Working in Portugal
Employment in Portugal is registered with Social Security, so you need a NISS to work legally.
Portuguese NISS
Get your Portuguese NISS number the simple way
The NISS is your Social Security number in Portugal — you need it to work, pay contributions and access benefits. We prepare the application and deal with Segurança Social for you.
Talk to an advisor- For employees, freelancers and founders
- NIF and eligibility checked first
- Followed up until it is issued
Relocate to Portugal 
The basics
What is a NISS number in Portugal?
NISS stands for Número de Identificação da Segurança Social — your official Social Security identification number in Portugal. It is issued by the Social Security authorities, through the Instituto da Segurança Social, and it is the number that links you to the country's social protection system.
With a NISS you can work legally, pay your social contributions and access healthcare, pensions and other state benefits. Without one, you cannot be formally employed or register for many public services. It is required whether you are an EU or a non-EU resident.
Anyone moving to Portugal to take a job, work as a freelancer, start a business or combine studies with part-time work will need one. The process is bureaucratic, especially for non-EU citizens, which is why our team handles each step for you — from checking your documents to following up with Segurança Social.
Why you need it
What you need a Social Security number for
The NISS sits behind most of your working life in Portugal.
Employment contracts
Employers need your NISS to put a contract in place and register you as their employee.
Freelancing and self-employment
If you work for yourself or start a business, your contributions are paid under your NISS.
Social contributions
Your Social Security contributions — and the rights they build — are recorded against this number.
Healthcare and benefits
The NISS gives you access to healthcare and state benefits, such as support linked to your contributions.
Pensions
The years you contribute in Portugal count towards your pension through your NISS record.
Requirements
Requirements to apply for a NISS
Segurança Social will want to see the following before it issues your number.
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A valid passport or ID card
A current identity document is needed to open the application.
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A residential address
Your address can be in Portugal or abroad. It is used for official correspondence.
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Proof of legal stay (non-EU residents)
Non-EU citizens must show a valid visa or residence permit.
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A reason for the NISS
Proof of why you need it — for example an employment contract, self-employed activity or enrolment in studies.
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A Portuguese NIF
In most cases you must already hold a Portuguese tax number before you can apply for a NISS.
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Submission to Segurança Social
The application is filed with the Instituto da Segurança Social, in person or through a representative.
How it works
How to get a NISS in Portugal, step by step
- 01
Case assessment
We look at why you need the NISS — a job, freelance work, a business or studies — and what Social Security will expect.
- 02
NIF and eligibility check
We confirm you already have a NIF and that your visa or residence permit and supporting documents are in order.
- 03
Application prepared and filed
Our team completes the forms and submits them to the Social Security office on your behalf.
- 04
Follow-up until issued
We stay in contact with Segurança Social until your NISS is issued and confirmed, then send it to you.
Our service
What our NISS service includes
We manage the full application, from the documents to the conversations with the authorities.
Personal case assessment
A review of your situation so the application is made on the right basis from the start.
NIF and eligibility verification
We check your tax number and every requirement before anything is submitted.
Forms prepared and submitted
Every application form is completed and filed correctly, without you queuing at an office.
Filing at Segurança Social
We submit your application to the Social Security office and handle any follow-up questions.
Follow-up to confirmation
We chase the application until your NISS has been issued and confirmed.
One dedicated contact
The same advisor looks after your application from the first message to the final number.
After the visa
Legal & Financial Setup
Our support carries on once your visa is granted. From your Portuguese NIF number to your bank account, we take care of the details so you can settle in with confidence and peace of mind.
Taxes
Start compliant from day one, with tax guidance built around expats and businesses.
NIF / Bank
Get your Portuguese tax number (NIF) and a Portuguese bank account quickly and without the hassle.
Learn moreCompany Formation
Launch your business in Portugal with full legal support, from setting it up to registering it.
Employee Relocation
Move your team smoothly, with visa, tax and legal support at every step.
Portugal questions
NISS number: questions answered
Get answers to common questions about visa applications, requirements, and processes.
What is a NISS number?
It is the Número de Identificação da Segurança Social, your Social Security identification number in Portugal. It lets you work legally, pay social contributions and access healthcare, pensions and other state benefits.
Who needs a NISS in Portugal?
Anyone who works in Portugal, whether employed, freelancing, running a business or working part-time while studying. It applies to both EU and non-EU residents.
Do I need a NIF before applying for a NISS?
In most cases, yes. Segurança Social usually expects you to hold a Portuguese tax number (NIF) before it issues a NISS. If you do not have one yet, we can arrange your NIF first.
Can non-EU citizens get a NISS?
Yes. Non-EU citizens need to show proof of legal stay — a valid visa or residence permit — together with a reason for the application, such as a job contract, self-employment or studies.
Do I have to apply in person?
No. The application can be filed with the Instituto da Segurança Social in person or through a representative. When you use our service, we file it for you.
What is the difference between the NIF and the NISS?
The NIF is your tax number, issued by Finanças, and you need it for almost every financial step. The NISS is your Social Security number, issued by Segurança Social, and you need it to work and access benefits.
Right here with you, wherever you're headed
Local offices. Global support.
Relocating is easier with people on your side. With offices in Portugal, the UK, the UAE, Turkey and Australia, our team is on the ground to help you settle in with confidence.
- PT
Coimbra, Portugal
Praça da República 9, Sala 8, 3070-304 Mira, Coimbra, Portugal +351 938 599 748 - GB
London, United Kingdom
30 Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London W1J 6EF, UK +44 (0) 203 393 1028 - AE
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Silicon Oasis, Digital Park, IFZA Buildings A2, Dubai +971 56 00 65 007 - TR
İstanbul, Turkey
Bostancı Mah, Bağdat Cad. No: 472/A, Kadıköy / İstanbul +90 530 754 35 67 - AU
Melbourne, Australia
Suite 329/98-100 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia +61 1300 440 170
Other services
More ways we help in Portugal
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