Updated April 2026 · 6 min read

How to get health insurance in Brazil as a foreigner (2026)

Private health insurance options for foreigners in Brazil. Compare Amil, SulAmerica, Bradesco Saude, and more.

SUS is free but private is worth it

Brazil has universal public healthcare through SUS (Sistema Unico de Saude). As a CPF holder, you have the right to use it. SUS covers everything from basic consultations to complex surgeries, completely free.

However, SUS can involve long wait times for non-emergency procedures. Most expats and middle-class Brazilians carry private health insurance (plano de saude) for faster access and more comfortable facilities. Private plans cost R$200-800/month depending on age and coverage.

You need a CPF to sign up for any health insurance plan in Brazil.

The major providers

Amil, One of Brazil's largest, owned by UnitedHealth. Strong hospital network in SP and RJ. Good English-speaking doctor availability in major cities.

SulAmerica, Premium provider with excellent coverage. Higher cost but wider network of top-tier hospitals. Popular with executives and expats.

Bradesco Saude, Part of Bradesco bank. Solid coverage, competitive pricing. Good option if you already bank with Bradesco.

Notre Dame Intermedica, Strong in Sao Paulo. Good cost-to-coverage ratio. Owns many of its own hospitals which keeps costs down.

Unimed, Cooperative model, so coverage varies by city. Excellent in some regions (Florianopolis, Curitiba), less consistent in others.

How to choose

Start by checking which hospitals and clinics are in each provider's network in YOUR city. A plan is only as good as the doctors and hospitals you can actually access.

Individual vs corporate plans: Corporate plans through an employer are significantly cheaper and have fewer restrictions. If you work for a Brazilian company, always take their health plan.

For individuals: Use comparison sites like Jera Saude or contact a health insurance broker (corretor de seguros). Brokers do not charge you, they earn commission from the insurer and can navigate the options much faster than doing it yourself.

Minimum coverage to look for: Hospitalization (internacao), emergency (pronto socorro), outpatient consultations (consultas), and basic exams (exames). Dental is usually a separate plan.

The sign-up process

You will need your CPF, passport, proof of address, and payment method. Most plans have a carencia (waiting period) of 24-180 days for certain procedures. Emergency coverage usually starts immediately.

Some plans require a health questionnaire. Pre-existing conditions must be declared and may have a 24-month waiting period for related procedures. Do not try to hide conditions, it can void your coverage when you need it most.

Monthly payments are via boleto or automatic debit from a Brazilian bank account.