- The best travel insurance plans for Portugal
- Is it currently safe to travel to Portugal?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Portugal?
- Why take out travel insurance for Portugal?
- What Travel Insurance for Portugal Should Cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Portugal
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Portugal
- Will my current insurance cover me in Portugal?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Portugal: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Portugal covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal belongings.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory, but vital as Australia has no reciprocal healthcare agreement with Portugal.
3. Healthcare cost: Medical care is expensive; a private hospital stay can cost over AUD $1,000 per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Portugal typically costs between AUD $40 and $80.
5. Good to know: You are legally required to carry photo identification with you at all times in Portugal.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 41 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Portugal.
The best travel insurance plans for Portugal
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | AUD 1.6M | Our recommendation for travel to Portugal. - very high medical cover - repatriation included - comprehensive, up-to-date guarantees |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | AUD 1.6M | Reliable choice for Portugal, especially short trips. - 24/7 medical helpline - cancellation cover - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | AUD 800K | Suitable for tourists with robust basic protection. - solid medical cover - emergency care - good value pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | AUD 1.1M | Balanced option for Portugal, with broad assistance. - repatriation covered - hospital bills insured - global support |
| Globe Partner | AUD 480K | Essential guarantees for international stays in Portugal. - medical care abroad - repatriation - personal liability |
| Globe Traveller | AUD 800K | Affordable for short, lower-risk trips to Portugal. - basic medical cover - fast reimbursements - moderate limits |
- very high medical cover
- repatriation included
- comprehensive, up-to-date guarantees
- 24/7 medical helpline
- cancellation cover
- no deductible
- solid medical cover
- emergency care
- good value pricing
- repatriation covered
- hospital bills insured
- global support
- medical care abroad
- repatriation
- personal liability
- basic medical cover
- fast reimbursements
- moderate limits
Is it currently safe to travel to Portugal?
As of June 2025, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) advises travellers to exercise normal safety precautions when visiting Portugal, with an emphasis on maintaining vigilance due to the current terrorism alert level.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: petty crime such as bag snatching and pickpocketing frequently occurs in areas like the Lisbon metro, main railway stations, and tourist districts in Porto.
- Health risks: Australia has no reciprocal healthcare agreement with Portugal, so all medical costs must be paid by travellers. Delays in public hospitals can occur during staff strikes.
- Legal requirements: carry your passport or government-issued photo ID at all times. Police may request identification, especially at transport hubs or during large public events.
- Cultural norms: demonstrations and strikes sometimes impact public transport or city traffic, particularly in central Lisbon. These are usually peaceful but may disrupt travel plans.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Portugal.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Portugal?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Australian citizens travelling to Portugal for stays under 90 days.
It is still strongly recommended by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade because all medical expenses in Portugal must be paid by travellers. There is no reciprocal health agreement and private clinics in Lisbon or Porto often require up-front payment for consultation or hospitalisation.
According to our data, 50% of travellers purchase travel insurance before going to Portugal. This figure reflects Portugal’s general safety, but also the potential for costly medical treatment or emergencies.
Why take out travel insurance for Portugal?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Portugal.
Health costs in Portugal can be high, especially for foreigners. There is no reciprocal healthcare agreement with Australia, so all treatment must be paid for directly by the traveller. Private clinics in cities like Lisbon and Porto, such as Hospital da Luz or CUF Descobertas, require up-front payment for consultations, tests or emergencies, and even public hospitals may have delays or require deposits.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Australia if a serious incident occurs.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Portugal.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Hospital da Luz | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | €2,300 (AUD 3,760) | up to €100,000 (AUD 163,600) |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | €600 (AUD 980) | up to €100,000 (AUD 163,600) |
| I need to be repatriated | €20,000 (AUD 32,700) | up to €100,000 (AUD 163,600) |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | €4,800 (AUD 7,850) | up to €100,000 (AUD 163,600) |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What Travel Insurance for Portugal Should Cover
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Portugal.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital treatment, doctor visits, and emergency care in Portugal. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least AUD 250,000. |
| 🚑 Emergency repatriation | Pays for medically necessary return home if you are seriously ill or injured. Select cover of at least AUD 120,000. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Reimburses non-refundable travel expenses if you must cancel before departure. A minimum of AUD 10,000 is recommended. |
| 🧳 Baggage and personal effects | Covers theft, loss, or damage to your luggage and valuables. At least AUD 5,000 reimbursement limit is advised. |
| 🦷 Dental emergencies | Covers the cost of urgent dental care caused by an accident. Recommended minimum: AUD 1,000 for dental emergencies. |
| 🚗 Rental car excess | Reimburses excess charged by car hire company if your vehicle is damaged or stolen. Look for at least AUD 4,000 in cover. |
| 🧑⚖️ Personal liability | Pays if you accidentally cause injury to others or damage property. A recommended minimum cover of AUD 2,000,000. |
| 🏔️ Search and rescue | Pays for rescue costs if lost or injured in remote areas. Aim for a minimum cover of AUD 10,000. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least AUD 250,000.
Select cover of at least AUD 120,000.
A minimum of AUD 10,000 is recommended.
At least AUD 5,000 reimbursement limit is advised.
Recommended minimum: AUD 1,000 for dental emergencies.
Look for at least AUD 4,000 in cover.
A recommended minimum cover of AUD 2,000,000.
Aim for a minimum cover of AUD 10,000.
Travel insurance from local providers or credit cards is often limited, with lower maximums and more exceptions. It is safer to choose a specialised insurer with comprehensive coverage. Compare leading plans on HelloSafe and buy online instantly for immediate proof of cover.
The cost of travel insurance for Portugal
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | AUD 33 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | AUD 54 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | AUD 76 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | AUD 177 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
Your travel insurance price for Portugal depends on your age, trip duration, destination, and the level of cover you need, including for cancellation or pre-existing conditions. It's crucial to weigh these factors to select the right policy, as medical bills can be hefty for Aussies without a reciprocal healthcare agreement.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Portugal
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Portugal while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip duration | Insurance costs increase the longer you travel, but most Australians visit Portugal for less than a month. | Limit your coverage to the exact dates you will be in Portugal to avoid paying for unnecessary days. |
| 🧑 Traveller's age | Older travellers are typically charged more, but pricing varies between insurers. | The insurer Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. Check age-related pricing across several providers. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Group or family plan | Insuring a group or family can lower the average cost per person compared to single policies. | Look for group or family policies—these often offer better value than purchasing separately. |
| 🌍 Level of coverage | Coverage limits and options drive price; Portuguese healthcare is private and upfront fees are required. | Choose only necessary coverage and skip add-ons you likely won't need. |
| 🏥 Medical limits | Visitors to Portugal must pay for all treatment, and serious incidents can be expensive in Lisbon or Porto. | Select an appropriate medical cover amount rather than the highest possible limit for your needs. |
| 🧳 Deductibles | Lower premiums are possible with higher deductibles, but your out-of-pocket risk also rises. | Increase your deductible only if you can cover it in case of minor emergencies. |
| 🕒 Policy type | Annual multi-trip plans are suitable for frequent travellers but single-trip policies are cheaper for holidays. | Choose an annual policy only if you plan several overseas trips within 12 months. |
Will my current insurance cover me in Portugal?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or your public health insurance—can protect you during a trip to Portugal. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. As there is no reciprocal healthcare agreement, only travel insurance provides complete protection for Australians. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Portugal? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance | Never | Covers only health needs in Australia, never valid abroad. No cover for overseas medical costs. | Travel insurance provides up to AUD 300,000–600,000 for medical costs, emergency, repatriation, and more. |
| Private health insurance | Limited coverage | Sometimes covers urgent medical care abroad, often capped at AUD 2,000–10,000. | Travel insurance includes higher limits and event coverage like baggage loss, cancellation, and personal liability. |
| Classic credit card (e.g., ANZ Low Rate, Westpac Lite Card) | Limited coverage | May offer delayed-baggage or cancelled-flight cover, with low limits, usually below AUD 500. | Travel insurance covers accidents, medical evacuation, and 24/7 assistance, which most cards do not provide. |
| Premium credit card (e.g., ANZ Platinum, CommBank Diamond) | Limited coverage | May cover some illness or travel delay, up to AUD 5,000, with many exclusions. | Travel insurance covers pre-existing medical issues, high-value items, and unlimited repatriation if necessary. |
Example
While surfing in Nazaré, Chloe suffered a severe concussion. Her premium bank card's complimentary insurance only covered AU$2,000 of the AU$25,000 private hospital bill. With no reciprocal healthcare agreement, her Australian health fund covered nothing, leaving her with a massive AU$23,000 debt for a day at the beach.
Expert advice
Your bank card or private health insurance often won't cover trip interruptions for a family emergency. Always check the fine print in your policies to avoid nasty surprises overseas. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to take out dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?
Australian citizens do not need a visa to visit Portugal for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, thanks to the Schengen area visa exemption. You must have a valid Australian passport with at least three months’ validity beyond your planned departure and may be asked to show evidence of onward travel.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Portugal?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to review several plans. Next, check each policy's cover and exclusions, focusing on requirements for Portugal, such as medical care or theft. Then, buy your chosen policy online. You will receive your insurance certificate promptly via email.
Does Medicare or Australian private health insurance cover medical costs in Portugal?
Australian Medicare does not cover you in Portugal. Most private health insurance from Australia excludes international medical expenses or offers only limited coverage. Comprehensive travel insurance ensures you are not left with large bills for medical treatment or hospitalisation in Portugal.
Are there any health risks or requirements for Australians visiting Portugal?
Health risks in Portugal are similar to those in Australia. No routine vaccinations are required for entry, but ensure your general vaccinations are up to date. Hepatitis A vaccination is suggested for those visiting rural areas or eating street food. Public healthcare may face delays, so private care is recommended with insurance.
What precautions should I take against theft and petty crime in Portugal?
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common, especially in tourist districts, on public transport, and at cruise terminals. Remain vigilant with your belongings, keep valuables hidden, and use anti-theft bags or money belts. Report stolen items to the local police and your insurer as soon as possible.
What should I do in an emergency while in Portugal?
For urgent police, fire, or medical emergencies, dial 112, which is the national emergency number. If you need consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Lisbon. Always carry identification, including your passport or a copy, to avoid delays in receiving support.
Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?
Australian citizens do not need a visa to visit Portugal for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, thanks to the Schengen area visa exemption. You must have a valid Australian passport with at least three months’ validity beyond your planned departure and may be asked to show evidence of onward travel.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Portugal?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to review several plans. Next, check each policy's cover and exclusions, focusing on requirements for Portugal, such as medical care or theft. Then, buy your chosen policy online. You will receive your insurance certificate promptly via email.
Does Medicare or Australian private health insurance cover medical costs in Portugal?
Australian Medicare does not cover you in Portugal. Most private health insurance from Australia excludes international medical expenses or offers only limited coverage. Comprehensive travel insurance ensures you are not left with large bills for medical treatment or hospitalisation in Portugal.
Are there any health risks or requirements for Australians visiting Portugal?
Health risks in Portugal are similar to those in Australia. No routine vaccinations are required for entry, but ensure your general vaccinations are up to date. Hepatitis A vaccination is suggested for those visiting rural areas or eating street food. Public healthcare may face delays, so private care is recommended with insurance.
What precautions should I take against theft and petty crime in Portugal?
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common, especially in tourist districts, on public transport, and at cruise terminals. Remain vigilant with your belongings, keep valuables hidden, and use anti-theft bags or money belts. Report stolen items to the local police and your insurer as soon as possible.
What should I do in an emergency while in Portugal?
For urgent police, fire, or medical emergencies, dial 112, which is the national emergency number. If you need consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Lisbon. Always carry identification, including your passport or a copy, to avoid delays in receiving support.
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