Portugal admits to subsidising health care for British tourists after Brexit

To minimise the effect of Brexit, Portugal is considering subsidising health care for British tourists. The measure was announced by the Secretary of State for Tourism, Rita Marques, in an interview with the British newspaper The Guardian.

With the departure of the UK from the European Union, the British may no longer be entitled to the European Health Insurance Card, which gives European citizens free or reduced-cost access to health care in Member States. The measure on the table was for Portugal to provide this same cover for the British in the country.

“The idea is that they would pay the same as a Portuguese, which is a small tax to consult a doctor or visit a hospital,” explained Rita Marques. This health care coverage, which is under analysis and would come into force next year, would involve agreements with public and private hospitals.

The Secretary of State for Tourism has indicated that this idea is being tested, but also others. Among the measures that Portugal is planning to open separate customs lanes for British visitors’ passports, special agreements to continue to recognise the British driving licence and entry for British pets.