Changing your healthcare centre

When you move house, it is recommended that you request a transfer to the Portuguese National Health Service (SNS) healthcare centre corresponding to your new area of residence.

You are not obliged to transfer, but you should give preference to the healthcare centre closest to your new address.

Service channels

Learn where you can carry out the service and what are the advantages of each channel

  • Change at the location

    Check the health centre of SNS to which you want to be transferred

    Free of charge

    Search for a point of service near you:

Who can change their healthcare centre?

How much does it cost to register at a healthcare centre?

What documents are needed and what are the requirements for registering at a healthcare centre?

  • You will need to take certain documents along with you when you go to the healthcare centre.

    If you are a Portuguese citizen, you must bring your Citizen Card and indicate your home address. You must also bring proof of any healthcare benefits to which you are entitled (for example, exemptions and contributions).

    If you are a foreign national, you must bring the following documents:

    • your residence permit,
    • proof of the healthcare benefits to which you are entitled (e.g. exemptions and contributions),
    • your permanent residence address in Portugal,
    • your civil identification number,
    • your tax identification number.

How do I change my healthcare centre?

You can register at any SNS healthcare centre, but it is recommended that you choose one in the area where you live.

You should go to the healthcare centre where you want to receive healthcare and take the necessary documents with you.

You should let the healthcare centre know if you are entitled to any benefits, such as an exemption from user charges or special contributions towards medicines.

Related topics

Practical guides