Cigna Global for Expats in Portugal (2026)

For the D7 visa, Portugal requires private health insurance with full coverage valid in Portugal. Cigna's Gold and Platinum plans typically satisfy these requirements without issue.

For the Digital Nomad Visa, requirements are similar. Comprehensive coverage is expected, and Cigna's documentation is familiar to Portuguese officials.

The Golden Visa has the same insurance requirements. Given the investment amounts involved, insurance costs are marginal—premium coverage makes sense.

What to verify: Before purchasing, confirm with Cigna that your specific plan meets Portuguese visa requirements. Request documentation that clearly states full coverage in Portugal.

D7 applicants are typically older and planning long-term stays. Cigna's comprehensive coverage aligns well with this profile—you're investing in reliable healthcare access for years to come.

The D7 income requirement (~€820/month) is modest, but applicants typically have more. At €200-350/month for comprehensive Cigna coverage, insurance is a significant but manageable expense.

D7 holders don't automatically access SNS (public healthcare) through work. Private insurance remains your primary coverage, making quality important.

Once you have a residence permit and NIF (tax number), you can register for SNS access at your local health center. SNS provides public healthcare to legal residents.

However, you need private insurance to get the visa that grants SNS access. Cigna covers you during the application and until SNS registration is complete.

Many expats maintain Cigna even after SNS access. Private insurance provides faster specialist access and private hospital options, while SNS serves as a comprehensive backup.

For a 55-year-old (common D7 profile), expect roughly €250-350/month for Gold coverage. For a 65-year-old, costs rise to €350-450/month.

Younger Digital Nomad Visa applicants pay less—a 35-year-old might pay €150-220/month for Gold coverage.

Deductibles affect pricing but may affect visa compliance perception. Discuss with Cigna which options satisfy Portuguese requirements.

Cigna has relationships with major private hospital groups in Portugal, including CUF, Luz Saúde, and others. In Lisbon and Porto, you'll have multiple private hospital options.

Outside major cities, private options are more limited. Many expats in smaller towns use Cigna for major care in Lisbon/Porto and local public or private clinics for routine needs.

You can typically use any private facility—Cigna doesn't restrict you to a narrow network. Claims reimbursement is standard for out-of-network care.