring peace of mind.

Health Insurance Companies in Portugal

Portugal has several reputable health insurance companies that offer a range of policies to suit different needs and budgets. Some of the most popular health insurers include Médis, Multicare, and Allianz Care. These companies provide comprehensive health insurance plans that are also accessible to expats. They offer various levels of coverage, from basic to extensive, ensuring that individuals can find a plan that aligns with their healthcare needs and financial capabilities.

Expat Health Insurance in Portugal

Many expats living in Portugal opt for specialized expat health insurance plans. These plans are tailored to the unique needs of expats, such as coverage for medical repatriation, international medical assistance, and the flexibility to seek treatment both in Portugal and in other countries. This is particularly important for those who travel frequently or may not be fully covered under the public healthcare system due to their residency status.

Local Health Insurance vs. Expat Health Insurance

While some expats and digital nomads choose to use local health insurance companies, others prefer specialized expat health insurance providers. The decision often depends on factors such as the length of their stay, their eligibility for the public healthcare system, and their personal healthcare needs. Local insurance plans are typically more cost-effective for those who plan to reside in Portugal long-term and have access to the public system, while expat insurance might be more suitable for those looking for more comprehensive international coverage.

Considerations for Health Insurance Abroad

When deciding on health insurance while living overseas, it's important to consider the specifics of the policy. Some insurers offer direct billing with hospitals and clinics, which means they will settle the bills directly, sparing you the upfront costs. Others may require you to pay out-of-pocket and then submit claims for reimbursement. The ease of the claims process, the extent of the coverage, including whether it covers pre-existing conditions, and the network of hospitals and doctors are also crucial factors to consider when choosing a health insurance plan as an expat or digital nomad in Portugal.

Expats talk about Health Insurance in Portugal

"We are required to have a private policy that meets the Schengen Community requirements (go to their website). The highest quality of coverage won't cost more than 3,000 euros a person/year (2017) and most retirees are paying only 2,000 euros annually. This includes dental and eye care, surgeries, private hospital room, unlimited doctor visits and tests," commented one expat living in Lisbon, Portugal.

"The cost of a private plan is half or less than charged in the US. Health insurance can be purchased through banks or a few organizations, such as the Automobile Club of Portugal or 'afpop'. These offer even better group rates than the bank rates," mentioned one expat living in Portugal.

"The cost of public medical care in Portugal is affordable once you're on the National Health System. I have not yet used the private services, so I can't compare their costs, but everyone I know who uses them (especially Americans) says the cost is relatively low. In Portugal there are small co-pays, which are cheaper than in the States (when I lived there), but I've never had to pay a co-pay in Canada (and I've lived in 5 provinces)," said an expat in Portugal.

"I just obtained private insurance through Millenium Bank. Since I am 70 (oops - 71 today). I am limited in companies that will write me. The company is Medis (sp?) and will cost me 30 euros per month. A STEAL - compared to the $230 I'm paying in the US for a Medicare Supplement. They will write people up to 75 Ana, once written, must continue to renew. There is a 60-day waiting period, so the bank will process it 60 days before I move there," remarked one member living in Portugal.

"Healthcare rates are somewhat dependent on your age. I am 69 I pay about $180 a month with MGen. I don't have the lowest benefit or the highest, I am somewhere in the middle. I went with MGen for the following reasons. No limit on renewability...my age will never disqualify me from renewing my plan. They accept pre-existing conditions. I used a service called Serenity to help me navigate the various healthcare providers. You can do this yourself, I just preferred not to. If you join Afpop I believe you can buy MGen through them and get a discounted rate," said one expat living in Portugal.