Portugal attracts thousands of international students every year.
The country is known for its safety, rich culture, warm climate, and universities that welcome students from all over the world. But before classes begin—and before visas are approved—one requirement always stands at the forefront: health insurance.

Health insurance in Portugal is not just a formality.
It determines how quickly you can access services, how much you pay for medical care, and whether your visa or residence permit will be approved. The system is straightforward once you understand the rules, but many students and families find themselves confused because requirements differ by nationality, university policies, and even the type of residence visa they apply for.

This guide explains everything clearly.
It breaks down the rules for EU and non-EU students, outlines the most reputable insurers, shows realistic cost expectations, and offers practical tips to help you find the right plan for yourself—and your family—during your studies.

Let’s begin with the basics.

1. Health Insurance Requirements for International Students in Portugal

Portugal offers public healthcare through the SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde), a universal system known for quality and affordability.
But access to SNS is not automatic for foreign students. Your nationality dictates how you enter the system, while your visa status determines which documents you must present.

Here’s how it works.

A. EU/EEA Students: EHIC as the Primary Option

Students arriving from EU/EEA countries can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
This card grants access to medically necessary care in Portugal’s public health system, usually at the same cost paid by Portuguese citizens.

EHIC is a strong start.
It covers doctor visits, emergency care, hospital services, and essential treatment across the EU.

But EHIC has limits.
It does not cover:

• Private clinic fees
  
• Repatriation
  
• Evacuation
  
• Dental services
  
• Optical care
  
• Extensive outpatient benefits
  

Because of this, many EU students choose an additional private plan—especially when traveling, participating in exchange programs, or living with dependants.

B. Non-EU/EEA Students: Mandatory Private Insurance

Non-EU/EEA students face stricter requirements.
They must purchase private health insurance before arriving in Portugal. This insurance must:

• Meet visa requirements
  
• Provide minimum €30,000 coverage for medical expenses
  
• Include emergency evacuation and repatriation
  
• Remain valid for the entire duration of the residence permit
  

This policy is checked carefully during:

• The study visa application
  
• Border control, in some cases
  
• The residence permit appointment with SEF (Immigration and Borders Service)
  

Without a valid insurance policy, students cannot complete their enrollment or residency process.

C. University Partner Insurance Plans

Many Portuguese universities partner with insurers such as Médis and Multicare.
These plans integrate with the public system (SNS), cover on-campus medical services, and are extremely affordable—typically €15–€30 per month for students.

While these plans are attractive, families must be cautious.
Some university packages do not extend coverage to spouses or children, and benefits vary from institution to institution. Always check eligibility and coverage limits before choosing a partner plan.

D. Family Coverage Options

Family coverage is available through:

• Local Portuguese insurers
  
• International medical insurance providers
  
• University partner plans (only when allowed)
  

Most non-EU student families choose international insurance during their first year because:

• Registration with SNS can take time
  
• Many local insurers require Portuguese tax numbers and bank accounts
  
• International plans offer broader benefits, especially for travel, maternity, and evacuation
  

Once students obtain residence permits, some shift to local insurance for long-term savings.

2. Top 10 Family Medical Insurance Providers in Portugal

Below are the ten most commonly used insurance providers for international students and their families. Each offers different strengths, price ranges, and coverage styles.

1. Swisscare Student Europe

Typical Cost: €197/year (student); family plans available
Why families choose it:
Swisscare provides visa-compliant coverage designed for students relocating to Europe. The policy includes emergency care, hospitalisation, repatriation, and medical assistance. It is simple, affordable, and recognized by Portuguese consulates worldwide.

2. Aon Student Insurance

Typical Cost: €150–€250/year
Why families choose it:
Aon offers comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, liability, and legal expenses. Plans are specifically designed for international students in Europe and include family add-on options. Many universities recommend Aon for its reliability and customer support.

3. International Student Insurance (ISI)

Typical Cost: €150–€300/year
Why families choose it:
ISI offers broad protection for medical care, accidents, liability, and visa compliance. Their plans are flexible, with options for outpatient care and additional family members. ISI is especially popular among students who move between countries.

4. Médis (University Partner Insurance)

Typical Cost: €15–€30/month
Why families choose it:
Médis partners with multiple universities and offers highly affordable plans that integrate with the SNS system. Coverage often includes doctor visits, emergency care, and campus health services. It’s ideal for students who want an easy, low-cost solution.

5. Multicare (University Partner Insurance)

Typical Cost: €15–€30/month
Why families choose it:
Like Médis, Multicare works with Portuguese universities to offer low-cost health plans. These often include access to SNS and university clinics. Students should verify whether dependants can be added.

6. AXA Global Healthcare

Typical Cost: €150–€300/year
Why families choose it:
AXA provides international health insurance with strong hospital, outpatient, and evacuation benefits. Families who travel often or expect maternity care appreciate AXA’s global network and modular options.

7. Allianz Care

Typical Cost: €150–€300/year
Why families choose it:
Allianz offers worldwide coverage, private rooms, outpatient benefits, and evacuation services. It is ideal for families seeking comprehensive and premium coverage throughout Europe and beyond.

8. Bupa Global

Typical Cost: €150–€300/year
Why families choose it:
Bupa is known for its premium international plans, which include inpatient and outpatient care, dental, optical, and maternity services. Families wanting high-limit coverage prefer Bupa for long-term security.

9. Cigna Global

Typical Cost: €150–€300/year
Why families choose it:
Cigna’s modular plans allow families to choose exactly what they need—whether it’s maternity, dental, mental health, or worldwide emergency benefits. Its global network is particularly valuable for families who frequently travel.

10. GeoBlue

Typical Cost: €150–€300/year
Why families choose it:
GeoBlue combines U.S.-style insurance with European networks. Its plans include emergency care, outpatient services, and evacuation. Families with ties to the United States find GeoBlue especially reassuring.

3. Typical Costs for Students and Families in Portugal

Portugal is known for affordable healthcare, and this is reflected in insurance prices as well.
Here’s a realistic overview.

A. Student-Only Plans

Most student policies cost between €150–€300 per year, depending on:

• Age
  
• Coverage level
  
• Add-on benefits
  
• Visa needs
  

These plans are designed to be simple and compliant with Portuguese immigration requirements.

B. Family Insurance Plans

Plans that include a spouse and children start at around €300 per year and can reach €600 or more depending on:

• Number of dependants
  
• Coverage limits
  
• Inpatient vs outpatient benefits
  
• Evacuation or repatriation features
  

These plans offer a balance between affordability and comprehensive protection.

C. Premium International Plans

Families expecting extensive coverage—such as maternity, dental, optical, mental health, or worldwide hospital access—typically pay between €500 and €1,000+ per year.

These plans are ideal for:

• Long-term stays
  
• Families wanting high-limit protection
  
• Students who travel across Europe

4. Practical Tips for Choosing the Best Insurance in Portugal

Health insurance seems complex until you understand what to look for.
Here are actionable tips that can save you money, prevent visa delays, and ensure smooth access to healthcare.

Tip 1: Non-EU Students Must Meet the €30,000 Minimum

Portugal requires non-EU/EEA students to show €30,000 minimum coverage, including:

• Medical emergencies
  
• Hospitalisation
  
• Repatriation
  
• Evacuation
  

Always ensure your policy explicitly states these requirements.

Tip 2: EHIC Is Useful but Limited

If you’re from the EU/EEA, EHIC grants access to Portuguese public healthcare.
But it does not cover:

• Dental care
  
• Optical benefits
  
• Private hospitals
  
• Travel emergencies
  
• Repatriation
  

Pairing EHIC with a private plan fills these gaps, especially for families.

Tip 3: University Partner Plans Are Affordable but May Be Limited

Médis and Multicare offer low-cost student plans.
They integrate well with SNS and are easy to obtain.

However:

• Not all family members may qualify
  
• Coverage is sometimes limited to basic care
  
• Policies may not include evacuation or repatriation
  

If you have dependants, confirm eligibility before purchase.

Tip 4: Always Check Waiting Periods

Maternity, dental, and optical benefits typically have waiting periods.
These can range from 6 to 12 months.

If your family expects to use these services, choose a plan with shorter waiting times—or one that allows immediate access.

Tip 5: Look for Repatriation and Evacuation Benefits

Repatriation is essential, especially for non-EU students.
Portugal’s public system does not cover evacuation or transportation back to your home country in emergencies.

A strong private plan should include both.

Tip 6: Compare Annual Limits and Deductibles

High annual limits and low deductibles improve financial protection but increase premiums.
Decide how much risk you are willing to take.

For families, higher coverage limits are typically worth the investment.

Tip 7: Confirm Visa Compliance Before Buying

Portugal does not accept every policy for visa purposes.
Make sure your insurer can provide:

• Visa-compliant wording
  
• Policy in English or Portuguese
  
• Clear coverage limits
  
• Proof-of-insurance letters
  

This prevents embassy or SEF delays.

Choosing the Right Family Health Insurance for Your Studies in Portugal

Portugal offers a welcoming environment for international students and their families.
But navigating insurance requirements—especially with dependants—requires thoughtful planning.

Start with your nationality.
If you’re non-EU, ensure your policy meets visa requirements.
If you’re from the EU, supplement your EHIC for full protection.

Then evaluate whether university partner plans are suitable for your family.
They can be cost-effective, but may not provide all the benefits your dependants need.

Finally, consider the broader set of international insurers offering flexible, global coverage.
For many families, this is the most reliable and predictable option.

References:

• Allianz Care. (2024). International student and family medical insurance plans. https://www.allianzcare.com
• AXA Global Healthcare. (2024). International health insurance for expatriates and students. https://www.axaglobalhealthcare.com
• Bupa Global. (2024). Worldwide medical insurance plans. https://www.bupaglobal.com
• Cigna Global. (2024). International health insurance for globally mobile individuals. https://www.cignaglobal.com
• GeoBlue. (2024). International medical insurance for students and travellers. https://www.geobluetravelinsurance.com
• International Student Insurance. (2024). Insurance for international students in Portugal. https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com
• Aon Student Insurance. (2024). Student and family health insurance plans. https://www.aonstudentinsurance.com
• Médis. (2024). Health insurance plans and university partnerships. https://www.medis.pt
• Multicare. (2024). Health insurance plans and student coverage options. https://www.multicare.pt
• Swisscare. (2024). Student Europe visa-compliant health insurance. https://www.swisscare.com
• Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (2024). Visa and residence permit health insurance requirements. https://www.vistos.mne.gov.pt