If you are not covered by a public health insurance, it is highly recommended that you are covered by a private insurance. Most private health insurance policies don't pay family doctors' fees or for medication that isn't provided in a hospital. Often, there will also be an 'excess' of around EUR75 more than the cost of treatment. Most will, however, pay for 100 per cent of specialists' fees and hospital treatment in the best Portuguese hospitals.
The cost of comprehensive private insurance with a Portuguese company varies considerably and can be very expensive, although young families can expect comprehensive coverage at competitive rates.
Update 11/03/2016
Expatriate health insurance in Portugal
With so much to deal with before leaving your home country, (taxes, moving house, paperwork etc.) the careful planning of your expatriation to Lisbon is an essential step. As far as healthcare is concerned, your local social security scheme won’t be accompanying you to your host country and, once abroad, you might be surprised by the care system you find in Portugal So, before leaving, make sure you have appropriate cover!
Cigna is one of the world's biggest international insurers with more than 30 years' experience in providing global health insurance across 200 countries and territories. They have access to more than 1.65 million hospitals, physicians, clinics and specialists worldwide.
Cigna Global's flexible plans are specifically designed for expats and globally mobile individuals who move to Portugal. All their plans can be tailored to your individual requirements in Portugal, always finding the right healthcare solution, whatever the situation and budget.
Getting a health insurance quote
Create your perfect plan with Cigna and combine the reassurance of comprehensive inpatient cover with the flexibility of optional extra benefits.
Click on the button to access the online tool and get a quote in 2 minutes.
14/12/2010