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Brenda.L

After completing her higher education, Brenda joined AnchorLess in 2023. She is an expert on relocation issues in Europe.

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Table of contents

Private healthcare in Portugal
How does healthcare work for expats in Portugal?
What does public health insurance cover?
Healthcare insurance vs. healthcare plan in Portugal
How to get health insurance in Portugal?
Major private healthcare providers in Portugal (what to expect)
What are the costs of health insurance?
How to get health insurance in Portugal?
Health insurance from banks in Portugal
What is the European Health Insurance Card?
How can AnchorLess help you?

Health Insurance Portugal

Healthcare Portugal

Private Healthcare Portugal

Medical Care Portugal

11/11/2024

Health Insurance Portugal for Expats: Private Options

expats private healthcare insurance portugal

Health insurance Portugal typically means one of two things: public coverage through the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) once you’re registered and have an SNS user number (Número Nacional de Utente / NNU), and private health insurance you choose to add for faster access and wider provider choice.

For most expats, the experience of medical care Portugal comes down to timing. The SNS is the backbone of healthcare Portugal, and since 1 June 2022 user fees ended in almost all SNS services, with payment mainly limited to specific emergency-department scenarios. But registration can take time depending on your local health unit, expat communities regularly report being asked to submit documents by email and waiting for the NNU (Utente number) to be issued.

That’s why Private healthcare Portugal is so common among newcomers and internationally mobile residents: it can help you bridge the gap while you complete registration, reduce waiting times for specialists, and make it easier to find English-speaking providers, especially outside Lisbon, Algarve and Porto. For non-urgent guidance while you’re settling in, the official SNS digital front door is SNS24, which supports triage and direction to the right level of care.

In this guide, you’ll learn how health insurance works in Portugal, and how private plans compare, so you can choose the setup that fits your move, budget, and risk profile.

Private healthcare in Portugal

Private healthcare Portugal is often the “fast-lane” option for people who want quicker access to medical care Portugal, more choice of specialists, and add-ons that are limited in the public system (notably dental and optical). It exists alongside healthcare Portugal’s public system (the Serviço Nacional de Saúde - SNS), and many residents use both: SNS for core care and emergencies, private for speed, convenience, and specific coverage.

Private coverage has grown steadily. By the end of 2023, the Portuguese insurers’ association (APS) reported about 3.7 million people with health insurance in Portugal. The insurance regulator’s observatory (ASF) also reports 3.9 million insured people in 2023, and around 4.06 million in 2024 - showing continued growth.

What is health insurance in Portugal?

Health insurance in Portugal is a policy that pays for health insurance coverage in the private sector and can complement public health insurance (SNS). Many residents use private health insurance to get faster access and broader provider choice, while still relying on SNS for core care.

How does healthcare work for expats in Portugal?

Healthcare in Portugal for expats is usually a mix: SNS for baseline coverage once you’re properly registered, plus expat health insurance (private or international health insurance) for faster access, broader provider choice, and extras like dental/vision. Many expats use private for routine/specialist speed and keep SNS as the foundation.

Why expats often choose private healthcare?

Expats most commonly cite three reasons:

Faster access to consultations, diagnostics, and many elective procedures (especially compared to public queues).
More provider choice (including English-speaking clinicians, particularly in larger cities and private hospital groups).
Coverage gaps: dental, optical, and sometimes broader outpatient options are easier to package privately.

Besided all theses reasons there's also the need to comply with AIMA rules. While for the visas foreigners must provide a travel insurance, the requirements for AIMA regarding healthcare is different, as it must show your long-term intention.

Having an SNS user number (número de utente) is not the same thing as having your SNS costs covered. The Portuguese government notes that coverage depends on having key data linked to your registration (e.g., ID, NIF, Portuguese address, and a valid residence authorization where applicable). This is a frequent pain point in expat forums while people are still regularizing status.

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What does public health insurance cover?

Public health insurance (SNS) covers essential medical treatment, including many health services delivered through primary care and hospital care. Access and coverage depend on proper registration (and associated eligibility data), and waiting times can be a constraint for non-urgent pathways.

Healthcare insurance vs. healthcare plan in Portugal

When expats compare private options, the most important decision is usually health insurance (seguro) vs a health plan(plano/cartão).

Health insurance (seguro de saúde)

A health insurance product transfers risk to an insurer: you pay a premium, and the policy pays or reimburses covered services (subject to caps, copays, exclusions, and waiting periods).

Typical coverage includes

outpatient consultations and diagnostic tests
hospitalizations and surgeries
specialist care
optional modules (often dental, vision, maternity, mental health)

Advantages

Broader protection for high-cost events (hospital care, surgery, complex diagnostics).
Network + (often) reimbursement options if you go outside the network (depending on the plan).
Configurable for families and add-ons.

Disadvantages

Age-based pricing is common, and premiums can rise materially over time.
Waiting periods are standard (maternity and some treatments often have longer waits).
Pre-existing conditions may be excluded, limited, or only covered after conditions are met (expats mention this frequently).

What expats say

Many highlight “peace of mind” and faster specialist access.
Recurrent warnings: waiting periods and pre-existing condition limitations.

Healthcare plan (plano de saúde / cartão de descontos)

A healthcare plan typically functions like a discount card within a provider network: it reduces the price you pay, but it is not the same as insurance (it generally does not assume risk the way an insurer does). Consumer organizations and the Portuguese insurance supervisor highlight this distinction.

Advantages

Usually cheaper than insurance.
Often fewer entry barriers (commonly no health questionnaire; fewer exclusions).
Useful for routine care (GP visits, basic exams) at negotiated prices.

Disadvantages

Discounts usually apply only inside the network.
Typically weak protection for hospitalizations/surgeries, where costs can escalate quickly.
Less consumer protection compared with regulated insurance products.

What expats say

People like the simplicity for routine appointments.
Many keep insurance for “big ticket” risks and use plans as a cheaper complement.

Many residence processes require proof of health insurance, not a discount plan. For example, the EU registration certificate (CRUE) documentation includes health coverage requirements depending on your status. And Portuguese visa guidance commonly requires medical insurance compliant with entry/residence conditions. A “plano/cartão” may help you pay less, but it is typically not treated as insurance by authorities because it does not provide insured coverage.

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How to get health insurance in Portugal?

A practical guide to getting health insurance starts with your status and timing: you may need proof for a residence permit, and you’ll typically choose either an insurance policy or a health insurance plan (discount card). After arrival/registration, you’ll also want your SNS health insurance card / user number (número de utente) aligned with your documents.

Major private healthcare providers in Portugal (what to expect)

Portugal has several established private insurance brands and hospital networks. The “best” choice usually depends on:

where you live (network density in your region),
whether you want reimbursement outside the network,
your age, dependents, and health history,
whether you need add-ons (dental/vision/maternity/mental health).

Below are providers expats mention frequently, and what typically differentiates them:

What are the best private health insurance options?

The best private health insurance options depend on your city and needs. Start by shortlisting insurance companieswith strong networks where you live, then compare health insurance on: hospitalization limits, outpatient caps, reimbursement rules, waiting periods, and exclusions. For most expats, “best private health insurance” means the plan that fits their likely usage (routine care vs high-cost risk) at a sustainable premium.

1) Médis

Services: Médis offers a range of comprehensive health insurance plans that include outpatient care, hospitalization, dental services, and mental health coverage.

Their plans are known for providing access to a broad network of healthcare providers across Portugal, with 24/7 customer support through their mobile app. They also offer specialized plans for seniors and families.

Main Plans:

Médis Light: A budget-friendly plan with basic coverage, ideal for younger individuals.
Médis Senior: Tailored for older clients, this plan includes coverage for chronic illnesses and conditions related to aging.
Médis Dental: Offers extensive dental coverage at reduced rates.

Client Opinions: Médis's easy-to-use app and extensive provider network earn it high respect.Expats praise Médis for its efficient customer service and rapid reimbursement processes. However, some users have noted that payments increase significantly with age, and there are some limitations regarding coverage for pre-existing conditions.

Pricing: Prices start as low as €8.30 per month for young adults and increase based on age and coverage level.

Often chosen for: broad provider network, digital tools/app experience, family-style plans.
Good usability and service experiences; recurring concerns about price increases with age and pre-existing limits (common across the market).

2) Allianz Portugal

Services: Allianz offers four distinct health insurance plans, ranging from basic coverage for consultations and hospitalizations to more comprehensive options covering oncology and maternity services. Allianz is also known for its global reach, making it a wonderful option for expats who frequently travel.

Main Plans:

Allianz Base: Includes hospitalizations and some outpatient care, with access to a network of healthcare providers.
Allianz Extra: Covers a broader range of services, including surgeries, specialized treatments, and partial reimbursement for services outside their network.
Allianz Total: Their most comprehensive plan, which includes high coverage for serious illnesses such as cancer and access to top-tier hospitals and specialists.

Client Opinions: Clients praise Allianz for its excellent customer support and flexibility, particularly for those seeking extensive coverage for serious medical conditions. Expats contantly share positive experiences regarding the ease of claiming reimbursements and the overall quality of care provided under Allianz’s network.

Pricing: Prices start at €20 per month for basic coverage and go up depending on the level of services chosen.

Often chosen for: global brand familiarity; useful if you value travel-related continuity (depending on product).
Employer plans can be cost-effective; coverage specifics vary heavily by tier.

3) Fidelidade / Multicare

Services: As the largest health insurance provider in Portugal, Fidelidade’s Multicare brand offers a wide variety of plans, ranging from basic healthcare coverage to more specialized options like mental health and maternity care. Multicare also provides coverage for serious illnesses, such as cancer, with high reimbursement limits.

Main Plans:

Multicare 1/2/3: These tiered plans offer different levels of coverage, with higher levels covering more serious treatments and surgeries.
Multicare Dental: specialized dental coverage with access to a vast network of dental clinics.
Multicare Senior: Tailored for older adults, providing coverage for chronic illnesses and in-home care.

Client Opinion: Clients highly value Multicare's extensive network of healthcare providers and the flexibility of their plans. Many customers highlight the quality of customer service and quick claim processing times. However, as with many providers, prices increases with age are a common complaint.

Pricing: Monthly premiums start at €20 and increase with age and level of coverage.

Often chosen for: scale and network footprint; many tiered options.
Strong network satisfaction, with the usual premium escalation over time.

4) Ageas Seguros

Services: Ageas offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to cater to different needs, including family coverage, senior plans, and dental insurance. They are particularly known for their cancer treatment coverage, which offers high reimbursement limits for oncology services.

Main Plans:

Ageas Família: Provides family coverage, with options to add dependents at discounted rates.
Ageas Sénior: focused on elderly clients, offering extended coverage for chronic illnesses and home care.
Ageas Light: A basic plan offering essential health services at a lower price point.

Client Opinions: Customers highly regard Ageas for its oncology coverage and customer service.

Pricing: Prices start at €10.90 per month for basic coverage.

Often chosen for: bundled family-style offerings and varied tiers; check oncology and high-cost event coverage limits carefully.
Always verify current terms; expat recommendations are usually coverage-specific.

Expats frequently recommend Ageas for those looking for specialized care, particularly for serious illnesses. However, some users mention that their lower-tier plans can feel limited, especially compared to more comprehensive plans.

Ageas was once known as the main insurance provider that catered to immigrants who weren't with a regular status in Portugal. However, we haven't found any information backing this situation presently.

5) MGEN (mutual model)

Services: MGEN is a mutual insurance provider offering a range of health insurance plans, with a strong focus on education sector employees. Their plans include dental coverage, alternative medicine, and mental health services. MGEN stands out for offering coverage to students and providing protection for pre-existing conditions.

Main Plans:

MGEN Essencial: Basic coverage for outpatient care, hospitalizations, and specialist consultations.
MGEN Ideal: Includes more comprehensive coverage such as dental, alternative medicine, and psychiatric care.
MGEN Família: Family plan that offers discounts for adding dependents.

Client Opinions: Customers appreciate the affordability and inclusivity of MGEN, particularly their willingness to cover pre-existing conditions and mental health services. MGEN provides excellent coverage for families and students, and due to it, is very liked by immigrants.

Pricing: Plans start at €54 per month for basic coverage and increase depending on the level of services and family size.

Often chosen for: perceived inclusivity compared with some standard policies (expats frequently discuss it in the context of access and waiting periods).

Mentioned positively for acceptance and specific situations, but still watch waiting periods and policy rules.

6) AdvanceCare

Services: AdvanceCare is known for its digital-first approach to health insurance, offering an easy-to-use app and access to a large network of healthcare providers across Portugal and Spain. Their plans cover everything from routine outpatient care to complex surgeries and cancer treatments.

Main Plans:

AdvanceCare Individual: Tailored for single individuals, covering outpatient and inpatient care.
AdvanceCare Family: Designed for families, with coverage for children and spouses.
AdvanceCare Dental offers extensive dental care at discounted rates.

Client Opinions: Expats praise AdvanceCare for its app, which makes managing claims and appointments easy. They also highlight the convenience of using AdvanceCare’s digital platform, though some have reported that the costs can be slightly higher compared to competitors.

Pricing: Prices start at €7.24 for basic plans.

7) Medicare

Services: Medicare is a health plan provider in Portugal, focusing on offering discounted healthcare services through its extensive network of providers. While it doesn’t function as traditional health insurance, Medicare is ideal for individuals and families who are seeking affordable healthcare options without the need for full hospital coverage. Medicare’s services include discounts on doctor consultations, diagnostic exams, dental care, and some specialist services.

Main Plans:

Medicare Silver Familiar: This is one of the most popular plans, offering access to discounted healthcare services and free dental check-ups for the first six months. It is suitable for both individuals and families, providing basic health coverage.
Medicare Dental: A plan designed specifically for dental care, covering procedures such as cleanings, extractions, and discounted rates on other dental treatments within their network.

Client Opinions: Customers frequently praise Medicare for its affordability and ease of access, particularly for routine healthcare needs. Expats and locals alike find it a beneficial option when they don't require extensive or expensive hospital coverage but still want to access private healthcare services at a lower cost. However, some users point out that it doesn't cover significant medical events like surgeries or hospitalizations, which are only available at discounted rates.

Pricing: Medicare plans start at around €20 per month, making it one of the most budget-friendly healthcare options available. This low cost is particularly attractive to those looking for supplementary coverage or basic healthcare needs without the full cost of private insurance.

What are the costs of health insurance?

The cost of health insurance varies mainly by age, coverage level, copays, exclusions, and add-ons. With private health insurance, the monthly cost can range from low-entry tiers to premium family packages. The most reliable way to find affordable health insurance is to match the plan to your likely usage: routine consultations vs. specialist-heavy needs vs. hospital coverage.

Comparing prices and plans for different age groups

Here’s a price range comparison from some of the most popular private health insurance providers in Portugal based on age groups:

Provider	Type	“Most basic” entry price (from your text)	Best for	What to watch
Médis	Private health insurance	from €8.30/month	Broad network, strong app/digital experience, family-style plans; solid option for everyday medical care Portugal with private speed	Premiums can rise with age; possible limits/exclusions for pre-existing conditions
Allianz Portugal	Private health insurance	from €20/month	Global brand familiarity; can be a good fit for expats who travel or want a recognizable insurer; employer plans may be cost-effective	Pricing and coverage vary heavily by tier; confirm hospitalization limits, outpatient caps, waiting periods, exclusions
Fidelidade / Multicare	Private health insurance	from €20/month	Large footprint and network density; many tiered options; strong for people who want scale and provider availability	Premium escalation over time is commonly reported; validate what’s included at the entry tier
Ageas Seguros	Private health insurance	from €10.90/month	Bundled family-style offerings and varied tiers; often considered when prioritizing serious-illness protection depending on plan	Check oncology/high-cost event limits at the basic tier; confirm reimbursement rules and waiting periods
MGEN (mutual model)	Private health insurance (mutual)	from €54/month	Perceived inclusivity for certain profiles; often discussed positively for acceptance in expat circles (policy-dependent)	Still review waiting periods and policy rules carefully; confirm how coverage scales for families
AdvanceCare	Private health insurance	from €7.24/month	Digital-first experience; app-driven claims/appointments; network access across Portugal and Spain	Some users report slightly higher costs depending on tier; confirm cross-border rules and reimbursement scope
Medicare	Health plan (discount network), not insurance	from €20/month	Budget-friendly access to private consultations/exams/dental discounts for routine healthcare Portugal needs	Not full insurance: major events (hospitalization/surgery) aren’t “covered” like insurance—usually only discounted within network

These are indicative prices for basic plans, which will vary depending on the coverage you choose and any additional services you may require - like hospital stays. For instance, younger expats typically pay lower prices, while older expats might face higher costs due to age-based pricing, as well as pre-existing conditions.

Types of coverage offered by private health insurance in Portugal

Health insurance in Portugal typically includes a variety of coverage options depending on the plan you choose. Common coverage areas include:

Outpatient Care: Consultations with general practitioners and specialists, diagnostic tests, and treatments.
Inpatient Care: Hospital stays, surgeries, and related medical services.
Maternity Care: Coverage for prenatal care, delivery, and postpartum care.
Dental Care: Basic and specialized dental treatments.
Mental health: Services include therapy sessions and psychiatric care, which are available in higher-tier plans.
Cancer Treatment: Many policies, such as Ageas and Médis, offer specialized cancer treatment coverage with high reimbursement limits.
Alternative Medicine: Some plans also include services like osteopathy, acupuncture, and homeopathy.

Prices shown are the lowest publicly advertised entry points for the basic tier (when published). Many bank-distributed policies are quote-based and can change by age, module, copay structure, and region/network density.

How to get health insurance in Portugal?

A good guide to getting health insurance starts with timing. Many expats secure private coverage early (especially if it’s needed for a residence permit) and then register locally for SNS access. Depending on your status, you may also need a health insurance card (or equivalent proof of insurance), and some people choose a health insurance plan (discount program) for routine care while keeping an insurance policy for hospital-risk protection.

How to hire health insurance in Portugal?

Hiring health insurance in Portugal is generally straightforward, but it works best when you treat it as a decision about risk, not just a monthly price.

As an expat, private health insurance can add an extra layer of protection beyond the public system, especially when you want faster access or clearer coverage for specific services.

Below is a step-by-step guide, from choosing a provider to understanding the documentation required.

1) Check your healthcare needs

Before you start looking for health insurance, it’s essential to assess your needs. Ask yourself:

Do you need individual or family coverage?
Are you looking for basic coverage, or do you want a more comprehensive plan that includes dental, mental health, and chronic illness care?
Do you have pre-existing conditions that might affect your choice?
How often do you use medical services? Do you need frequent specialist appointments, diagnostics, or possible surgeries?

The clearer you are here, the easier it becomes to choose a plan that balances coverage and cost.

2) Compare health insurance providers (the right way)

Portugal offers a wide variety of providers, each with different tiers. To find the best fit, compare options from top providers like Médis, Allianz, Fidelidade/Multicare, Ageas, MGEN, and others that match your profile.

You can either research online or use a broker to guide you.

What to compare

Coverage: outpatient care, hospitalization, surgeries, specialist consultations, diagnostics.
Exclusions: especially pre-existing conditions and any “grey zones” (what is and isn’t covered).
Waiting periods: common for maternity, some surgeries, and certain high-cost benefits.
Network: clinics, hospitals, and specialists near your residence (critical if you live outside major cities).
Cost: monthly/annual premiums, copays, deductibles/franchises, and reimbursement rules.

Most companies offer tiered plans, so it’s normal to start at an entry level and upgrade later, just make sure you understand what changes across tiers.

3) Decide whether to use a broker

As an expat, you might find it helpful to use a broker to simplify the process.

Brokers specialize in market comparisons and can help you interpret insurance language, especially if you’re new to Portuguese systems or terms.

Pros of using a broker

They do the legwork of comparing policies and (sometimes) negotiating conditions.
They explain exclusions, coverage limits, and legal/contractual details.
They may have access to special campaigns, bundles, or discounts.

If you prefer to handle it yourself, most insurers offer simple online application flows.

When a broker adds the most value?

You’re unfamiliar with Portuguese insurance terminology
You want side-by-side comparisons across multiple insurers
You have a complex profile (family plan, older age, chronic conditions, maternity planning, etc.)

4) Request a quote (what you’ll be asked for)

Most insurers provide online forms to generate a personalized quote.

You will generally need:

Personal details: full name, date of birth, nationality.
Residency information: mainly your address.
Health information: often a short health questionnaire (pre-existing conditions, past surgeries, ongoing treatments).
Family details: spouse/children, if applying for family coverage.

Some providers may request additional documentation or even a brief medical evaluation for certain tiers or profiles.

Request at least 2-3 quotes using the same assumptions (same add-ons and similar copay structure) so you’re comparing like-for-like. You'll need a NIF for that.

5) Review the policy terms carefully

Before signing, review the terms and make sure you understand:

Coverage limits: maximum amounts for hospitalizations, surgeries, specialist care, and diagnostics.
Exclusions & pre-existing conditions: what is excluded, what is limited, and under what conditions something may become covered.
Reimbursement options: whether you can go outside the network and what percentage is reimbursed.
Waiting periods: when coverage starts and which benefits are delayed.

If anything is unclear, ask the insurer or broker to clarify before you sign.

6) Submit your application

Once you’re satisfied, submit your application.

Online: many insurers allow a fully electronic process (including payment setup).
Through a broker: the broker typically handles forms and ensures the submission is correct.

Depending on the insurer, you may be asked for proof of identity, proof of address/residency, or health-related documents.

7) Set up payment

Insurers typically offer monthly, quarterly, or annual payments. Many offer a discount if you pay annually upfront.

Common payment methods:

Direct debit: from a Portuguese bank account (IBAN).
Credit card: depending on insurer.

8) Receive your insurance card

Once approved and payment is confirmed, you’ll receive your health insurance card (digital and/or physical). You’ll use it when accessing in-network care and, if applicable, when submitting reimbursement claims.

Common documentation needed

Residency permit or proof of legal residency (not always mandatory, but commonly requested depending on provider).
Health records: brief medical history for higher-tier plans or certain profiles.
Bank details: IBAN or card details for payments.

9) Start using your health insurance

Once coverage begins, you can start using your plan.

In-network providers: you typically pay a copay (or sometimes nothing, depending on the plan).
Out-of-network providers: you usually pay upfront and then submit a claim for reimbursement.

Most insurers provide apps to:

find in-network doctors and hospitals
submit claims and upload documents
track spending, limits, and reimbursements

This is one of the main reasons expats prefer private insurance: it makes navigating healthcare in Portugal more predictable, especially during the first year of settling in.

What are the waiting times for medical services?

Waiting times vary by region, specialty, and urgency. In the public system, non-urgent medical services can take longer, especially when demand is high in public hospitals and certain specialties are over-subscribed. Many expats use private coverage specifically to reduce delays across private healthcare services such as specialist consultations, imaging, and elective care.

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Health insurance from banks in Portugal

Several Portuguese banks offer health insurance products through partnerships with major insurers. For many expats, this can be a convenient way to bundle financial services and private healthcare Portugal access, especially if you prefer managing everything inside one app or banking portal.

That said, it’s important to understand what you’re buying. Bank-distributed products can be either:

a true health insurance policy (with coverage, limits, exclusions, and claims rules), or
a health plan/discount card model (lower prices in a network, but not the same as insured coverage).

Your original point is valid in practice: some bank offers can look “plan-like” because they emphasize network discounts and simplicity. However, the safest approach is to treat each offer as case-by-case and confirm whether it is an insurance policy (regulated coverage) or a discount plan (network pricing).

Why consider health insurance through a bank?

Banks can be attractive for expats who want:

Convenience: manage payments, documents, and sometimes claims support in the same environment as your banking.
Customer benefits: some banks provide client perks (campaign discounts, easier payment methods, occasional bundled advantages).
Simplified onboarding: especially helpful if you’re new to healthcare Portugal and want a “one-stop” setup while you settle in and organize medical care Portugal.

Bank health insurance in Portugal: round-up by provider

1) Santander Totta Health Insurance

Partner

Pricing

Plans start at €10.90/month for basic coverage.

6) ActivoBank Health Insurance

Partner

Médis (Millennium BCP Group)

Main features

ActivoBank, as a digital-first bank under Millennium BCP, offers Médis-linked health insurance plans. Coverage typically includes essential services such as outpatient consultations, hospitalizations, and dental care. This option often appeals to younger or more tech-driven clients who want simple digital management.

Client opinions

Users often appreciate the digital onboarding and policy management. Some find customer support less responsive than traditional banks.

Pricing

Starts around €10.90/month, often positioned as a budget-friendly entry option for young professionals and expats.

7) Caixa Agrícola Health Insurance

Partner

Groupama

Main features

Caixa Agrícola offers health insurance plans through Groupama, with options for individuals and families. Plans can include outpatient care, hospitalization, dental services, and network access. This offer is often highlighted for rural communities and agricultural professionals, with solutions shaped around those profiles.

Client opinions

Clients praise the focus on rural needs and tailored solutions. Some suggest digital services could be improved compared to larger banks.

Pricing

Basic plans start at around €7.50/month.

Practical tips before choosing a bank-linked policy

Check what the product really is (insurance vs. plan)

Before you commit, confirm whether the product is:

a true insurance policy (with coverage, claims, exclusions, and waiting periods), or
a network discount plan (lower prices, but not insured coverage).

Compare based on what affects real-life care

To choose the right option for private healthcare Portugal, compare:

network density where you live (clinics/hospitals near your home)
outpatient vs. hospitalization coverage
reimbursement rules (if you want out-of-network freedom)
exclusions and pre-existing condition rules
waiting periods (maternity and some surgeries are common pain points)

This is what tends to determine how smooth your experience will be when you actually need medical care Portugalinside the wider healthcare Portugal system.

What is the European Health Insurance Card?

The european health insurance card (EHIC) is a health insurance card that helps eligible EU/EEA/Swiss visitors access medically necessary state-provided care during temporary stays. UK visitors may use a global health insurance card (GHIC) in similar circumstances. This mainly matters for short stays and travel-related medical care, not for full-time residency planning.

You can only get one (in Portugal) with a NISS. However if you have one from your home country, you can use it only for emergencies.

How can AnchorLess help you?

To hire a health insurance in Portugal, the essential item is always a NIF.

Besides ensuring you are ready to get your visa to move to Portugal, we also offer a NIF issuance service, so you can arrive prepared, either to hire your expat health insurance here, or from abroad.

Final thoughts

Hiring private health insurance in Portugal as an expat is a smart move to ensure access to faster and more specialized care. By carefully assessing your needs, comparing providers, and understanding the terms of your policy, you can find the right coverage for you and your family. You can complete the simple process in a matter of days, whether you choose to go through an insurance broker or apply directly online.

Navigating private healthcare in Portugal can be daunting, especially for expats unfamiliar with the system. However, by understanding the differences between healthcare insurance and healthcare plans and thoroughly researching providers like Médis, Allianz, Ageas, and others, you can make an informed decision that fits your needs and budget.

Whether you opt for comprehensive coverage through a health insurance policy or choose a more affordable healthcare plan, securing private healthcare in Portugal ensures access to quality care when you need it most.

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AnchorLess is not a bank, accounting, tax, investment, or legal advisor. We serve as an intermediary, streamlining your access to accredited financial and legal professionals for your relocation in Europe.