How to Get Your NISS in Portugal (Social Security Identification Number)

If you're planning to work, freelance, or start a business in Portugal, one of your first steps is getting a NISS (Número de Identificação de Segurança Social) — your Portuguese Social Security Number.

This number may be small, but it holds big importance. It allows you to:

• Contribute to the Portuguese social security system

• Access public benefits like health and unemployment

• Work legally in the country

Before you apply for your NISS, however, there’s one essential thing you must have first: your NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) — your Portuguese tax number. Learn how to get your NIF here.

In this guide, I'll show you exactly how to get your NISS in Portugal in 2025, and share my personal experience applying for one without a job.

What Is a NISS?

The NISS is your unique identification number in the Portuguese Social Security system. It's necessary for:

• Signing an employment contract

• Paying taxes as a freelancer (alongside your NIF)

• Accessing healthcare and unemployment benefits

Who Needs a NISS?

You’ll need a NISS if you:

• Are starting a job in Portugal

• Are registering as a freelancer or sole trader

• Want access to public services like healthcare or unemployment benefits

First, Get Your NIF

Before applying for your NISS, you must already have your NIF (Portuguese tax number). You can obtain your NIF at your local Finanças (tax office) with the following documents:

• Passport or EU ID

• Proof of address in Portugal

• For non-EU citizens: a tax representative (if you don’t have residency in Portugal)

Where to Apply for Your NISS

To get your NISS, you must visit a Segurança Social (Social Security) office in your area.

My Personal Experience Getting a NISS (Without a Job)

When I applied for my NISS, I didn’t have a job lined up. I went to the Segurança Social office expecting to apply in person.

However, they directed me to fill out a request form online through their official website. A few days later, I received an email asking me to return to the office to collect my NISS document. The whole process was simple, and I didn’t need an employment contract to get it.

So yes — you can get your NISS even without a job, as long as you have your NIF and ID documents.

What You’ll Need to Apply

• NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) – REQUIRED

• Passport or EU ID

• Proof of address in Portugal

• Optional: Proof of activity (if registering as a freelancer)

Can You Apply Online?

Some Segurança Social offices now require you to submit the form online first. Afterward, you’ll be contacted to pick up your NISS in person.

Pro Tip: Call your local branch ahead of time to confirm this process — it may save you time.

How Long Does It Take?

• Usually a few business days

• In some cases, you may receive it on the same day if applying in person with all the necessary documents

Pro Tips for Getting Your NISS

• Get your NIF first — it’s essential for the process

• Bring extra copies of all required documents

• If you're unsure, visit the office and ask — they may guide you to submit the request online, just like they did with me

• Don’t worry if you’re unemployed — you can still apply for a NISS

Final Thoughts

Getting your NISS in Portugal is a crucial step if you’re planning to work, freelance, or access public benefits. With your NIF in hand and some patience, the process is straightforward — even if you don’t have a job yet. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to legally living and working in Portugal.