Healthcare · Decision Guide
IMG Global for Expats in Portugal (2026)
IMG Global offers international health insurance at mid-tier prices—between premium providers like Cigna and budget options like SafetyWing. For US expats in particular, IMG is a familiar name.
This page covers using IMG Global for your Portugal move—visa compliance, plan options, costs, and how it compares to alternatives.
Last reviewed: January 2026
Decision-support content for research purposes. Not legal, tax, or financial advice. Verify with official sources.
This guide helps you understand whether IMG Global is right for your Portugal visa.
- Understand which IMG plans may meet Portuguese requirements
- Compare IMG's positioning vs premium and budget options
- Know what to verify before using IMG for a visa
- See how IMG fits US expats specifically
IMG Global at a glance
Key facts about using IMG Global for Portugal.
| Visa compliance | Verify carefully Some plans may meet requirements |
| Plan types | Global Medical, Patriot Different coverage levels |
| Monthly cost | €100-250+ Mid-tier pricing |
| Best for | US expats, value seekers Those seeking middle ground |
Key tradeoffs
Important considerations that affect most people in this situation.
Why people consider IMG
- • More affordable than Cigna/Allianz
- • Familiar to US expats
- • Multiple plan tiers
- • Decent coverage at lower cost
Considerations
- • Less recognized at Portuguese consulates
- • Verify visa compliance carefully
- • Some plans have limitations
- • Not designed specifically for Europe
IMG Global and Portuguese visa requirements
IMG can work for Portuguese visas, but verification is essential.
Portuguese consulates require comprehensive private health insurance. IMG's Global Medical Insurance may satisfy these requirements—it's structured as traditional health insurance with good coverage limits.
IMG is less commonly seen by Portuguese consulates than Cigna or Allianz. This means documentation may be scrutinized more carefully. Ensure your certificate clearly states coverage terms.
For D7 visas: IMG may work if you have comprehensive coverage with high limits and clear documentation. Verify before purchasing.
For Digital Nomad Visas: Similar situation—IMG is more likely to be accepted than SafetyWing but requires verification.
- Global Medical Insurance most likely to meet requirements
- Less familiar to Portuguese officials than Cigna/Allianz
- Clear documentation is essential
- Verify specific plan terms before purchasing
IMG for US expats moving to Portugal
IMG has particular relevance for Americans.
IMG focuses significantly on the American expat market. US expats often feel comfortable with the company's approach and customer service style.
For Americans moving to Portugal, IMG offers familiar service with international coverage. The mid-tier pricing appeals to those who find Cigna/Allianz expensive but want better coverage than SafetyWing.
What IMG Global costs
IMG sits in the mid-tier price range.
For comprehensive Global Medical Insurance, expect roughly €100-200/month for a 35-year-old, increasing with age.
This is 25-40% less than Cigna or Allianz, but more than SafetyWing. The question is whether the savings justify additional verification effort for visa compliance.
Common pitfalls
Issues that frequently catch people off guard in this area.
Common questions
Is IMG Global accepted for Portugal's D7 visa?
It depends on the plan and consulate. IMG's Global Medical Insurance may meet requirements, but it's less commonly seen than Cigna or Allianz. Verify carefully.
How does IMG compare to Cigna for Portugal?
IMG is 25-40% cheaper but less recognized by Portuguese consulates. You're trading some certainty for cost savings.
Examples
These are examples of providers in this space, not endorsements. Options, features, and pricing change. Research current offerings before making decisions.
- IMG Global Medical — Comprehensive, most likely to meet requirements
- IMG Patriot International — US expat focused, verify compliance
Next steps
Continue your research with these related guides.
Sources & references
Provider Information
- IMG Global – Official plans
Information gathered from these sources as of January 2026. Requirements and procedures may change.