Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Portugal?

When planning a move to Portugal as an expat or digital nomad, understanding the health insurance requirements is crucial. Portugal requires visitors staying longer than 90 days to have health insurance that meets specific criteria. The insurance must cover medical expenses up to at least €30,000, including repatriation, emergency hospital treatment, and other necessary medical care. Additionally, the policy should be valid for the entire duration of your stay and cover the period before you are enrolled in the public healthcare system or obtain residency.

Does Expat Health Insurance Meet the Requirements?

Yes, expat health insurance plans typically meet the requirements set by Portugal. These plans are designed to provide comprehensive coverage for individuals living abroad. When selecting an expat health insurance plan, ensure it covers medical expenses up to at least €30,000 and includes repatriation and emergency hospital treatment. It is also essential to confirm that the policy is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Portugal.

Which Local Health Insurers Offer This Type of Insurance?

Several local health insurers in Portugal offer plans that meet the requirements for expats and digital nomads. Some of the prominent local insurers include Médis, Multicare, and Allianz Care Portugal. These companies provide a range of health insurance plans tailored to the needs of foreign residents. Their policies typically include inpatient and outpatient care, emergency services, and repatriation, ensuring compliance with the country's requirements. It is recommended to compare plans from different insurers to find the one that best suits your needs and budget.

Advice from Expats in Portugal about Health Insurance

Expats in Portugal share valuable advice for newcomers seeking health insurance. They recommend looking for plans that offer comprehensive coverage, including dental and vision care, as these may not be fully covered by the public healthcare system. Additionally, consider policies that provide direct billing options to avoid upfront payments at healthcare facilities. Expats also advise choosing insurers with a strong network of healthcare providers and efficient customer service to ensure smooth and convenient access to medical care. Lastly, be sure to review the fine print of any policy, paying close attention to deductibles, co-payments, and exclusions, to make an informed decision.

Expats Talk about Health Insurance in Portugal

"We are required to have a private policy that meets the Schengen Community requirements (go to their website). The highest quality of coverage won't cost more than 3,000 euros a person/year (2017) and most retirees are paying only 2,000 euros annually. This includes dental and eye care, surgeries, private hospital room, unlimited doctor visits and tests," said one expat who moved to Lisbon, Portugal.

"The cost of public medical care in Portugal is affordable once you're on the National Health System. I have not yet used the private services, so I can't compare their costs, but everyone I know who uses them (especially Americans) says the cost is relatively low. In Portugal there are small co-pays, which are cheaper than in the States (when I lived there), but I've never had to pay a co-pay in Canada (and I've lived in 5 provinces)," mentioned one expat when asked about moving to Portugal.

"Healthcare rates are somewhat dependent on your age. I am 69 I pay about $180 a month with MGen. I don't have the lowest benefit or the highest, I am somewhere in the middle. I went with MGen for the following reasons. No limit on renewability...my age will never disqualify me from renewing my plan. They accept pre-existing conditions. I used a service called Serenity to help me navigate the various healthcare providers. You can do this yourself, I just preferred not to. If you join Afpop I believe you can buy MGen through them and get a discounted rate," stated one expat in Albufeira, Portugal.

"I just obtained private insurance through Millenium Bank. Since I am 70 (oops - 71 today). I am limited in companies that will write me. The company is Medis (sp?) and will cost me 30 euros per month. A STEAL - compared to the $230 I'm paying in the US for a Medicare Supplement. They will write people up to 75 Ana, once written, must continue to renew. There is a 60-day waiting period, so the bank will process it 60 days before I move there," remarked one expat in Portugal.