Healthcare
SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde Portugal)
Also known as: SNS, Portuguese National Health Service, Portugal NHS
Quick answer
Portuguese Government — obtain an SNS user number · Portuguese Government — abolition of most user fees · checked 9 Nov 2026
Portugal's government says foreign nationals can receive a user number when they first contact a public health facility, or request one even when they do not need care. Obtaining the number is free.
For ordinary SNS funding of a foreign resident's care, the government lists an identification document, Portuguese tax number, full Portuguese address and valid residence permit associated with the registration. Legal exceptions can apply.
Since the June 2022 fee reform, routine SNS user fees have been abolished. Hospital emergency fees can remain when the patient has no SNS referral and is not admitted to hospital, subject to exemptions. Check registration and funding status with the health service before relying on coverage.
Sources
- Portuguese Government — obtain an SNS user number · checked 9 Nov 2026
- Portuguese Government — abolition of most user fees · checked 9 Nov 2026
Related terms
International Health Insurance
International private medical insurance provides health cover for people living abroad, subject to the policy's geographic area, benefits and exclusions. Outpatient care, maternity and other benefits may require a particular plan or additional cover.
D7 Visa (Portugal Passive Income Visa)
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EHIC / GHIC Card
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