The NISS (Social Security Identification Number) is a personal and non-transferable number that identifies each citizen to the Portuguese Social Security system.
It is essential for working legally in Portugal, accessing social support, starting a business as a self-employed person, or engaging in any professional activity.
With NISS, you can:
- Register employment contracts and contributions;
- Receive social benefits (subsidies, sick leave, parental leave, etc.);
- Declare income and comply with tax obligations;
- Access public and private services that require social identification.
In short, the NISS is your official Social Security registration number, which is essential for living and working in Portugal.
Who can apply for a NISS in Portugal?
The NISS (Social Security Identification Number) can be requested by different people, depending on their situation in Portugal:
- Portuguese citizens:Individuals who do not yet have a Social Security Number (SSN), for example, young people who are starting work for the first time.
- Foreign citizens:Foreign residents or workers who need the number to sign an employment contract or engage in professional activities.
- Self-employed workers:Sole proprietors or freelancers who need a NISS to start a business and make contributions.
- Students and interns:Students with paid or professional internships that require Social Security registration.
- Parents or guardians:To request a NISS number for children or minors who do not yet have their own number.
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Types of NISS applications available
You can apply for your NISS online according to your situation. Select the type of application that applies to you and follow the steps indicated.
Foreign citizens
Application for foreigners who wish to live or work in Portugal and do not yet have a Social Security number
Self-employed workers
Suitable for self-employed professionals, sole proprietors, and freelancers who need to register their business and make contributions.
Portuguese citizens
For those who are starting their first professional activity and do not yet have a NISS assigned by Social Security
Students or interns
For students with paid internships or contracts that require Social Security registration
– Preenches o formulário online. Nós tratamos da burocracia. Tu recebes o resultado. –
How does the online NISS application work?
Applying for a Social Security Number (SSN) is simple and completely digital. Follow these steps to complete your application online safely and quickly:
Fill out the online form
Enter your personal details and select the type of application that applies to your situation (e.g., foreign citizen, self-employed, student, etc.).
Submit the required documents
Attach the requested files such as passport or citizen card, proof of address, and employment contract, if applicable.
Processing by our team
A equipa da e-Registo.pt verifica as informações e trata de todo o processo de forma rápida e segura.
Receive your NISS by email
Após processamento, recebe as credenciais de acesso ao portal oficial para completar a validação e obter o seu NISS.
Documents required to apply for a NISS in Portugal
To apply for your NISS online, it is important to gather some documents in advance. The requirements may vary depending on your situation (Portuguese citizen, foreigner, self-employed worker, etc.), but in general the following will be requested:
- Identification document: Valid citizen card, passport, or residence permit.
- Proof of address in Portugal: This can be a rental agreement, utility bill (water, electricity, internet), or declaration of residence.
- Proof of professional affiliation (where applicable): Employment contract, statement from the employer, or registration with the tax authorities (for self-employed workers).
- NISS application form: Available through e-Registo.pt, completed online, and submitted securely.
Frequently Asked Questions
The NISS (Social Security Identification Number) is the number that identifies each person with the Portuguese Social Security. It is necessary to work, start a business, receive social benefits, and comply with legal obligations in Portugal.
Anyone living or working in Portugal can apply for a NISS, including Portuguese citizens, foreign residents, self-employed workers, students, and parents who need the number for their children.
Foreign citizens can obtain a NISS even before starting their professional activity in Portugal, provided they submit the necessary documents.
The average processing time is 3 to 10 business days, depending on the individual situation and the response from Social Security.
O custo do serviço é de 95€, incluindo as taxas e encargos aplicáveis ao procedimento. O preço final cobre todo o processo desde a submissão do pedido até à obtenção das credenciais de acesso ao portal oficial da Segurança Social, onde poderá completar a verificação e obter o seu NISS. Se preferir submeter o pedido diretamente através da Segurança Social sem intermediação, o custo é inferior, mas terá de gerir todo o processo por conta própria.
You will normally be asked to provide: identification (passport or citizen card), proof of address and, if applicable, an employment contract or proof of self-employment.
Após processamento do pedido, receberá as credenciais de acesso ao portal oficial da Segurança Social para completar a verificação e obter o seu NISS.