Your gateway to the Portuguese social security system. Access public healthcare, social benefits, and employment eligibility.
The NISS (Número de Identificação da Segurança Social) is your Social Security Identification Number. While the NIF is for taxes, the NISS is for your social welfare and health.
Having a NISS allows you to work legally in Portugal (as an employee or freelancer), contribute to the social security system, and most importantly, access the SNS (National Health Service).
Whether you are a D7 retiree, a D8 digital nomad, or an employee, obtaining a NISS is a critical step in integrating into the Portuguese system.
Prerequisite for employment contracts
Essential for registering at a Health Center (Centro de Saúde)
Grants access to public healthcare (SNS)
Required to pay social security contributions
Necessary for maternity/paternity and sick leave benefits
Passport, NIF document, and depending on your status, a residence permit, visa, or employment contract.
Once you have your NISS, you can register at your local Centro de Saúde to get your Utente Number for public healthcare access.
We also help you set up access to Segurança Social Direta, the online portal where you can manage your contributions and benefits.
A simple, transparent process to get you sorted.
We collect your ID documents and NIF. If you are non-EU, we prepare the specific forms required.
We submit the application to the Social Security Institute (Segurança Social).
The institute processes the request. Timelines vary but typically take 5-10 business days.
You receive your NISS number via email, ready for use with employers or health centers.
Ensure your access to healthcare and social security from day one.