Contrary to what one might think, the health system in Portugal is highly developed, competent and close to that of othe european countries. The care system operates between the private and public sectors. The public health system is very efficient if you are registered in the Portuguese social security system called “Segurança Social”. However, you may be confronted with very long waiting times and a lack of certain highly specialised medical skills. The private sector, on the other hand, will allow you to make appointments very quickly via the internet but at a higher cost and therefore the need (but not the obligation) to be covered by a mutual insurance company in Portugal.
It is strongly advised in case of expatriation to Portugal to subscribe to a mutual insurance company which will allow you to benefit from the private health system faster and more efficient. Use the button below and fill in the dedicated form to be put in touch with an English-speaking insurance broker based in Lisbon, specialized in insurances in Portugal, who will be able to listen to your needs and propose you the best offers from Portuguese mutuals with specialized companies in the country.
In order to register with the Portuguese Social Security you will need to present various documents such as :
- Your TIN (Portuguese Tax Identification Number) or contributor number
- An identity document (passport or ID)
- Proof of your professional situation (employee, entrepreneur, unemployed, trainee)…
Please note that the Portuguese Social Security also manages social and family aid. Their offices are generally located near the Loja do Cidado, where most of the administrative procedures in Portugal are carried out.
You will then be given a social security number which will then allow you to register with a health centre in the town where you live!
You can then choose to consult a doctor in public health centres called “centro de saude”, but be aware that it can take a long time in some cases to get an appointment with a general practitioner or specialist for example!
You can also, thanks to your registration, go to public hospitals or health centres in case of an emergency.
The fees range from 4 to 7 euros on average for a consultation with a general practitioner or specialist. The cost is slightly higher for emergencies.
It is therefore essential that you register with the Portuguese Social Security as soon as you arrive in Portugal in order to have access to public health care and to benefit from social and family allowances.
Portuguese health insurance: English-speaking support
By validating the contact form, you authorize me to forward your request to an English-speaking insurance broker who will be able to contact you directly. Nothing is automated: they are people I know, based in Lisbon and who are qualified to accompany you in your approach & your project.
