Portugal is a popular destination for retirement for Europeans, but also for retirees from other countries. Factors such as a mild sunny climate, a lower cost of living compared to most other Western European countries, and relatively affordable real estate (though it's getting more and more expensive every year) make it a go-to location for a comfortable and relaxing retirement. With that said, before making any long-term plans, it's equally important to look into the local healthcare system.
What is the healthcare system for retirees in Portugal like?
Portugal has a national healthcare system known as the , offering free healthcare services to Portuguese citizens and foreign residents. The program covers the most essential medical services, though additional fees may sometimes apply.
If you are a citizen of an EU member state and plan to retire in Portugal, you will simply need an (obtained through your local Social Security Coordination institution) from your home country to access Portuguese public healthcare. If you are retiring in Portugal from a non-EU country, you will need to take out private healthcare insurance until you become a legal resident in the country. Regardless of your situation, you'll need to get a Patient Number (Número de Utente) if you seek to use health services in Portugal. That number is automatically attributed to you whenever you visit a public health facility in Portugal for the very first time—just provide your personal information at the front desk and a Número de Utente will be generated. Keep in mind that having a patient number doesn't mean services are free. So that you are officially covered by the SNS system, you'll need to provide your ID number, Portuguese tax number (NIF), address in Portugal and residence permit.
Generally, you will have access to all key healthcare services under SNS. This includes appointments with a general practitioner, specialist visits (provided you are referred by your GP), emergency treatments, prescription medicine, and more. Although the quality of medical care that you will receive under SNS is quite high, you may experience long waiting periods for an appointment or may have to stand in line in a public hospital.
Some Portuguese residents do choose to complement their public healthcare access with private health insurance. This gives them access to more services that are not covered under state insurance. It also allows them to receive treatment in private hospitals, which is often a more efficient and hassle-free solution. As of 2025, it is estimated that over 4 million Portuguese have some sort of private health coverage. Taking out private health insurance comes with a number of other potential benefits:
- Shorter waiting periods for appointments;
- A wider selection of services and treatments;
- A more personal approach and more comfortable facilities;
- Higher chances of finding English-speaking staff at the hospitals.
There are many different options for purchasing private healthcare insurance in Portugal. If you do decide to purchase private insurance, make sure to carefully read through your policy and coverage conditions so that you know how much you may be expected to pay for premiums, deductibles, and co-pays. Traditionally, the older the person, the harder and more expensive it is to get health coverage, as the chances of needing medical treatment and assistance increase as one ages. If you already have health insurance that is valid in Portugal and wish to renew once you hit 60/65, then companies are completely ok with it. However, most insurance companies in Portugal do not accept new policies for elders aged 65 and older. Notable exceptions include the likes of , and . Still, premiums, co-pays, and deductibles are usually pretty high, and the level of coverage can be quite restrictive.
How to make an appointment with a doctor in Portugal
Once you have been given access to public healthcare services or acquired private insurance, you will be able to make an appointment with a doctor.
In most cases, the first doctor you will need to see is a general practitioner/primary care physician. After a medical exam, you will be referred to a specialist (cardiologist, ophthalmologist, etc.) based on the health issue that is bothering you. If you have public health insurance, most of your doctor appointment costs will be covered under SNS. A lot of the time, though, there are public-private partnerships between the SNS and some private institutions that help expedite the process. In this case, the doctor will provide an official exam prescription (P1) that you can show to the health provider. The public healthcare system will then cover the costs of your visit (no need to pay anything upfront). This is especially prevalent for blood work, X-rays and other medical imaging exams or physical therapy sessions. Sometimes, depending on the urgency of the matter, waiting lists and availability of public services (or lack thereof), other procedures may take place in private hospitals under SNS coverage.
In case of a medical emergency in Portugal, you should dial 112, which is the main emergency number in the country and throughout Europe.
As in most other countries in the world, heart and respiratory conditions—as well as orthopedic issues—are the most prevalent health concerns faced by the elderly in Portugal. As the older generations often grapple with diabetes and high cholesterol levels, cardiology and physical therapy are among the most sought-after medical specialties in the country. Luckily, although the National Health System (SNS) can be quite clunky with routine procedures and non-urgent care, it is a fundamental service for most elders in Portugal, as resources are often readily available in more urgent or precarious situations (which older people are more likely to face). That being said, if a pensioner is able to purchase health insurance while at the same time being covered by the SNS, medical services (public or private) for the elderly are easily accessible.
How to stay healthy in Portugal?
In addition to a comprehensive healthcare system, Portugal offers a variety of ways to enjoy a healthy lifestyle.
Portugal is a very pedestrian-friendly country, and you can enjoy long walks both in the Portuguese cities and the countryside. Plus, there are lots of outdoor activities to explore.
A walk home from the local market can be a great way to explore the city, get some fresh air and exercise, but you will also find lots of gyms, yoga studios and other fitness facilities in all the major Portuguese cities.
If there is a particular activity you are interested in, check local social media for clubs and groups that you may want to join. Committing to a fitness-related activity can have a very positive impact on your overall well-being and help you expand your social circle in Portugal.
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