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Free Healthcare in Portugal after Brexit
Portugal has a free to access National Health Service - Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS).
The World Health Organisation places it at number 12 in its rankings of health services worldwide (the UK is number 18) in 2021.
Find out more about how you can access Portuguese healthcare when you move.
Is healthcare in Portugal free?
Whether you have a holiday home in Portugal or are planning to move permanently, it's important to understand how you can access local healthcare.
Watch our short Q&A with Marta Ceia from the British Embassy in Lisbon, and Sarah Owen from the Department of Health and Social Care to understand the eligibility requirements.
How does the healthcare system in Portugal work?
In Portugal, the health system is tax funded and mostly free of charge. The Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) may charge small fees for non-essential services and treatments, but the majority of services on offer do not need to be paid for.
How do I access free healthcare in Portugal?
If you are a registered Portuguese resident you will be able to access healthcare via the SNS. In order to use its services you need to register at your local health centre (centro de saúde), they will require your passport, residency certificate and social security card in order to register you. Once you are registered, you will receive a 'Users Card'.
Can I still use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in Portugal?
If your EHIC hasn't expired yet you can still use it for temporary stays in Portugal.
If your EHIC has expired (or is close to its expiry date) you will need to apply for the the new UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). This new card covers you for chronic and existing illnesses, maternity care and emergencies.
Can I get private healthcare in Portugal?
If you will be living in Portugal (or spending more than 90 days in the country) it's most likely that you will need private healthcare.
If you have a visa, the Golden Visa or D7 Visa for example, you will need to provide proof of private medical insurance as part of the application process.
FAQs: Healthcare in Portugal
Does Portugal have free healthcare?
Portugal offers public healthcare through the SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde), which provides free or low-cost services to residents. EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can access care, while non-EU residents need private or D7 visa-compatible health insurance - or an S1 Certificate.
What is an SNS number in Portugal?
An SNS number is your personal identification for Portugal’s public health system. It allows you to access medical appointments, prescriptions, and hospital care. All residents, including property owners, should register for an SNS number.
Is health insurance required for the D7 visa in Portugal?
Yes, health insurance is mandatory for D7 visa applicants unless you have an S1 Certificate. You can use private insurance that covers medical expenses in Portugal until you register with the SNS system.
Can I use my EHIC card in Portugal?
Yes, EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access public healthcare in Portugal while temporarily living or traveling in the country. Permanent residency requires registration with the SNS.
How do property buyers access healthcare in Portugal?
Buying property for sale in Portugal does not automatically grant healthcare access. Non-residents must arrange private health insurance initially. Once you have residency or a qualifying visa, you can register with the public SNS system.
