How Healthcare Works in Portugal for Residents and Expats

When people think about Portugal, it’s usually beaches, wine, and that slow Mediterranean rhythm of life. But if you’re planning to stay in this European country for more than a vacation, healthcare quickly becomes one of the most practical things to figure out.

The good news? Portugal’s healthcare system is both reliable and affordable compared to many other Western countries.

Whether you’re settling in with a Golden Visa, moving over via the D7 retirement route, or simply spending more time here as a resident, you’ll find a mix of public and private care that works well together.

The public system, Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), offers universal coverage, while private hospitals and clinics give you faster access and more flexibility, often at surprisingly reasonable prices.

Add to that a country where life expectancy continues to rise, and you start to see why so many expats feel comfortable making Portugal their long-term base.

In this guide, we’ll break down how healthcare works in Portugal today:

1. What the public system covers
2. When private health insurance makes sense
3. Costs you should expect as a resident or expat
4. Special considerations for families, retirees, and Golden Visa holders

Let’s start with the basics, the structure of Portugal’s public healthcare system.

Public Healthcare in Portugal (SNS)

Portugal’s public healthcare system is called the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS). It was established in 1979 and is funded through taxes, which means it works on the principle of universal access: if you’re a resident and registered, you can use it.

Here’s how it works in practice:

• Coverage: The SNS covers most essential healthcare services, GP visits, hospital care, maternity services, pediatric care, vaccinations, and prescription drugs (usually at subsidized rates). Emergency care is free, while most other treatments require small co-payments, often just a few euros.

• Who qualifies: Citizens and legal residents with a residence permit can register for the SNS. You’ll need to get a Número de Utente (user number), which you can obtain at your local health center once you have proof of residence and a Portuguese tax number (NIF).

• Children and seniors: Healthcare is completely free for children under 18 and adults over 65. Pregnant women and other vulnerable groups also receive free or highly subsidized care.

• Dental care: This is where the system is limited. Dental services are only fully covered for children, pregnant women, seniors, and certain vulnerable groups. Most other adults will need private dental insurance or pay out of pocket.

• Regional systems: On the mainland, the SNS is overseen by five regional health administrations. Madeira and the Azores operate their own systems, though they are aligned with national standards

• Language: In major cities and hospitals, most doctors and specialists speak English. In smaller towns, you may find fewer English speakers, but the standard of care is consistent.

While the SNS ensures that everyone has access to healthcare, it does come with one familiar drawback: waiting times.

Non-urgent appointments and specialist referrals can sometimes take weeks or even months, which is why many expats complement public care with private health insurance.

Private Healthcare and Insurance in Portugal

Even though Portugal’s public system is solid, many expats and locals choose to also use private healthcare. The main reasons are speed and convenience.

• Shorter waiting times: Instead of waiting weeks for a specialist appointment through the SNS, private hospitals and clinics often give you an appointment within days

• English-speaking doctors: In private clinics, it’s almost guaranteed you’ll find English-speaking staff, which makes life a lot easier if you’re not fluent in Portuguese

• Modern facilities: Portugal’s private hospitals and clinics are well-equipped, with many located in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. They also tend to offer a smoother experience, from booking appointments online to faster lab results

How much does private healthcare cost?

Private healthcare in Portugal is surprisingly affordable compared to the US, UK, or even Spain.

• Consultations: A general doctor’s visit usually costs around €40–€100 without insurance

• Specialist visits: Between €80–€150, depending on the field

• Hospital stays or surgeries: These can get expensive, which is why private insurance is common

Private health insurance

Most expats and residents take out private health insurance to make costs more predictable.

• Basic coverage: Around €15–€40 per month, usually covering GP visits, emergencies, and some specialist consultations

• Comprehensive plans: Typically range from €50–€100 per month, offering broader coverage including hospitalization, surgeries, and sometimes dental care

• Annual premiums: On average, people spend between €400–€1,000 per year depending on age, health, and level of coverage

Well-known providers in Portugal include Médis, Multicare, and AdvanceCare, along with international insurers like Allianz and Cigna for expats.

Who needs private insurance?

• Expats applying for a Golden Visa or D7 Visa are required to show proof of private health insurance during the application process

• Even after gaining access to the SNS, many keep private coverage simply for faster service and wider choice of doctors

So, while the SNS ensures affordability and universal access, private healthcare brings peace of mind and comfort, a combination that makes Portugal a very attractive place to live long-term.

Costs and Access Overview

One of the reasons Portugal stands out in Europe is how affordable healthcare is compared to the quality you get. Whether you stick to the public system, mix in private care, or go fully insured, costs stay much lower than in the US or UK.

Public healthcare costs

• Consultations: Most GP visits or basic specialist appointments through the SNS are free

• Prescriptions: Medicines are subsidized, and discounts can be generous, often between 30% and 90%, depending on the drug and whether a generic option is available

• Dental: As mentioned earlier, residents generally pay privately unless they fall into a covered group (children, seniors, pregnant women, or patients with special needs)

Private healthcare costs

Without insurance, private doctors and specialists typically cost €50–€150 per visit. Surgeries and hospital stays are much more expensive, which is why insurance is almost always recommended for anyone staying long-term.

Health insurance premiums

• Basic plans: Start at under €20 per month

• Comprehensive coverage: Usually falls between €50–€100 per month, depending on age and benefits

• Annual average: Most expats pay €400–€1,000 per year. Even at the higher end, this is significantly cheaper than insurance in the US or much of Northern Europe

Pharmacies in Portugal

Pharmacies, farmácias, are everywhere, easily spotted by the green cross sign. Many are open late, and in larger cities, you’ll find 24-hour ones on rotation. Prescription drugs are affordable, and pharmacists are often the first point of advice for minor issues.

Everyday reality

For residents, the system feels straightforward:

• Public healthcare keeps costs minimal

• Private insurance covers the big, unpredictable expenses and speeds up access

• Out-of-pocket payments are low compared to most Western countries

All in all, Portugal strikes a balance: you don’t break the bank on healthcare, but you still have access to a very decent standard of care.

Healthcare for Expats and Visa Holders

If you’re relocating to Portugal, access to healthcare depends on your visa type and residency status. The good news is that once you’re legally resident, you’re entitled to the same healthcare rights as Portuguese citizens.

Golden Visa Applicants

• Before your Golden Visa is approved, you’ll need private health insurance that covers you in Portugal

• After you receive residency and register with the SNS, you can access the public system just like locals

• Many Golden Visa holders keep their private plan for flexibility, especially if they won’t be living in Portugal full-time

Read all about the countries you can visit visa-free with Portugal residency in our blog: Portugal Residency Visa-Free Countries: Your Gate to Travel Europe

D7 Visa (Retirees and Passive Income Holders)

• You must present valid health insurance when applying for the D7 visa

• Once your residence permit is issued, you can register with the SNS and receive public healthcare

• Most retirees keep a private insurance plan too, since it’s inexpensive and makes it easier to access specialists without long waits

Read all about the Portugal D7 Visa: Requirements, Process & Application Guide in our blog.

Digital Nomad Visa (D8)

• Like the D7, applicants need health insurance at the time of applying

• Once residency is granted, digital nomads also qualify for the SNS

• Younger expats often go for basic private insurance since costs are low and cover most routine needs

EU/EEA Citizens

• EU citizens visiting Portugal can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for public care

• If they become residents, they simply register with the SNS like anyone else

Non-EU Visitors and Tourists

• Short-term visitors (Schengen visa holders) need travel medical insurance with at least €30,000 coverage for emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation

• For a three-month stay, this usually costs around €90–€130

• Tourists are not covered by the SNS unless they become residents

Special Services in Portugal’s Healthcare System

The SNS covers most needs, but a few areas deserve special attention for families and expats.

Maternity and Women’s Healthcare

• Prenatal and maternity care is provided through the SNS and is free for residents

• Expectant mothers usually register at their local hospital or health center and receive a pregnancy booklet (Boletim de Saúde da Grávida) to track appointments and progress

• Most women give birth in public hospitals, though private clinics are available for those with insurance

• Prenatal classes exist but aren’t always covered by public healthcare and are often paid privately

Children’s Healthcare

• Children under 18 receive free healthcare in Portugal

• From birth, children are assigned a family doctor through the SNS, covering regular check-ups, vaccinations, and developmental monitoring

• Portugal runs a national vaccination program, which includes coverage for Hepatitis B, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and more

• Children also benefit from free dental care under public health programs, something not generally available to adults

Mental Health Services

• Portugal has made progress in expanding mental health services but still faces a shortage of specialists compared to EU averages

• Through the SNS, your GP is the first point of contact who can prescribe medication, refer you to counseling, or connect you with community-based programs

• For more specialized or faster access, many expats turn to private clinics where English-speaking therapists and psychiatrists are more widely available

Dental Care

• The SNS does not cover routine dental care for most adults

• Exceptions include children, pregnant women, seniors, and some vulnerable groups who can access free or subsidized dental services

• For others, dental care is paid out of pocket or through private insurance, with a standard check-up costing around €20 – €50

• Many private insurance plans include dental add-ons, which help reduce costs

Emergency Services and Pharmacies in Portugal

When it comes to emergencies, Portugal’s system is simple and reliable, and pharmacies are everywhere, making day-to-day healthcare access very practical.

Emergency Care

• The national emergency number is 112, which connects to ambulance, police, and fire services

• Response times are generally quick, with ambulances dispatched within minutes in urban areas

• Emergency treatment in public hospitals is free, though follow-up care may involve small co-payments

• Portugal also runs Saúde 24, a health hotline at 808 24 24 24, available 24/7 with English-speaking staff who can advise whether you should go to a hospital, call an ambulance, or manage at home

Pharmacies (Farmácias)

• Easily recognized by the green cross sign, pharmacies are well distributed even in small towns

• Most keep extended hours, and in larger cities you’ll find 24-hour pharmacies on rotation

• Many medications are subsidized if prescribed through the SNS, which keeps costs low

• Pharmacists are often the first point of contact for minor health issues and can give advice or provide over-the-counter treatments without needing a doctor visit

Pros and Cons of Healthcare in Portugal

Like anywhere, Portugal’s healthcare system has its strengths and a few drawbacks. Expats generally find the balance positive, but it’s good to have a clear picture before relocating.

Pros

• Universal coverage through the SNS ensures affordable access for residents

• Public system offers free healthcare for children, seniors, and vulnerable groups

• Private healthcare is widely available, modern, and relatively inexpensive compared to most Western countries

• High life expectancy and strong outcomes in areas like cancer survival rates show the quality of care

• Pharmacies are accessible, and medication costs are heavily subsidized

Cons

• Waiting times for non-urgent public appointments can be long

• Routine dental care is not covered for most adults and must be paid privately

• Out-of-pocket spending in Portugal is higher than the EU average

• Mental health services are improving but still lack enough specialists

Future of Healthcare in Portugal

Healthcare in Portugal isn’t standing still. The system has been adapting to new challenges, technology, and demographic shifts, all of which matter for expats looking to make this their long-term home.

System Improvements and Modernization

• Ongoing investments in hospitals and primary care centers are improving facilities across the country

• Public-private partnerships have helped bring in new hospitals and updated management structures

• Preventive medicine and long-term care programs are becoming a bigger priority as the population ages

Digital Health Initiatives

• Telemedicine has grown quickly, giving residents easier access to doctors for non-urgent consultations

• Electronic health records are being rolled out nationwide, making it simpler to manage your medical history across different hospitals and clinics

• Online booking systems are increasingly common, especially in private healthcare, cutting down on wait times and paperwork

Healthcare Policy Changes

• Portugal has been gradually addressing waiting lists and specialist shortages through expanded hiring and redistribution of medical staff

• Policies continue to encourage integration of foreign residents into the SNS, ensuring expats with legal residency can access services without barriers

• Focus is shifting toward mental health and elderly care, with new initiatives aimed at improving access to specialists and community-based support

Healthcare as Part of Life in Portugal

Healthcare in Portugal isn’t something you worry about much once you’re settled. The public system makes sure you’re covered, private care keeps things moving quickly when you need it, and overall costs stay refreshingly low compared to most other countries.

It’s one of the reasons Portugal feels not just like a beautiful place to visit, but a comfortable place to live long-term.

If you’re considering residency in Portugal, whether through the Golden Visa, D7, Digital Nomad or other routes, Savory & Partners can guide you through the process and make sure your healthcare access is seamless from the start.

FAQs about Healthcare in Portugal

Is healthcare free in Portugal for expats?

Public healthcare is not completely free, but it is heavily subsidized. Residents who register with the SNS pay only small co-payments for most services. Children under 18, seniors over 65, and certain vulnerable groups receive free care.

Do I need private health insurance in Portugal?

Yes, if you are applying for a visa such as the Golden Visa or D7 Visa, you must show proof of private health insurance. Even after gaining access to the SNS, many expats keep private coverage for faster appointments and wider choice of doctors.

Do healthcare professionals in Portugal speak English?

In larger cities and private clinics, most doctors and specialists speak English. In smaller towns, you may encounter fewer English-speaking staff, but overall communication is not a major barrier for expats.

Does Portugal cover dental care?

Routine dental care is not included in the SNS for most adults. Children, seniors, pregnant women, and some vulnerable groups receive coverage, while others rely on private dental care or insurance add-ons.

References

Government of Portugal. (2025). Migrants: Healthcare in Portugal. Referred from: https://www2.gov.pt/en/migrantes-viver-e-trabalhar-em-portugal/migrantes-cuidados-de-saude-em-portugal

SPMS, Ministério da Saúde. (2025). Digital health innovation at SPMS with new international projects in 2025. Referred from: https://www.spms.min-saude.pt/2025/04/digital-health-innovation-at-spms-with-new-international-projects-in-2025

Goiana-da-Silva, F. (2025). Addressing bureaucratic burdens on the Portuguese NHS. Referred from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11989048

Digital Health Portugal. (2025). Our Digital Health Manifesto and Think Tank Initiative. Referred from: https://www.digitalhealthportugal.eu

Oliveira, M. D., et al. (2025). A novel policy dialogue to build sustainable and resilient health policy in Portugal (PHSSR-PT). Referred from: https://health-policy-systems.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12961-025-01329-5