In Portugal, pensioners who receive the Solidary Supplement for the Elderly (CSI) have free access to state-reimbursed medicines. To benefit from this measure, all that is needed is to present the medical prescription at the pharmacy, with no additional cost. More than 220 thousand elderly people have taken advantage of this benefit in 2026.
However, there is an important condition: those who recently applied for the CSI only become entitled to free medicines after receiving the first payment of the supplement. Simply submitting the application or waiting for a decision from Social Security is not sufficient to start enjoying this advantage.
The number of CSI beneficiaries has grown significantly. In June 2026, approximately 245.5 thousand people received this monthly support, representing a 75% increase compared to April 2024. This growth is due to changes in the assignment conditions, including the increase in the reference value to 670 euros and the elimination of consideration of children's income.
The CSI is a cash support aimed at elderly people with low resources and, in addition to the monthly amount, grants access to health benefits. More than half of the beneficiaries received more than 200 euros per month in June 2026, with one in five people receiving more than 300 euros. The application can be submitted through Direct Social Security or in person at the relevant services.
