What travel insurance do I need when visiting Portugal?

NAME: Axel Strauss
DATE: 19/09/2024

World leader in renewable energy. Producer of roughly 70% of the world’s cork. Home to the world’s oldest bookstore, biggest wave ever surfed, longest suspended pedestrian bridge, and longest regular bridge in Europe. Not to mention Fado music, pastel de natas (i.e., custard tarts — aka the nation's sugary claim to fame), port wine, ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, golf, art, history, culture, and nightlife and entertainment galore.

In short, it’s no wonder Portugal is quickly becoming one of the world’s top travel destinations. In fact — with its ever-growing communities of expats, entrepreneurs, digital nomads, students, retirees, and all sorts of folks from all sorts of walks of life — this 881-year-old coastal European gem welcomed over a record-breaking 30 million visitors in 2023 alone. And if you plan on seeing what all the fuss is about firsthand, you might be wondering about the right travel insurance. In which case, AXA got you covered.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for Portugal?
• I don’t need a Schengen Visa. Do I still need travel insurance?
• What does AXA Schengen travel insurance for Portugal cover?
• What should I do if I am injured or ill while in Portugal?
• What else should I know when prepping for my trip to Portugal? 

Is travel insurance mandatory for Portugal?

For millions of Portugal’s visitors, yes. But it all comes down to whether or not you’ll need a visa. Because — as both the most southwestern point in Europe and the most western of the Schengen countries — Portugal requires most of its visitors from outside the Schengen Zone to have a valid Schengen visa.

And having proper travel insurance is one of the primary requirements for being granted a Schengen visa. Not only that, but your plan must meet a certain set of criteria too (but more on that below).

Now, whether or not you’ll need a Portuguese Schengen visa is another question. And here’s the short answer — with plenty of links to more detailed ones, just in case.

Who doesn’t need a Schengen visa to come to Portugal (for stays of less than 90 days)?

In general, the citizens of countries that don’t need a Schengen visa are those of either the Schengen area and/or non-Schengen European Union countries.

But there are also roughly 60 non-EU countries and territories that have signed visa exemption agreements with the EU — including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, the U.K., and the U.S. And if your country happens to be one of the ones on that list,* you should be able to go to the Schengen visa-free as well.

Who is required to apply for a Schengen visa for Portugal?

On the other hand, if your country has yet to sign a visa waiver agreement with the EU (such as any nation in Africa and most of the Middle East, China, India, Russia, and nearly 100 more) — then you will need a Schengen visa to come to Portugal (and, thereby, the proper travel insurance).

*PRO-TIP: The European Commission provides full lists of countries with and without visa waiver agreements with the EU. But it’s also best to double-check with the other proper channels too — such as Portugal’s ePortal website and the official website(s) of your home country — before booking that flight.

Meanwhile, AXA can also help you figure out whether you need a Schengen visa (in general, and specifically for Portugal — below), as well as understand which type of Schengen visa best suits your Portuguese travel needs.

How do I get a Schengen visa for Portugal?

We’re glad you asked. Because — while Schengen travel insurance is our main specialty — AXA will also gladly guide you through the process of applying for a Schengen visa for Portugal in a few relatively simple steps.

Plus, we can also help you get a Schengen visa for Portugal from India, and/or a Schengen visa for Portugal from Bangladesh.

And once you’ve applied — we can help you track your Schengen visa application online, better understand your Schengen visa validity, and tell you about your Schengen visa extension options too. So click around!

Do I need EES/ ETIAS for Portugal in 2024?

Not yet. That is, in theory, the European Union’s new travel authorization systems — EES and ETIAS — are only set to go into effect in late 2024 and mid-2025, respectively. AXA can also tell you more about those if you like (via the two links above).

I don’t need a Schengen Visa. Do I still need travel insurance?

If you don’t need a Portuguese Schengen Visa, then — technically — then no, travel insurance is not a requirement for entering the country.

That said, traveling abroad is almost always guaranteed to come with a few surprises. When it comes to Portugal, of course, these surprises are fortunately usually good (seeing as it’s one of Europe’s safest countries). Still, your health and safety — as well as the health and safety of your loved ones — should always be a top priority no matter where you’re going.

Because, first off, navigating a foreign healthcare system can be very tricky. Medical costs abroad can get pretty pricey too — especially if you have a preexisting condition, are pregnant, and when it comes to things like prescription drugs.

Plus, with all the great things the country has to offer, it’s no secret — at least in Europe — that Portuguese bureaucracy and wait times can be a real drag to those who are not accustomed to them (especially since the pandemic and the record-breaking influx of foreigners in recent years).

So whether you’re surfing those big waves, just chilling on the beach, or simply sampling some local port wine and pastel de natas from the comfort of your Airbnb — you can never be too prepared. And the first step in being properly prepared is having a solid travel insurance plan that guarantees you’re in good hands.

Not only does the right insurance save you time, money, and stress when dealing with unforeseen health issues. But it also provides you and your family with that little bit of extra peace of mind. And perhaps most importantly, it ensures that you have immediate support — 24/7, seven days a week — in case something does go wrong.

What does AXA Schengen travel insurance for Portugal cover?

And that’s where we come in. Because it just so happens that — just like Portugal with cork — top-quality, affordable Schengen travel insurance is what we do best. Be that for Portugal or beyond. And here are just a few benefits to choosing an AXA travel insurance plan.

First off — and legally speaking — if you do need that Portuguese Schengen visa, travel insurance is, again, mandatory. Not only that, but your plan must:

• have a minimum coverage of €30,000 (in case of medical care, hospitalization, and/or medical repatriation);
• be accepted by all countries within the Schengen zone (and not just Portugal);
• be valid for the entire duration of your trip/stay.

All three AXA plans — that is, Low-Cost, Europe Travel, and Multi-Trip — meet the requirements above. Which means you’re one big step closer to being approved.

Meanwhile, if your Schengen visa for Portugal is denied, AXA’s plans are usually refundable. We’ll only ask that you provide the appropriate documentation (i.e., an official explanation as to why your visa was refused) from the relevant embassy, consulate, or visa application center. Along with meeting all the requirements for being granted your Portuguese Schengen Visa, our plans also offer:

• Up to €100,000 coverage in medical expenses;
• Medical repatriation & transport;
• 24/7 medical assistance (with our unique “Doctor, please!” feature) in English, French, German, Spanish, ​Italian, and/or Portuguese;
• Up to 180 days of coverage;
• Coverage in all Schengen and most European Union countries (including the U.K. — depending on the chosen plan).

AXA’s travel insurance certificate, meanwhile — which can be instantly downloaded (and/or printed) online — is accepted by all Schengen consulates, embassies, and visa processing centers around the world.

So learn all about and compare our 3 comprehensive plans today. With AXA, you’re not only one huge step closer to getting your Portuguese Schengen Visa (if you need one). But you and your family are also that much closer to ensuring that your trip to the most western point in Europe is as safe, sunny, and worry-free as can be.

What should I do if I am injured or ill while in Portugal?

And when you do finally make it to the birthplace of — among many other greats — Ronaldo (and, in a way, Harry Potter), remember that AXA is always in your corner. Be it to help with an unforeseen medical emergency, or to simply address any other medical concerns that you may have.

So if something goes wrong (or even feels off), simply contact an AXA call center — the number for which will be provided with your insurance policy — and our medical professionals will answer your questions, provide guidance, help you find the nearest medical facility, and more.

What to Provide When Contacting AXA's Call Center

Heads-up — these bits are important, so maybe jot them down and keep them on hand (along with the aforementioned call center number). When calling AXA, you’ll be asked to provide:

• Your policy number (which begins with "SCH");
• The address and telephone number at which you can be reached (as well as the details of any people that can be contacted locally);
• Your dossier number (provided during your initial call).

PRO-TIP 2: Always keep all bills/invoices related to medical costs and enclose them with your file. Keep your phone charged too. And stay calma (as the Portuguese say) — AXA got your back.

Emergency Numbers in Portugal

In case you’re bypassing AXA, the number for general emergency services in Portugal (as well as the rest of Europe) is 112.

Simply call 112 from any phone and the operator will then divert you to the relevant emergency service — i.e., the police (polícia), the fire brigade (bombeiros), and/or ambulance services (ambulância).

PRO-TIP 3: You can also learn more about Portugal’s various emergency services numbers via the ePortal site, as well as the Portuguese Government’s Official Civil Protection website.

What else should I know when prepping for my trip to Portugal?

And here are a few more good things to know as you prepare for your Portuguese adventure.

• Safety
  Portugal is, again, widely considered one of the safest European destinations for travelers. Instances of violent crime are low. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur — particularly in crowded tourist areas in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Be aware of potential credit card and ATM fraud too. Using licensed taxis and official ride-hailing services is also recommended to avoid being overcharged.
  
  PRO-TIP: And beware of online housing scams too — as these have been on the rise in recent years due to the increasing demand and lack of supply, esp. in Lisbon.
  
  Eating out or purchasing groceries from supermarkets, meanwhile, is generally safe. And tap water in most urban areas is potable and safe for drinking (although many visitors prefer bottled water). The heat and the waves, however, can get pretty crazy.
  
  In short — stay diligent, use common sense, and have your phone charged and on hand.
   
• Public Transportation
  Portugal's public transportation system is robust and well-integrated, featuring a comprehensive network of buses, trains, and metro services — particularly in major cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra. The company Comboios de Portugal (CP) operates national train services — including high-speed connections and regional trains between all cities and most towns. Urban transportation is well-supported with extensive metro systems — such as the Lisbon Metro and Porto Metro — plus numerous local bus lines (and its fair share of ferries too).
  
  HEADS-UP: Portugal’s train and bus operators do, however, tend to go on strike every few months, somewhat disrupting services. So always double-check online —and, if you can, with a local — for the latest developments.
  
  In addition, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt — not to mention countless bike, scooter, boat, jet-ski, etc. rental options — are widely available throughout the country.
   
• Driving
  Portugal's road infrastructure is generally good and well-maintained — especially in the major cities and towns. But do use caution— especially if you’re not used to local driving habits.
  
  An international driving permit (IDP) and/or an official translation of your driver’s license should be enough in terms of paperwork. However, for the most accurate information, we recommend you consult the Portuguese Institute for Mobility and Transport (and/or visit a Portuguese consulate).
  
  Be sure to familiarize yourself with and adhere to local traffic regulations too — to avoid both fines and sticky situations.
  
  HEADS-UP: As with most top tourist destinations, traffic congestion in Lisbon and Porto can be significant — even on the sidewalks at times. Navigating e-scooters and/or bicycles can, therefore, be a very tricky endeavor. Always stay alert and prioritize safety — your own and that of others — to, again, avoid any sticky situations.
   
• Weather
  Portugal is generally considered a warm place (minus the lack of central heating in winter). That said, the weather does vary significantly by region. For example, along the coast — such as in Lisbon and Porto — you'll find a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Inland areas experience a more continental climate, leading to hotter summers and colder winters. The northern regions, including the Douro Valley, are generally wetter and cooler throughout the year. And the south is a scorcher in the summer months.
  
  Meanwhile, the Madeira and Azores archipelagos offer a subtropical climate — ideal for year-round travel with mild temperatures and regular rainfall.
  
  In summary, bring lightweight clothing for summer and warm layers for winter. Don't underestimate the intensity of the Portuguese sun — especially during peak summer months. And keep in mind that the water — while refreshing — tends to be rather cold year-round.
  
  PRO-TIP 4: For more detailed climate information, you can refer to the Portuguese Meteorological Institute.
   
• Opening Hours
  Opening hours for businesses can vary depending on where you are. Typically, shops operate from 9 or 10 AM to 1 PM — then close for a midday break — and then reopen from 3 or 4 PM to 7 or 8 PM.
  
  In larger cities and tourist areas, stores might extend their hours, staying open from 9 AM to 8 PM or later (sometimes even without a break, albeit rarely).
  
  Shopping centers and larger retail stores often have longer hours — generally from 10 AM to 10 PM. Many shops close on Sundays, but larger establishments (and those in tourist hotspots) are, again, more likely to stay open.
  
  FINAL PRO-TIP: Along with the official sources above, websites like Visit Portugal and Atlas Lisboa can be great resources for what (and how) to do and see during your visit too.
   
• Restaurants
  And, finally, the food. Portuguese restaurants (and tascas — aka smaller eateries) near and far provide a delightful culinary experience in every sense of the word. Along with savory local spirits, local and visitor favorites include bacalhau (i.e., cod), pastéis de nata (the custard tarts, remember?), caldo verde (the national veggie soup), caracois (snails…yep…), fresh seafood galore, and a whole universe of joy-and-calorie-packed desserts. The country's wine and coffee culture also offers rich flavors to enjoy.
  
  Dining hours, meanwhile, can vary. The tascas tend to open early, but lunch is generally served from 12:30 to 3 PM, and dinner from 7:30 PM to 10 PM or later. Many restaurants and eateries may close between lunch and dinner — particularly in more rural areas. But the touristy spots tend to be open longer (and packed to the gills, especially during summer — so plan accordingly).
   

Boa viagem!