Health Care In Portugal

WHO ranks Portugal’s health care #12 out of 191 countries surveyed, meaning it has some of best in the world.

The Portuguese health system is universal and residence-based. If you move to Portugal permanently, you’ll have to register with the authorities (town hall or immigration) to obtain a residence certificate. You’ll then be able to register with a GP at your local state-run health center.

Portugal’s state health care system, which is paid for by taxes, is typically available to all residents in Portugal, but many expats take out private health insurance as well.

The Portuguese Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) provides hospital and local health center services to all those who contribute to social security, including foreigners. Through this system, you’d receive all necessary health care for free, but non-essential services will only be covered up to 60% in most cases (potentially less).

All hospital treatment in the state system requires referral from a doctor. Make sure you’re referred to a public hospital, as only these provide treatment free of charge. Be prepared to make a co-payment for some exams or treatment you receive.

Private health care is expensive without health insurance, but the quality is much higher than in the public health care system: shorter wait times, better equipment, and better doctors in general.