Overview of the Portuguese Healthcare System
Portugal provides healthcare through a dual system: the public Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) and a robust private sector. The public system is tax-funded and provides universal coverage to all residents, including foreign nationals who are legally registered. The system is managed by the Ministry of Health and delivered through a network of local health centers (Centros de Saúde) and public hospitals.
As of 2025, the Portuguese government has emphasized the decentralization of services through Local Health Units (Unidades Locais de Saúde - ULS), which integrate primary and hospital care. While the public system is highly ranked for quality, it often faces challenges with waiting times for non-urgent surgeries and specialist consultations. Consequently, many residents opt for a hybrid approach, using the SNS for primary care and major emergencies while maintaining private insurance for faster access to specialists.
Most primary care services in the public sector are now free of charge. However, small user fees, known as taxas moderadoras, may still apply for specific emergency room visits without a prior referral from the national health line or a GP. For example, an emergency room visit may cost approximately 14 EUR to 18 EUR ($15 USD to $19 USD, Jan 2025) depending on the level of care required.
Public vs. Private Healthcare
Understanding the distinction between the two sectors is essential for foreign nationals planning their medical coverage in Portugal.
The Public System (SNS)
- Eligibility: All legal residents, regardless of nationality or employment status.
- Cost: Primarily free or very low-cost at the point of service.
- Services: Includes preventive care, maternity care, emergency services, and chronic disease management.
- Access: Patients are assigned a family doctor (Médico de Família) at their local health center.
The Private Sector
The private healthcare sector in Portugal has grown significantly. Many expats and locals use private insurance to access hospitals like CUF, Lusíadas, or Hospital da Luz.
- Wait Times: Significantly shorter than the public system for elective procedures and specialists.
- Insurance Costs: Private health insurance premiums for a healthy adult typically range from 30 EUR to 100 EUR per month ($32 USD to $106 USD, Jan 2025).
- Out-of-Pocket: Without insurance, a private GP consultation usually costs between 40 EUR and 60 EUR ($42 USD to $63 USD, Jan 2025).
How to Register for Healthcare
To access the public system, foreign nationals must obtain a National Health Number (Número de Utente). This process should be completed shortly after arriving and obtaining residency.
The following steps are required to register at a local Centro de Saúde:
- Locate your center: You must register at the health center corresponding to your area of residence.
- Required Documents:
- Valid Passport or National ID.
- Residency Permit (Title of Residence) or proof of application for residency.
- Tax Identification Number (NIF).
- Proof of Address (e.g., a utility bill or rental contract).
- Submission: Once the documents are verified, the administrative staff will issue your Número de Utente, which allows you to book appointments via the SNS24 Portal.
Note: EU/EEA citizens staying temporarily can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for necessary medical care, but this does not replace the need for registration if they become long-term residents.
Pharmacies and Emergency Services
Portugal maintains a high standard for pharmaceutical access and emergency response. Pharmacies (Farmácias) are easily identifiable by a green cross and are usually open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with designated 24-hour pharmacies available in every district.
Medication Costs
The SNS subsidizes a portion of the cost of prescribed medications. The subsidy level depends on the type of drug and the patient's clinical need, often covering 15% to 90% of the price. If a medication is not subsidized, a standard box of antibiotics might cost roughly 10 EUR to 20 EUR ($11 USD to $21 USD, Jan 2025).
Emergency Contacts
- 112: The primary European emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance.
- 808 24 24 24 (SNS24): A 24-hour clinical triage hotline. Residents are encouraged to call this number before going to the hospital for non-life-threatening issues. Nurses can provide advice or refer you to a local health center for an urgent appointment, which often waives the emergency room fee.
Exceptions for Non-Residents
Undocumented individuals or those with pending status are still entitled to urgent healthcare and public health services (such as vaccinations and maternal care), though they may be charged the full cost of services if they do not meet specific vulnerability criteria as defined by Portuguese law.