When you decide to move to Portugal, it is sometimes difficult to complete those administrative procedures that can become a vicious circle in which it is difficult to see the end. Obtaining a Portuguese social security number (NISS) is not easy and is one of the mandatory steps for any expatriate wishing to work in Portugal. Although the rules have been relaxed in recent years, applying for and obtaining a Portuguese social security number is still a complicated process. Obtaining a Portuguese national insurance number NISS for foreigners is not only a headache for people who want to work, but also for companies who want to hire them. What are the steps to follow to obtain a Portuguese social security number in Portugal if you are a foreigner? What is the process to obtain your Portuguese NISS number as an expatriate? I am Lisbob, the assistant for expats, and I tell you everything about the conditions to obtain the Portuguese social security number as foreigners.

What is the NISS?

The NISS (Numero de Identificação de Segurança Social) is an identification number assigned by the Portuguese administration to each person residing in Portugal. This number is used to register with social services and to access social benefits and services (health, unemployment, pension, etc.).

The NISS is a unique and permanent number, which will follow you throughout your life in Portugal. If you are legally resident in Portugal and wish to work there, we strongly recommend that you apply for the NISS as soon as possible. Without the NISS, it will be impossible for you to be hired by a Portuguese company.

Who can apply for and obtain a Portuguese social security number ?

To apply for and obtain a Portuguese national insurance number (NISS), foreigners must be legally resident in Portugal and present a NIF, a Portuguese tax identification number. EU nationals do not need to be in possession of a residence permit.

It should be remembered that registration with the Portuguese Social Security does not automatically entitle you to social assistance. In fact, you should not use it as a source of temporary assistance until you have found a job in Portugal, as you have not yet started to pay contributions.

Persons in an irregular situation are not entitled to a Portuguese social security number.

What documents do I need to provide to obtain my NISS in Portugal?

If you decide to submit your application online, you will only need to provide:

Copy of your NIF;
Copy of your identity card (passport for non-EU citizens);
NEW Since November 2023, EU citizens also have to provide a copy of the CRUE, the Certificate of Residency.

For people who are not yet employed and who need this social security number to be hired by a Portuguese company, it is best to apply online, directly on our website.

How to apply for a NISS online?

To apply for a Portuguese NISS online, you must prepare :

Copy of your NIF;
Copy of your passport or identity card;
Copy of the CRUE;
Portuguese address (you will not be asked for any proof of address);
Portuguese telephone number (required).

Then, just fill in the form on our website, available by clicking here.

It takes about a week to get your NISS.

Good to know

It is not enough to have a social security number as a foreigner to be able to work in Portugal. In fact, expatriate citizens must also apply for a residence visa in the country - which they must obtain from the Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF) - and a Tax Identification Number (NIF) - which they must obtain from a Finanças office.