Portuguese Golden Residency holders enjoy a high-quality healthcare system that combines public, private, and semi-private care options provided by the Portuguese National Health Service and numerous private providers.

Portugal offers a range of medical services to Portugal Golden Visa holders and visitors, from public hospitals to health centers and specialized clinics.

Portugal’s healthcare system is tax-based, making it relatively inexpensive and sometimes even free. This system covers primary healthcare, medical treatments, and emergency services.

Portugal ranks 23rd globally in the quality of medical services according to the Numbeo Healthcare Index. To benefit from the Portuguese healthcare system, you must register with the National Health System and obtain a health user number.

It’s worth noting that pharmacists in Portugal are trained to meet basic needs and provide excellent service. Vaccinations are provided free of charge, along with special programs for diseases such as diabetes and cancer.

European Social Security and Portuguese Golden Residency

The Portuguese Social Security (NISS) is a mandatory registration service, not only for Portuguese citizens but also for residents, particularly holders of the Portuguese Golden Residency.

The benefits of social security lie in providing essential services to workers and residents, including social security, healthcare, unemployment protection, maternity and paternity leave, disability support, and retirement benefits.

This service is integrated with the Portuguese National Insurance Service (SNS) to provide comprehensive protection and medical coverage. It can also be used for travel, employment, housing, and education services.

Registration to this service is required in certain cases, including starting a business, even if self-employed, for holders of Portugal residence by investment, those wishing to benefit from the Portuguese healthcare system, and those wishing to access family, retirement, and travel services.

To register for this service, you will need several documents, including your identity, tax number, proof of address, work documents, birth certificate, marriage certificate, residence permit, bank account details, employment and professional information, and special forms.

The registration process begins with identity verification, followed by obtaining a Portuguese tax number (NIF), preparing the necessary documents, registering, and submitting the application with supporting documents. Your data will then be verified, and you will be issued a National Social Security Number.

European health insurance and Portuguese Golden Residency

The healthcare system is an exceptional advantage for those considering the Portuguese Golden Residency. This system provides public or private health insurance from the National Health Insurance Scheme (SNS) with comprehensive coverage for residents.

Residents with Portuguese residency can obtain public health insurance, but only by registering at a local health center and obtaining a user number. Comprehensive care is provided to residents, at lower fees, but with less modern facilities and longer waiting times compared to private insurance.

However, private insurance is preferred due to its ease of access and the modernity of its features offered by reputable companies. Its costs depend on age and pre-existing medical conditions, but its drawback is that it tends to increase with age.

There is a third type of insurance, called international insurance, which is particularly beneficial for frequent travelers, including holders of the Portuguese Golden Residency. However, its premiums are higher than the previous two types.

To choose the best type of insurance, you should consider your budget, health needs, and other factors such as pre-existing medical conditions, the extent of your travel, etc. With these three methods, you will have flexibility in choosing the type that best suits you.

Launching a campaign for Portuguese Golden Residency holders

The Portuguese Golden Residency Unit has launched a special service for golden visa holders from Portugal, allowing them to obtain three of the most important numbers related to required health services at once.

This service was launched in March 2025. These three important numbers are the National Tax Number (NIF), the Social Security Number (NISS), and the Health System Number (SNS). This service is currently available at 10 centers across the country.

This service covers Portuguese Golden Residency holders who have applied or are considering applying for this program. It helps them accelerate their integration into the European healthcare system in Portugal, including access to employment opportunities and other social services.

For more information about the Portuguese Golden Residency Program, contact one of our advisors. We are a globally accredited office for European residency by investment and citizenship by investment programs worldwide.