If you are traveling to Portugal from outside the European Union (such as Brazil, the United States, or the UK), travel insurance is not only a smart precaution — it may be required for entry depending on your travel conditions, and it ensures that unexpected medical costs won’t ruin your trip.
Quick Summary for Travelers
- Minimum recommended coverage: At least €30,000 in emergency medical and hospital expenses valid in the entire Schengen Area.
- Must include: Emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, medical repatriation and/or funeral repatriation.
- Recommended: 24/7 assistance in your language and baggage coverage for loss or theft.
- For visas (Schengen, study or residence): Travel insurance covering the whole stay is usually mandatory.
Do You Need Travel Insurance to Enter Portugal?
In general, travelers from outside the EU/EEA may be asked to prove they can cover medical expenses during their stay. When a Schengen visa or residence visa is required, valid travel insurance with €30,000 minimum medical coverage is one of the mandatory documents.
If you are exempt from a tourist visa (for example, citizens from Brazil, the UK, the USA, Canada, etc.), insurance may not always be checked at the border — but it is still highly recommended because:
- emergency medical care in Portugal is not free for tourists;
- hospital costs can easily reach thousands of euros;
- without insurance, the traveler must pay the full amount.
So while it may not always be a strict requirement for entry checks, travel insurance is a practical and legally compliant recommendation for anyone visiting Portugal and the Schengen Area.
How Much Does Travel Insurance for Portugal Cost?
Pricing varies depending on:
- Age of the traveler;
- Length of stay;
- Coverage level (basic vs. full, with or without trip cancellation);
- Pre-existing conditions (can increase cost).
Here are typical price ranges per person:
| Traveler profile | Length | Typical price* |
|---|---|---|
| Young adult (tourism) | 7–15 days | €70 – €150 |
| Families with children | 10–20 days | €150 – €300 |
| Senior travelers (+65) | 7–15 days | €200 – €400 |
| Students / long stay | 30–90+ days | €250 – €600 |
*Average values, may vary by insurer and seasonal demand.
What Should Good Travel Insurance Include?
| Coverage | Recommended | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Medical and hospital expenses | €30,000 minimum (better €50,000–€60,000) | Covers treatment in private and public hospitals. |
| Medical repatriation | Included in policy | Ensures return home in serious events or after death. |
| 24/7 assistance | Support in your language | Simplifies claims and access to medical help at any time. |
| Baggage loss/theft | €800 – €1,200 | Airports in Europe may misplace luggage. |
| Personal liability | High limits | Covers accidental damage to others. |
| Trip cancellation/interruption | Optional | Protects prepaid, non-refundable expenses. |
Insurance for Visas, Students and Long Stay in Portugal
If you are applying for a visa (Schengen, student or residence), you will usually need:
- A policy covering the entire stay;
- Minimum €30,000 medical coverage;
- Validity in all Schengen countries.
Students have access to plans designed for months-long stays, which are often more cost-effective than multiple renewals.
Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions
If you have chronic health conditions (cardiac, diabetes, respiratory issues), make sure to check:
- If the insurer covers or excludes pre-existing conditions;
- Any waiting period before coverage applies;
- Medical support limits for emergencies.
Some insurers offer special add-ons — slightly more expensive, but worth it for peace of mind.
How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance for Portugal
Answer these quick questions to find your ideal plan:
- Purpose of the trip? Tourism, study, work, visiting family?
- How long? Days, weeks, or several months?
- Visiting other European countries? Ensure Schengen coverage.
- Above 60–65 years old or have conditions? Choose strong hospital coverage.
- Carrying valuables? Look for robust baggage protection.
How to Buy Travel Insurance (Quick Guide)
- Select your destination (Portugal / Schengen Area).
- Enter travel dates and traveler details.
- Compare at least 2–3 plans for coverage and price.
- Purchase and receive the policy by e-mail.
- Keep a digital and/or printed copy on your phone when entering Portugal.
FAQ – Travel Insurance for Portugal
Can I Enter Portugal Without Travel Insurance?
It is technically possible for some travelers, but not recommended. A hospital visit without insurance can be extremely expensive.
Does credit card insurance count?
Sometimes, yes — but only if it meets Schengen rules:
- At least €30,000 medical coverage
- Valid for all Schengen countries
- Personalized policy issued with correct travel dates
Does insurance cover public hospitals in Portugal?
Usually yes — but reimbursement rules vary depending on the insurer.
Is insurance for Portugal valid in the rest of Europe?
If it includes Schengen coverage, then yes — it is valid in multiple EU countries.
Do I need insurance if I am moving to Portugal?
For visas and residence permits, insurance or private health coverage is normally required until you are fully registered in the Portuguese health system.
Conclusion
Portugal is a dream destination, from Lisbon to the wine valleys of the Douro, the historic streets of the Porto and the beaches of the Algarve. Having good travel insurance protects that dream from financial stress and ensures you get proper medical care if needed.
Whether for tourism, study or a longer stay, choose a plan with sufficient medical coverage, repatriation, and 24-hour assistance. Then you can focus on discovering local food, exploring historical cities, visiting the Madeira and Azores islands, walking through traditional villages and enjoying the best of Portugal from day one.
Compare a few plans and pick the one that fits your needs, and enjoy Portugal with total peace of mind.