How to get your NISS (Portuguese social security number)

What it is

The NISS (Número de Identificação da Segurança Social) is your social security number in Portugal. Employers need it to register you and pay contributions, and you need it for benefits such as sick pay, parental leave and, later, a pension. Self-employed workers need it too.

Who can get one

Any foreign citizen who is in Portugal legally can request a NISS, whether or not they're working yet.

Before you start

You'll need:

A valid identity document: passport, EU identity card, visa, or residence permit.
Your NIF, if you already have one.
An email address.

Steps

Choose how to apply:
- Online, on the social security website (Segurança Social): find the request for a NISS for foreign citizens, fill in the form and attach a scanned copy of your identity document.
- In person, at a social security service centre.
- At an Espaço Cidadão that offers the joint service for foreigners, together with your NIF and health service number.
Submit your request.
Wait for an email confirming your NISS and explaining how to complete the process.
Verify your identity if asked. Some requests are completed by checking your identity with biometrics (facial recognition or fingerprints), online or at an office.
Give your NISS to your employer, or use it to register as self-employed.

Cost

Free.

Common pitfalls

Starting work without it. Your employer needs your NISS to register you. Request it as soon as you have a job offer, or before.
A blurry scan. Requests with unreadable documents are refused. Scan the full photo page in colour.
Mixing up NISS and NIF. The NIF is for tax, the NISS for social security. Most workers need both.
Not setting up Segurança Social Direta. Create your online account once you have your NISS. You'll use it to check contributions and request benefits.

When to ask a helper

If your request is stuck, you're self-employed and unsure about contributions, or you're moving from another EU country's system, ask someone who's done the same.