Travel insurance vs. Health insurance

Hello,
I have been fighting with google to get me relevant information on Heath Insurance in Portugal. I only get links for very pricey travel insurance. Once in Portugal, I know that there is an option for private health care as well as the public option. I have looked at AXA Global but that seems to be for people that travel and live both inside and outside of Portugal. I would really like guidance on this issue, without knowing what insurance is going to cost, I may have to change my retirement plans of moving to Portugal.
Cheers,
Travis

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Hi Travis!

I would recommend for you to check with local companies when you arrive here, such as Fidelidade, Tranquilidade, Ageas Seguros, Medis, Multicare, and Alliance, among others (they all have a large variety of options catering to your needs).

If you intend to have something BEFORE arriving in Portugal, I would recommend you take a look at Cigna.

But please keep in mind: for the visa, you’ll need travel insurance (which must last the duration of your visa, 120 days). After arriving here with your residency visa, you’ll need either Portuguese health insurance or a Utente number (Portuguese Public Healthcare ID) to present at your AIMA appointment.

If you need anything else, let us know! :v:

Thanks Brenda,
I will look at those companies. I know about the necessity of Travel Insurance and I have a quote from Cigna at $2600 euros for the year. (PRICEY). What I am looking for is a quote for health insurance so I can budget my monthly spending. I keep a very accurate budget so I am in charge of where all my money goes. It is important for me to be in control of my money and not be aware of my finances.
I researched hospitals in Portugal to discover what private insurance plans they accept. I have already contacted Allianz Health insurance and received one quote. I will contact the others you recommended and see if they are willing to provide a quote.
Cheers,
Travis

Travis, I can let you know that Multicare is one of the most renowned services in this area. This service is particularly popular among the Portuguese population.

When it comes to pricing, they offer a variety of options. I personally had an option where I only had to pay 9 euros per month, which acted more like a discount than anything else. For example, medical consultations and prescription glasses would receive a 20% discount, or I would have a price reduction from 60 euros to 45 euros for services. But I have a few friends who had the top-tier option with them as well, and it was pretty great (though I’m not aware of the values, as it was work provided). The discounts were fantastic; they had access to the best hospitals and healthcare providers, with discounts easily reaching 90% for pretty much everything health-related.

I highly recommend you take a look with a broker in the area you intend to live or online, through their website.

I can also let you know that, a few other immigrant friends found Ageas more prepared to answer to immigrant needs, specially for those without documents ready.