A Full Guide to Private Health Insurance in the Algarve (2025)

 If you're moving to Portugal, or already living in places like Lagos, Portimão or Albufeira, one of the most important things to sort out early is health insurance.

Yes, Portugal has a strong public health system (SNS), but for many expats, private health insurance makes life much easier. Faster appointments, English-speaking doctors, and flexible coverage options all make private plans worth considering, especially if you're still waiting for residency or want to avoid long queues at public facilities.

Let’s break down everything you need to know in 2025, including pricing and provider options.

Why Private Health Insurance?

Portugal’s SNS system is accessible and affordable for legal residents, but it’s not always the fastest. Here in the Algarve, especially in high-demand areas like Lagos, public appointments can take weeks, or even months, unless it’s an emergency.

Private insurance helps you:

- See specialists quickly

- Book appointments in English-speaking clinics

- Access private hospitals and outpatient facilities

- Cover services like dental, vision and maternity (not usually included in SNS)

For new arrivals who don’t yet qualify for SNS, or retirees on visas like the D7 or digital nomad visa, private insurance is also mandatory, at least until residency is approved.

What Does Private Insurance Cost in Portugal? (As of June 2025)

Prices vary depending on your age, health, and what kind of coverage you choose. Here's a ballpark idea of what to expect based on current rates:

Example: A couple in their 60s living in Lagos pays around €270/month with Médis, including both inpatient and outpatient care, plus dental.

Keep in mind: plans with just hospitalisation (inpatient only) are much cheaper than plans that include specialist visits, exams, and dental. It all depends on what level of peace of mind you're after.

Which Providers Are Available?

You’ll find both local Portuguese insurers and international providers offering plans for expats. Here's a quick breakdown:

Portuguese Providers

- Médis – One of the most popular; wide network, good value for young/mid-age expats

- Multicare (Fidelidade) – Offers tiered plans with strong coverage for families and seniors

- AdvanceCare (through insurers like Allianz or Generali) – Great for flexible coverage

- Tranquilidade / Zurich – Often recommended for expats and retirees

- MGEN – Accepts some pre-existing conditions, popular with older expats

International Options

- Cigna Global

- Bupa Global

- Allianz Worldwide Care

- PassportCard

These are useful if you travel often or want coverage outside Portugal, but they’re usually more expensive than local insurers.

Things to Consider Before You Buy

Not all plans are created equal. Here’s what to look at closely:

- Inpatient vs. outpatient: Inpatient-only plans cover hospital stays and emergencies. Outpatient plans cover GP visits, diagnostics, and consultations. For those unfamiliar with the term, outpatient coverage typically includes visits to general practitioners (GPs), specialists, diagnostic tests like blood work or X-rays, and minor treatments that don’t require an overnight hospital stay. It’s a core part of routine healthcare in Europe.

- Pre-existing conditions: Most insurers do not cover these unless specifically noted (MGEN is one exception).

- Waiting periods: Many plans have a waiting period for things like surgeries or maternity. Read the fine print.

- Deductibles and co-pays: Some plans require you to pay part of the costs (e.g., €15–€25 per appointment).

- Annual price increases: Expect premiums to increase by 5–15% per year, depending on age and insurer.

What About Lagos?

Lagos has both public and private options. The public hospital (Hospital de Lagos) is part of the SNS and covers emergencies and basic care.

Private options nearby include:

- Clínica Particular do Algarve – locations in Lagos, Portimão and Faro

- HPA Saúde – well-known private hospital group with an international team

- Hospital Particular do Algarve in Alvor – 30–40 minutes from Lagos

- Luzdoc – private GP and wellness clinic in Praia da Luz

These facilities often work with insurers like Médis, Multicare and AdvanceCare, so it’s important to check if your policy includes your preferred clinics.

New Residents and Visa Requirements

If you're applying for specific visas, such as the D7 visa or other D class visas, you’ll need private health insurance in place to prove you're covered when applying. Most consulates want a policy that offers:

- Minimum €30,000–€50,000 in coverage

- Coverage across the EU or Portugal

- Proof of no waiting periods for emergencies

Once you become a legal resident, you can apply for SNS access, but many expats still keep private insurance for convenience.

How to Register for Public Healthcare (SNS)

Once your residency is approved, you’ll be eligible to register for Portugal’s public healthcare system, known as the SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde). This is typically done at your local health center (Centro de Saúde). You’ll need your residency certificate, tax number (NIF), and ID/passport. After registration, you’ll be assigned a local GP (médico de família) and can access subsidised healthcare services.

Summary

Private health insurance makes life in the Algarve a lot smoother, and more worry-free. 

The good news? Portugal’s healthcare remains excellent and affordable by international standards. With a bit of research, and the right coverage, you’ll be well looked after, whatever comes your way.