Do I Have to Have Health Insurance to Reside in Portugal?
Summary: Do I have to have health insurance to reside in Portugal?
Yes. When you meet with SEF, Portugal's agency in charge of immigration, one of the requirements is to prove that you have private health insurance.
In How to Get Your First Residence Permit in Portugal, Susan Stults Korthase notes: "A Document proving that the applicant is registered with the Social Security. NOTE: The phrase 'social security' refers to the national health plan. As a Type 1/D Visa holder, you must have private health insurance. You need to provide your proof of private health insurance and proof of payment. This is usually a one-page document with your name, dates the policy is effective and policy coverage amounts."
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Portugal Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Portugal
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Portugal
- Best Places to Live in Portugal
- Real Estate in Portugal
- Guide to Real Estate in Portugal
- Pros & Cons of Living in Portugal
- Cost of Living in Portugal
- Digital Nomads in Portugal
- Tips for Expats in Portugal
- Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal
- 7 Things to Know Before You Move to Portugal
- Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Portugal
- More Advice about Retiring in Portugal