Portuguese Legislation (national health system)

 

Asylum seekers are entitled to access health care on equal grounds as Portuguese nationals in regards to coverage and conditions. Extensive health coverage is provided by law to undocumented migrants as long as they can prove that they have been living in Portugal for more than ninety days. However, the need to provide this evidence often constitutes a critical barrier for them to exercise their entitlements. Access is organized through temporary registrations at health centres and is normally done each time they seek health assistance. For most services, patients must pay a moderating fee, unless they obtain a certificate of lack of resources.

 

Short-stay undocumented migrants are considered tourists and have reduced coverage that nonetheless includes HIV treatment and ante-post natal care, among others.

 

Download the full report on the Portuguese legislation on access to health care for undocumented migrants and asylum seekers (in Portuguese). Click here to read the English version

 

Download the Comparative overview of the legislation on access to health care for undocumented migrants and asylum seekers in 16 countries (in Portuguese). Click here to read the English version