Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Portugal?

When moving to Portugal as an expat or digital nomad, it's essential to understand the health insurance requirements for residency. Portugal has a public healthcare system, but newcomers are generally required to have private health insurance until they become residents and gain access to the public system. The insurance must typically cover a minimum amount that ensures comprehensive healthcare coverage and should be valid for the entire duration of your stay until residency is granted. Specific requirements can vary, so it's important to check the latest regulations from the Portuguese Immigration Service (SEF) or consult with a legal professional specializing in immigration.

Does Expat Health Insurance Meet the Requirements?

Most expat health insurance plans are designed to meet the requirements set by countries for incoming residents. However, it's crucial to verify that the plan you choose complies with Portuguese standards. The insurance should cover a range of medical services, including hospitalization, emergency care, and sometimes even repatriation. It's advisable to obtain a policy that offers coverage above the minimum required amount to ensure that you are fully protected. Additionally, the policy should be valid for the entire period until you are eligible to join the public healthcare system or obtain residency.

Which local health insurers offer this type of insurance?

In Portugal, there are several reputable local health insurance providers that offer plans suitable for expats and digital nomads. Companies such as Fidelidade, Allianz Portugal, and Médis are known for their comprehensive health insurance products that cater to the needs of the international community. These insurers provide a range of options, from basic to premium coverage, ensuring that you can find a plan that fits your budget and meets the legal requirements for residency. It's recommended to compare different plans and read the fine print to understand what is covered and any potential exclusions or limitations.

Advice from Expats in Portugal about Health Insurance

Experienced expats in Portugal often emphasize the importance of securing health insurance that offers extensive coverage and flexibility. They advise newcomers to look for plans that include direct billing with hospitals and clinics, which simplifies the payment process for medical services. Additionally, choosing a plan with a broad network of doctors and medical facilities is beneficial, as it provides more options for care. Expats also recommend considering additional coverage for dental and vision care, which may not be included in standard policies. Lastly, it's important to review the claims process and customer support offered by the insurance provider to ensure a smooth experience should you need to use your insurance.

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," said one expat who moved to 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 when asked about moving to 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)," stated one expat who made the move to 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 expat 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.