Free Algarve event explains Portugal’s healthcare system to foreigners

The Algarve municipality of Lagos will host a free information session this week aimed at helping foreign residents better understand how Portugal’s healthcare system works.

Entitled “Health in Portugal: Information and Access for All”, the event will take place on Thursday, June 11 at 2.30pm in the auditorium of the town hall, also known as the Paços do Concelho Século XXI building.

Organised by the municipality’s Local Support Centre for the Integration of Migrants (CLAIM), the session is intended for foreign residents living in the municipality and forms part of the centre’s 2026 programme of activities. Despite being aimed at foreigners, the event will be held in Portuguese.

The initiative aims to provide practical information about access to healthcare services in Portugal, including how the National Health Service (SNS) operates, patients’ rights and responsibilities, and issues related to public health, vaccination and community wellbeing.

The programme will feature contributions from professionals representing the Algarve Local Health Unit (ULS Algarve) and Lagos municipal council.

Topics to be discussed include municipal support services available to migrant residents, access to healthcare through health centres and hospitals, and broader public and community health matters.

According to organisers, the session forms part of ongoing efforts to improve access to information and support the integration of migrant communities in the municipality.

Participation is free, but advance registration is required.

Through the initiative, the municipal council of Lagos says it aims to promote inclusion, equal access to information and greater awareness of healthcare services among foreign residents, helping foster a more informed and integrated community.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.