You’ll thank yourself later for sorting this early.
Sorting out healthcare might not be the most exciting part of your relocation — but trust me, it’s one of the most important. Getting your SNS number (Número de Utente) gives you access to Portugal’s public healthcare system. It can save you thousands and give your family real peace of mind.
This guide walks you through the process step by step — from someone who’s been there, waited in line, and asked “Is this really all I need?” more than once.
At a Glance: What You Need to Know
| What | Your SNS number is your access pass to public healthcare (GPs, hospitals, prescriptions) |
| Cost | Free to apply |
| Timeline | Same-day registration at the health center (Centro de Saúde) |
| Where | Your local Centro de Saúde, based on your registered address |
| Documents | ID, residence proof, NIF, proof of address, Portuguese phone number |
| For kids | Child’s passport/birth cert + parent’s documents + vaccination record |
| Remote? | Possible via email in some areas – call your local center to check |
What is the SNS Number and Why Do You Need One?
The SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde) number is your official registration in Portugal’s public healthcare system. Without it, you can’t book GP appointments, access subsidized medications, or visit public hospitals.
Once you have it, you’re treated like any Portuguese resident — regardless of your nationality or employment status.
Who Needs an SNS Number?
If you’re living in Portugal legally, you need one — simple as that. This includes:
- EU/EEA citizens with a CRUE certificate
- Non-EU residents with a valid residence permit
- Children of legal residents (yes, even babies). You need it even for vaccines.
- Unemployed expats or digital nomads (you don’t need a job to apply)
How to Get Your SNS Number (Step-by-Step)
Find Your Local Health Center
Look for the Centro de Saúde closest to your registered address — Google Maps can help, or you can call SNS 24 at 808 24 24 24. They do have English-speaking support.
This is where you’ll go for GP appointments too, so it’s good to get familiar.
Gather These Documents
Bring originals and copies of the following:
- Passport or EU ID card
- Residence permit or CRUE
- NIF (Tax Identification Number)
- Proof of address (e.g. recent utility bill or rental contract)
- Portuguese phone number
Go in Person and Register
Head to your Centro de Saúde. It’s usually walk-in (no appointment), but in some areas, you may need to call ahead.
Be prepared to:
- Take a ticket and wait
- Hand over your documents
- Answer basic questions (in Portuguese — bring help or a translator app if needed)
Expect to spend 1–2 hours, depending on how busy it is.
Receive Your SNS Number
You’ll get a printed document with your number. That’s it — you’re officially in the system.
Keep it safe — you’ll need this number whenever you access public healthcare.
What About My Kids?
Kids must also be registered individually. One parent or legal guardian should go with:
- Child’s passport or birth certificate
- Parent’s ID and proof of residency
- Proof of address
- Child’s vaccination record (caderneta de vacinas or equivalent)
Note: You do not need to bring your child in person for this step. In our case, one parent (with the same last name as the child) was able to register the entire family. This may vary slightly by location, but most centers allow it.
The process is the same and done at the same health center. The vaccination record is essential — not only for healthcare access, but also for school enrollment.
Can I Apply Remotely?
In some areas, yes. Some centers allow applications via email.
- Call your local Centro de Saúde
- Ask if email registration is possible
- If yes, send scanned copies of documents
- Wait for confirmation and receive your SNS number digitally
What Services Can I Access with an SNS Number?
Once registered, you can:
- Request to be assigned a family doctor (médico de família). In many urban areas, this can take years. Most health centers operate a sem médico system — on specific days, a general doctor is available to patients without an assigned doctor.
- See specialists (with referral)
- Get prescriptions and buy subsidized medications
- Access hospitals and emergency rooms
- Use urgent care (Serviço de Atendimento Permanente)
- Use SNS App
Personal Tip: Why I Love the SNS Mobile App
One thing I didn’t expect to love — but now use all the time — is the official SNS mobile app (SNS 24).
It keeps track of everything:
- My child’s vaccination records
- Exam results
- Medical prescriptions
- Appointments and medical history
What’s even better:
👉 Even when we go to private doctors, prescriptions still show up in the SNS app — which means I can buy subsidized medication directly from the pharmacy.
It’s truly one of the few systems that feels connected and easy to use!
Real-Life Tips from a Fellow Parent
Language: In hospitals, many staff speak basic English. In Centros de Saúde, however, English is rarely spoken.
Write down your questions in Portuguese, keep Google Translate handy, or bring a Portuguese-speaking friend if possible.
When to go (and whether to bring kids): Mornings at health centers are very busy. If you’re going just to get an SNS number, it’s often better to go in the afternoon, when things are calmer.
No need to bring your child: In most cases, one parent can register the child. We were able to do this as a married couple with matching surnames.
Snacks help: Bureaucracy takes time. Bring water, snacks, and patience.
Your Family’s Health Is Worth It
Getting your SNS number might feel like yet another piece of Portuguese bureaucracy — but it’s one of the most useful steps you can take. With it, you and your family can access quality public healthcare, often for free or at very low cost.
Need help with more relocation steps?
Download our Family Relocation Guide
Related Articles
- How to Get a NIF in Portugal: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Opening a Bank Account in Portugal: What You Need to Know
- Enrolling Your Children in Portuguese Schools: A Practical Overview
