Life Insurance for Your Mortgage and Health Insurance
You don’t have to take out your mortgage life insurance with the bank providing the loan. We compare cover and prices from leading insurers to find a policy that suits your circumstances, rather than simply accepting the bank’s proposal.
Mortgage Life Insurance
When you take out a mortgage, the bank requires life insurance that covers the outstanding loan balance. However, it cannot require you to buy that insurance from its chosen insurer, provided an alternative policy offers equivalent cover. Over 30 or 40 years, the difference in cost can be significant.
We look at the full cost. If the bank offers a lower mortgage spread when you take out its insurance, we compare the total cost of both options before you decide. If you already have a mortgage, we assess whether switching insurance could save you money — or even moving your mortgage to another bank.
Health insurance
For those living in Portugal with professional ties abroad, access to quality private healthcare is not a luxury — it is a practical necessity. We work with the leading insurers in the market to identify the right coverage for your profile, your family and your lifestyle — including international coverage where needed.
FAQ
Do I need health insurance to obtain residency in Portugal?
Whether you need private health insurance to reside in Portugal depends on your visa type. People who work remotely for foreign companies or receive passive income — including D8 and D7 visa applicants — must provide proof of health cover valid in Portugal. Those employed by a Portuguese company have access to the National Health Service through Social Security, although many also choose private insurance for quicker access to care. We help you understand what makes sense for your circumstances.
Do I have to take out life insurance with the bank where I get my mortgage?
Life insurance is not required by law, but a bank may require it as a condition of the loan. Taking out a policy with another insurer could lead to significant savings, although it may affect your mortgage terms. We compare the cover and overall cost of the alternatives, including any impact on the mortgage interest rate, so you can make an informed decision.
What is the difference between life insurance and health insurance?
Life insurance may cover the risk of death and, depending on the coverage selected, disability. It is often required in connection with a mortgage to protect the outstanding loan balance. Health insurance covers medical expenses and access to private healthcare. They are distinct products, with different purposes and coverage. We work with both.
Can I change the life insurance policy on my existing mortgage?
You can generally change the life insurance policy associated with your mortgage at any time, provided the new policy meets the requirements of your mortgage agreement. Before you switch, we check whether you would lose any discount on your mortgage interest rate and compare the total cost of both options. In many cases, switching policies can lead to significant savings on life insurance.