FAQ
- After making the payment and filling the form, be sure you finished it at all. Please, note that the process can be started only after receiving all required documents. The timeframe counts only by working days, excluding weekends, official Portuguese holidays, strikes, as well as other technical errors for which the social service did not work.
Who can applying for a social security identification number (NISS)?
Foreign nationals who are in Portugal to work:
- as employees;
- as self-employed workers;
- as domestic workers.
How long does it take to acquire a NISS?
Generally, it takes from a couple of days to a couple of weeks to issue a NISS, however, it should be noted that the time depends first of all on the Social Security office and there have been cases when clients have waited more than a month to get their NISS.
Hence, you should always prepare for the longest scenario that may take more than 4 weeks. Please, take a note that the timeframe counts from the day of signing the Power of Attorney.
Do I need to have a Portuguese address?
You should enter address in Portugal, it can be your address, address of your friend, hotel, hostel other.
There are not required to show any proof for it.
What documents are required to make a NISS?
There are only 2 documents required:
Scan of international passport or EU citizen ID card
NIF
NISS SOCIAL SECURITY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
This is the number assigned by the Portuguese Social Security System.
Individuals can have access to health care, unemployment benefits and pensions in Portugal.
Social Security Identification Numbers (NISS) allow for unique, precise and accurate identification at a national level for social security purposes and allow access to rights and obligations. It is also applicable to foreigners who reside in Portugal and who do not yet have a NISS.
The process of obtain a Portuguese NISS
Prepare documents
Complete Identification
Sign the aplication
Receive your NISS
In a single file, please insert your ID document and the documents required to assess your application:
- proof of employment status:
- employment contract or copy of the document attesting the self-employment activity beginning and copy of the receipts/invoices or;
- company registration certificate issued by the Institute of Registries and Notary (IRN).
- proof of application for residence regularisation:
- proof of application for a residence permit or;
- proof of application for a residence visa for citizens of the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP) or;
- proof of application for a Residence Permit Certificate for CPLP citizens.