The NISS (Número de Identificação da Segurança Social) is your gateway to healthcare, employment rights, and social security benefits in Portugal. With new 2024 requirements, expert guidance is essential.
Portugal has introduced stricter NISS application requirements. Applicants must now provide proof of employment status AND proof of residence permit application or valid visa. These new rules have created significant challenges for many applicants. Our legal team ensures your application meets all current requirements.
The NISS (Número de Identificação da Segurança Social) is your 11-digit Social Security identification number in Portugal. It's issued by the Instituto da Segurança Social (ISS) and serves as your unique identifier within Portugal's comprehensive social protection system.
Unlike the NIF (tax number), which is primarily for tax purposes, the NISS connects your employment activity with benefit entitlements, contribution records, and access to Portugal's social services including the National Health Service (SNS).
The NISS was once a secondary step in the relocation process. However, with the new AIMA requirements, it has become a critical dependency for residence permit applications and renewals. Without a valid NISS, AIMA will reject new applications and block online renewals after June 30, 2025.
Access healthcare, pensions, and employment rights
From healthcare access to employment rights, your NISS is essential for building your life in Portugal.
Full integration with the Portuguese National Health Service (SNS) for comprehensive medical coverage.
Required for legal employment contracts, social security contributions, and unemployment benefits.
Mandatory for AIMA residence permit applications and renewals since the new 2024 requirements.
Access maternity/paternity leave, child allowances, and family support programs.
Portugal introduced stricter NISS application requirements on July 2, 2024. Here's what changed and how we help you navigate it.
Previously, foreign nationals could apply for a NISS before applying for a residence permit. The new rules have fundamentally changed this process, creating what many call a "bureaucratic trap" — you need a permit to get a NISS, but need a NISS to get a permit.
Only passport/ID and basic personal information required. NISS could be requested before residence permit.
Three types of documents now required: ID, proof of employment status, AND proof of residence permit application.
NISS will become a mandatory field in AIMA's online portal. Without it, you won't be able to submit renewal applications digitally.
You must provide one of the following:
You must provide one of the following:
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens must obtain a CRUE certificate (Certificado de Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia) from their local municipal council before applying for NISS.
Understanding when you need a NISS helps you plan your relocation properly.
If you're working for a Portuguese company, your employer is legally obligated to register you with Segurança Social. They use your employment contract as the basis to request NISS on your behalf.
If you're a freelancer or self-employed, you must initiate the NISS process yourself. Your "início de atividade" registration with Finanças serves as your proof of economic activity.
AIMA is increasingly requesting NISS for residence permit renewals — including D7 visa holders (retirees) who originally weren't required to have one.
Under the new 2024 rules, you must gather these documents before we can submit your NISS application. We'll guide you through obtaining each one.
The new requirements can be confusing. Our team will analyze your specific situation and tell you exactly what documents are required.
Get Expert GuidanceFull application handling by our licensed legal team. We navigate the new requirements so you don't have to.
Complete application handling with expert guidance
We've streamlined the complex NISS process so you can focus on your move to Portugal.
Verify you have the required documents and complete the secure payment process.
Upload your ID, NIF, employment proof, and residence documents through our secure portal.
Our team prepares and submits your application to Segurança Social, handling all communication.
Once approved, we deliver your official NISS document directly to your email.
Navigate the new 2024 requirements with confidence. Our licensed legal team handles everything from document preparation to submission.
