If you’re moving to Portugal, understanding how the healthcare system works is key to feeling secure in your new home, especially if you’re relocating with children or planning to stay long-term.
Portugal offers high-quality care through both public and private systems, and many expats choose a mix of both depending on their needs.
EU citizens can access public healthcare temporarily using the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while non-EU expats must first register as residents and contribute to social security or hold an eligible visa (e.g., D7, digital nomad visa) to qualify.
Public Healthcare (SNS): What You Need to Know
Portugal’s public system, Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), is accessible to legal residents and provides affordable healthcare across the country.
To access it, you’ll need to:
- Be registered as a resident
- Get a Portuguese social security number
- Register at your local Centro de Saúde (health center)
- Receive your número de utente (user number)
What’s covered?
- GP visits
- Specialist appointments (with referral)
- Hospital care and emergency services
- Maternity and pediatric care
Most services are low-cost or free, with small co-payments (taxas moderadoras) for certain appointments or procedures.
Still deciding where to live in Portugal? Don’t miss our article on the Top 5 Cities to Relocate in Portugal, where we break down the best locations for lifestyle, cost of living, and access to healthcare.
Private Healthcare: Fast and Flexible
Many expats opt for private healthcare, either as their main option or as a supplement to the public system.
Why choose private care?
- Shorter wait times
- Direct access to specialists
- More English-speaking professionals
- Higher comfort and convenience
Private health insurance is affordable and widely available through local or international providers like Médis, Multicare, or Allianz.
Emergencies and Pharmacies
- Emergency number: Dial 112 for ambulance, police, or fire services.
- Public hospitals offer emergency care, but private hospitals may be faster (with costs unless insured).
- Pharmacies are everywhere, and pharmacists are highly trained. Many medications are subsidized or prescription-only.
Healthcare for Children and Families
Portugal provides excellent public healthcare for children:
- Free check-ups and vaccinations –
- Pediatric specialists available in public and private systems
- Quality maternity care in both sectors
Digital Healthcare Tools
Portugal’s digital health infrastructure makes things easier:
- SNS24 (808 24 24 24): A 24/7 helpline with medical support
- MySNS app: Access test results, prescriptions, and appointments online
Mental Health Services
Mental health support is available through the public system, but access may involve long waits. Private providers offer faster access to psychologists and psychiatrists, often covered by insurance.
Dental and Vision Care
Dental and vision care are not generally covered under the public system, except in emergencies. Most expats rely on private dentists and opticians, which are widely available and affordable.
Tips for Expats
- Bring translated medical records and prescriptions
- Consider private insurance during your first months
- In cities like Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve, English-speaking doctors are easy to find
- Get help registering with SNS to avoid delays
Let Eres Relocation Simplify the Process
Navigating a new healthcare system can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. At Eres Relocation, we support expats in every step of their move, from paperwork to healthcare registration and settling in with peace of mind.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you relocate to Portugal smoothly and stay healthy from day one.
