Securing a Golden Visa in Portugal offers more than just residency rights and a path to Portuguese citizenship by investment. It also grants access to the country's well-respected public healthcare system. Here’s what you need to know.
The Basics
As a legal resident through the Golden Visa scheme, you'll be entitled to enrol in Portugal's national healthcare service (Serviço Nacional de Saúde). Registration is straightforward - provide your social security number, ID documents and residence permit at your local health centre. You'll then receive a healthcare card granting discounted or free treatment.
Public Healthcare Coverage
With an SNS healthcare card, you can access a range of services either free or for a small fee of €5-20. This includes emergency treatment, outpatient care, mental health support and maternity services. However, some areas like dental and cosmetic procedures are not subsidised.
The public system has an excellent network of local health centres for primary care needs. You'll be assigned a family doctor as your main point of contact. For specialised treatment, they'll provide referrals to public hospitals if required, though waiting times can vary.
Private Health Insurance
While the public SNS covers essentials, many expats and Golden Visa holders opt for private health insurance too. This allows access to private hospitals and clinics with shorter waiting times and often English-speaking staff.
Typical private insurance plans cover hospital treatment, specialist consultations, diagnostic tests and physical therapy. You can also add extras like dental, maternity or vision care. Expect to pay around €400-1,000 per year depending on the level of coverage.
Your Healthcare Costs
Through SNS, most services at public facilities are free for residents, apart from some nominal fees capped at €20 for GP visits or €40 for tests and exams.
For prescribed medication, you'll pay a portion of the cost with the state subsidising 90% for core medicines down to 15% for non-vital drugs.
Those wanting care purely through private healthcare can expect to pay €40-50 per doctor consultation out-of-pocket.
Finding Medical Care
To register with SNS, contact your local municipal health centre with your documents. They'll assign you a family doctor as the first point of call.
You can book appointments for your GP online or over the phone, though some centres still require in-person visits.
For private care, search online listings to find English-speaking doctors and hospitals near you and contact them directly.
In any emergency situation, call 112 to access ambulance services. You'll receive immediate care regardless of residency status. You’ll be asked for proof of insurance or legal residency afterwards.
Need help getting started on your Portuguese Golden Visa journey? Talk to us today and we can help you every step of the way.