LaineyM

Hi
We have a property in Alvor and so have fiscal numbers etc. Where do we stand with healthcare if we move over to Alvor for a 6 month period? Can we just register with the local GP surgery? What if we needed hospital treatment?
Thanks
Lainey

Cleri

No free health care here.For six months,you will have to choose a private hospital and pay for a doc etc,should you need one.

newintavira

6 months is awkward if you want to be 100% legit, as technically after 3 you have to take out residency. I'd consider taking out a EU-wide private policy.

I THINK up to three months you would technically be on holiday and therefore covered by your EHIC - it's after 3 months it all becomes grey and complicated.

Similarly, you could just take out an annual travel insurance policy, but that's likely to have a limited length for each trip - and I'd bet it's less than 90 days.

Minefield!

LaineyM

Thanks! I think there is also another for you can get here which covers you for two and a half years if you're not at an age to receive state pension. Anyone heard of that?

newintavira

You're referring to an S1, which you apply for from the UK. We SHOULD have qualified for that, but even though we were working (from home in Portugal for a UK company AND paying UK NI (grrrrrr)) they wouldn't issue one.

Individual mileage may (and will) vary

newintavira

If you only intend to stay 6 months, think very carefully about officially leaving the UK - you can end up having to wait 3 months before you qualify for anything again on your return.

LaineyM

Really does sound like a minefield! Thanks for advice though!