Studying in Portugal is thrilling. The country provides top-notch education, vibrant culture, and affordable living. However, before heading to Lisbon, securing health insurance is crucial. It’s not just a legal necessity but a wise decision. International students must understand not only the requirements but also which insurance providers simplify life in Portugal..
Why Health Insurance Matters for International Students in Portugal
Let’s be clear: If you’re not covered, you’re not compliant.
✅ Visa Requirement for Non-EU/EEA Nationals
If you’re coming from a non-EU or non-EEA country, you’ll need private health insurance with coverage of at least €30,000. This insurance must include:
- Medical care
- Emergency treatment
- Hospitalization
- Medical repatriation
And yes — you need it before you apply for your visa.
🟩 EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals
EU or EEA students can use Portugal’s public health system with their EHIC. However, EHIC doesn’t cover repatriation, dental care, or private hospitals. Consider a private plan.
Public vs Private Insurance in Portugal
Portugal’s Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) is solid. For residents, it offers good basic care at a low cost.
But it has limitations:
- Long wait times
- Limited English-language support
- No dental or vision coverage
- No repatriation or emergency evacuation
Private insurance excels by offering quicker, English-speaking care and superior hospital access. Crucially, it fulfills visa requirements and delivers worldwide assistance, vital in emergencies.
The Top 10 Health Insurance Providers for International Students in Portugal
Here’s a curated list of top options — each with strengths tailored to the needs of international students.
1. Cigna Global
Why it’s popular: Trusted by students and expats globally. It’s flexible and straightforward.
- Coverage: Offers tiered plans (Silver, Gold, Platinum)
- Eligibility: All nationalities
- Key Benefits: 24/7 customer service, easy online application, hospital access in Portugal and abroad
- Meets Visa Requirements? ✅ Yes
View this post on Instagram
If you’re planning to travel around Europe or want modular add-ons like dental and mental health, Cigna’s global network makes it a strong pick.
🔗 https://www.cignaglobal.com/where-we-cover/portugal
2. Allianz Care
Why it stands out: Global name. Reliable service. Great digital tools.
- Coverage: Emergency, routine checkups, hospitalization
- Eligibility: All international students
- Key Benefits: Customizable plans, user-friendly claim submission, mobile app access
- Meets Visa Requirements? ✅ Yes
View this post on Instagram
For those seeking a bit more sophistication and multilingual support, Allianz Care’s student plans are an excellent fit.
🔗https://www.allianzcare.com/en/personal-international-health-insurance/who-we-help/students.html
3. Swisscare
Why students love it: Affordable and fast.
- Coverage: €30,000+, medical repatriation, hospitalization
- Eligibility: Required for Non-EU/EEA; Recommended for EU students too
- Key Benefits: Instant online policy, multilingual app, low premiums
- Meets Visa Requirements? ✅ Yes
View this post on Instagram
Especially great for short-term or budget-focused students who still want peace of mind.
🔗 https://swisscare.com/en/country/portugal
4. IMG Global
Why it works: It caters specifically to students and travelers abroad.
- Coverage: Medical, emergency, mental health, evacuation
- Eligibility: All international students
- Key Benefits: Multiple plan tiers, affordable options, 24/7 emergency services
- Meets Visa Requirements? ✅ Yes
If you’re looking for an internationally respected plan that keeps things simple — IMG is reliable and adaptable.
🔗https://www.imglobal.com/international-student-insurance
5. April International
Why it’s good for multilingual students: Great support and portability across Europe.
- Coverage: Medical, specialist care, evacuation, dental, repatriation
- Eligibility: Students in Portugal
- Key Benefits: Schengen-compliant, strong European hospital network
- Meets Visa Requirements? ✅ Yes
View this post on Instagram
French-founded, April’s strength lies in user flexibility and strong customer support, especially for European travelers.
🔗 https://www.april-international.com/en/destinations/europe/health-insurance-in-portugal
6. International Student Insurance (ISI)
Why this portal matters: It’s a one-stop-shop for comparing policies.
- Coverage: Medical, prescriptions, mental health, emergency evacuation
- Eligibility: International students
- Key Benefits: Custom quotes, monthly terms, student-focused
- Meets Visa Requirements? ✅ Yes
View this post on Instagram
Think of this as your comparison engine — great if you’re unsure which direction to take and want to weigh your options side-by-side.
🔗 https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com/portugal-student-insurance/
7. Bupa Global
Why it’s premium: Offers high-end healthcare access across the world.
- Coverage: Global network, inpatient, outpatient, mental health
- Eligibility: All nationalities
- Key Benefits: Luxury coverage, top-tier hospitals
- Meets Visa Requirements? ✅ Yes
For those who prioritize top-quality care — or have scholarship funding or parental support — Bupa delivers on value and reputation.
View this post on Instagram
🔗 https://www.bupaglobal.com/en/private-health-insurance/pt
8. AXA Global Healthcare
Why it’s modern: Strong on digital claims and smart policy management.
- Coverage: Medical, evacuation, repatriation, hospitalization
- Eligibility: International students and expats
- Key Benefits: Digital tools, quick reimbursements, clear English documents
- Meets Visa Requirements? ✅ Yes
View this post on Instagram
It’s a modern solution for digital natives who want to avoid paperwork and long wait times.
🔗 https://www.axaglobalhealthcare.com/en/international-health-insurance/portugal/
9. PassportCard
Why it’s unique: You don’t need to pay out of pocket first.
- Coverage: Immediate care, hospitalization, global travel
- Eligibility: All international students and travelers
- Key Benefits: Prepaid insurance card, real-time payments
- Meets Visa Requirements? ✅ Yes
View this post on Instagram
If you’re worried about reimbursement delays or don’t want the hassle of submitting receipts — this is a game-changer.
10. Médicis (Ageas) and Multicare (Fidelidade)
Why go local: Trusted within Portugal with strong hospital networks.
- Coverage: Access to private clinics, dental, outpatient
- Eligibility: Residents and students
- Key Benefits: Local customer support, often recommended by Portuguese universities
- Meets Visa Requirements? ✅ Yes
If you’re staying for a longer term or want good access to Portuguese care, local insurers might offer better integration with the national system.
What to Look for in a Good Plan
Every student is different. But some things are non-negotiable:
| Must-Have Features | Why It Matters |
| €30,000+ Coverage | Required for visas and adequate for emergency care |
| Repatriation & Evacuation | Crucial in case of serious health events or accidents |
| 24/7 Customer Support | Health crises don’t follow business hours |
| Multilingual Services | Especially if you’re not fluent in Portuguese |
| Prescription & Mental Health | Often overlooked, but essential during high-stress studies |
| Dental (Optional) | Helpful if you plan a longer stay or have pre-existing issues |
| Digital Claims | Saves time and paperwork, especially while juggling coursework |
Final Thoughts: Insurance Is Not Just a Formality
As an international student in Portugal, selecting the right health insurance is crucial not only for visa compliance but also for your peace of mind. It’s essential to ensure that in case of any health issues, your focus remains on recovery rather than financial strain. Consider comprehensive global plans like Cigna or Allianz for extensive coverage, or opt for more budget-friendly options like Swisscare or IMG. Always scrutinize the details, compare benefits, and consult your university’s advice to make an informed decision.
It’s your future. Protect it wisely.
Useful Links and Resources
- https://swisscare.com/en/country/portugal
- https://www.cignaglobal.com/where-we-cover/portugal
- https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/en/short-stay-visas-schengen/required-documentation/travel-medical-insurance
- https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com/portugal-student-insurance/
- https://www.allianzcare.com/en/personal-international-health-insurance/who-we-help/students.html
Need help choosing a plan that suits your program, lifestyle, and budget? Contact your university’s international office. They have experience and often offer discounts through preferred partners. Stay safe, stay covered, and enjoy Portugal.
