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Get Your Social Security Number (NISS) in Portugal
If you are planning to move to Portugal and want to become a citizen of the beautiful European Union country, you have to understand the complications of living in Portugal. It involves making yourself familiar with essential aspects, one of the most important steps is to obtain the Portuguese NISS, or Número de Identificação de Segurança Social. In this article, we’ll discuss the significance of the NISS, why it is important, and how to get your social security number (NISS) in Portugal.
What is the NISS in Portugal?
The Portuguese NISS, is a unique identification number which is assigned to every individual for social security purposes. It plays an important role in accessing various social services, including healthcare, employment benefits, and many more. Whether you are a resident or a non-resident, or a freelancer, having a NISS is essential for the social security system and taxation purpose in Portugal.
Why Do You Need to get your social security number (NISS) in Portugal?
The Portuguese NISS (Número de Identificação de Segurança Social) is important for several reasons, as it serves as a gateway to accessing various social security benefits and services in Portugal. Here are the main reasons why you need a Portuguese NISS:
Employment and Social Benefits:
If you are a freelancer, student or planning to work in Portugal, having a NISS is an important document for employment. Employers use this number to register their employees with the social security system. So that it makes them eligible for different social benefits, including unemployment benefits, pensions, health insurance and many more.
Access to Healthcare:
One of the primary reasons for get your social security number (NISS) in Portugal is to access the Portuguese healthcare system. With a NISS, you can register yourself for health services. To access public healthcare in Portugal you’ll need a unique identifying number called SNS number (Serviço Nacional de Saúde’). To apply for this number firstly you need your NIF and NISS both. After getting your SNS number you are eligible to get coverage for medical expenses and treatments in Portugal.
Family Allowances:
The social security system is designed to provide financial support for the benefit of individuals and families. Families in Portugal may receive financial support in the form of family allowances. Having a NISS is necessary for applying and receiving these benefits.
Who will get the NISS benefits?
Social security benefits in Portugal are available to Portuguese nationals, legal residents of Portugal, and qualifying EU nationals, as well as spouses and dependents of the relative person. A non-contributory program is also available for those who do not meet the minimum income standards according to Portugal law. The social security system is designed to provide financial support to those who find themselves in need due to old age, disability, illness, unemployment, work-related accidents, or any other relative situations. To be eligible for Social security benefits, you need to have paid taxes in the country for a certain period of time.
How to get your Social Security Number (NISS) in Portugal?
Getting a Portuguese NISS is a crucial process. In this article we will guide you step by step to help you understand the complete process.
If you want to apply in person then you have to follow these 4 steps:
- Visit the Social Security Office (Segurança Social):
The first step is to visit the local Social Security office known in Portugal as a “Segurança Social” in your area. Bring your identification documents along with you, such as your passport or ID card, proof of residence, NIF, and any relevant employment or financial documentation.
- Complete the Application Form:
You will be provided with an application form. Fill in the required information, including personal details, address, and employment status.
- Provide Necessary Documents:
Submit the required documents along with your application. This may include proof of residence, a work contract, or any other documents if requested by the Social Security office.
- Attend an Appointment (if required):
In some of the cases, you have to attend an appointment to finalize the application process. During the appointment, the Social Security officials may ask some questions, and verify your information.
Receive Your NISS:
Once your application is processed and approved, you will be issued a Portuguese NISS. This is a unique number and will be used for social security purposes.
Note: After Segurança Social (the Portuguese social security department) approves the applicant’s supporting documents, there can be a long waiting time before the applicant receives a formal letter stating their social security number.
However, there is one more option that will simplify this process of get your social security number (NISS) in Portugal. You can just stick to the assistance of the service providers and get your NISS without any hassle.
Which documents are required for Portuguese NISS:
- Filling the application form
- Your NIF (Taxpayer Identification Number)
- ID document (A valid passport or citizen card original document)
- 1st and 2nd page of your passport
- Your Mother name
Do you want to make the process of getting NISS as easy as possible? There is a simple solution you can take advantage of. By taking the service of NIFNISS.pt. In this case, you can even ask to get NISS online!
We will describe all the procedures in a very clear manner to make things easier for you.
- First of all you have to make sure that all your documents are ready
- NIF number and ID (if you do not have NIF number, then get NIF first)
- Then, fill the application on the NIFNISS.pt site
- Next step is ID verification
- You can expect to get NISS within a period of five to ten business days
So, as you can see in the guide, to get your social security number (NISS) in Portugal online through NIFNISS.pt is a simple and easier process, not as hard as you imagine.
There are some common Misconceptions about the Portuguese NISS
1- Residency Requirement
Some people beliefs, you don’t necessarily need to be a resident to obtain a NISS. Whether you’re a resident or a non-resident working in Portugal, having a NISS is important for accessing social security benefits.
2- Language Barrier
While some may worry about a language barrier during the application process, many Social Security offices have staff who speak English or provide forms in multiple languages. Don’t let language concerns stop you from getting your NISS.
3- Limited Use
Some people might think that the NISS is only needed for employment-related matters. However, its scope extends so much of daily life, including healthcare, family benefits, and pension contributions.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, to get your social security number (NISS) in Portugal is very important for ensuring your access to social security benefits and services in Portugal. Whether you’re a resident or a non-resident, obtaining a NISS is a crucial step in living your life in this beautiful country. By understanding its importance and following the simple steps to obtain one, you want to make an easier and more secure experience as you start on your Portuguese journey.
