If you’re living in Portugal and planning a holiday or business trip to another European country, there’s a little blue card you’ll want to make sure you pack along with your passport: the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This free card gives Portuguese residents access to public healthcare in 31 participating countries under the same conditions and costs as locals. Note that we mentioned “public” and not “private” as the EHIC does not grant holders access to private healthcare services. Despite this, the EHIC can be a reassuring safety net while you are traveling throughout these 31 countries.
Let’s walk through what the EHIC covers, how it works, and how you can apply for one in Portugal.
What Is the EHIC?
The European Health Insurance Card is a personal card that entitles you to receive necessary medical treatment through the public health system of the country you’re visiting. That means if you fall ill or have an accident during a temporary stay in another EU country (or in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, or the United Kingdom), you’ll receive the same level of care and pay the same price (or nothing at all) as residents of that country.
It’s important to note once again that the EHIC only covers public healthcare services and doesn’t apply to private clinics or hospitals. It also doesn’t replace travel insurance, so it won’t cover things like medical repatriation, lost luggage, or cancellations. Still, for basic and emergency medical needs, it’s an essential item and comes free of charge for those eligible to apply.
Who Can Apply in Portugal?
The card is available to individuals who are affiliated with the Portuguese Social Security system, as well as certain groups covered by public or voluntary insurance. This includes people who are actively working, pensioners, those enrolled in voluntary social insurance, and people affiliated with public healthcare subsystems.
Even if you’re not directly covered by Social Security, you may still be eligible. Users of the National Health Service who are not part of any social security or public/private health subsystem can also request the EHIC. Additionally, people who have previously worked abroad and returned to Portugal as pensioners can apply for the card.
Please note: since the EHIC is an individual document, every person traveling must have their own card. Children and dependents are not automatically covered under their parents’ cards. Parents can apply on behalf of their children by using the child’s Social Security Identification Number (NISS) through the online portal (see below).
What Does the EHIC Cover?
The EHIC is designed for short-term stays and travel. It covers medically necessary treatment during a temporary visit to another country, such as emergency care, treatment for chronic illnesses, and maternity care (if the birth wasn’t planned in the foreign country). If you have a pre-existing condition like diabetes or asthma, the EHIC ensures continued access to necessary medications and check-ups during your stay.
However, the healthcare you receive must be through the public system of the country you are visiting. Some countries have partial co-payment systems, so you may be asked to pay a portion of the treatment costs upfront. In many cases, these costs can be reimbursed either on the spot or once you return to Portugal. Be sure to keep all receipts and documents if you need to make a claim later.
What Doesn’t the EHIC Cover?
While the EHIC is a helpful tool, it does not cover all scenarios. It doesn’t pay for private medical care, nor does it include things like mountain rescue during ski trips, repatriation to Portugal, or non-medical travel issues such as trip cancellations or lost baggage. That’s why many travelers choose to supplement their trip with a private travel insurance policy.
In some countries, even public healthcare systems may ask for payment at the time of treatment, so the EHIC won’t necessarily mean you avoid all costs. Instead, it ensures you’re treated fairly on the same terms as a citizen of that country.
How to Apply for the EHIC in Portugal
The process to request the EHIC in Portugal is relatively straightforward, especially if you’re already registered with Segurança Social (Social Security).
You’ll need to gather some basic information, including your Social Security Identification Number (NISS), your National Health Service User Number (Número de Utente), and your personal details. If you’re applying for children or other dependents, you’ll need their personal data too.
The easiest way to apply is online. You can log in to your account at Segurança Social Direta, the government’s online platform, and navigate to the section for health-related requests. Once logged in, go to the “Doença” (Sickness) menu and select the option to obtain the European Health Insurance Card. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your application.
First, click “
Then, click “Continuar para ações” under “O que posso fazer online?”
Finally, click on “Iniciar pedido.”
Alternatively, you can apply through the Segurança Social + Próxima mobile app, which is available for Android and iOS devices. Once you’ve opened the app, look for the option labeled “Cartão Europeu de Seguro de Doença” and follow the prompts.
Your EHIC will be mailed to the address you have on file with Social Security. In most cases, it arrives within five to seven working days. The card is valid for three years from the date of issue, after which you can renew it using the same process.
What If You’re Traveling Soon?
If you’re heading off on a trip and realize you don’t have your EHIC (or if you applied too late and it hasn’t arrived yet), you can request a Provisional Replacement Certificate (Certificado Provisório de Substituição, or PEC). This temporary document functions in the same way as the EHIC and is valid for three months.
To request the PEC, you’ll need to visit a local Social Security office. In emergency situations, Social Security can even send the certificate directly to the hospital or health center where you’re receiving care in another country.
The PEC is especially useful if your card is lost or forgotten during a trip. It can be issued remotely if you contact Social Security and provide the necessary information and documentation.
How Much Does It Cost?
There is no cost to apply for or renew the EHIC in Portugal. It’s a free public service, and all eligible individuals are encouraged to take advantage of it. Be cautious of third-party websites that claim to process EHIC applications for a fee. They are often unofficial and unnecessary.
Final Thoughts
For expats living in Portugal, the European Health Insurance Card offers peace of mind when traveling within Europe. It ensures that you won’t be left without access to necessary medical care if the unexpected happens during your trip. While it’s not a replacement for comprehensive travel insurance, the EHIC is an excellent supplement that can save you both time and money.
With a simple application process and no cost involved, there’s no reason not to request your card before your next journey.
If you’re not sure whether you qualify or need help navigating the Segurança Social website, consider visiting your local Social Security office or checking their online FAQ section. Safe travels and stay healthy!
