A NISS (Social Security Identification Number) is crucial for accessing social security benefits and fulfilling associated rights and obligations in Portugal. This identification number applies to both Portuguese nationals and foreign residents who:
- Contribute to the social security system
- Are beneficiaries of the social security system
- Engage in employment or economic activities in the country
Requesting Your NISS Online
While requesting your NISS online is straightforward, please note that the physical document must be collected in person from a social security service office. We offer two options:
- Self-pickup at no additional cost
- Collection service for an additional fee
1. Requirements
To process your NISS request, you’ll need to provide:
Personal Information:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Current address
- Parents’ full names
- Additional basic personal details
Identification Document (one of the following):
- Passport copy
- Portuguese residence permit
- Work visa
- EU citizen’s ID card
2. Process Overview
- Initial Order
- Place your order through our service
- Receive an email containing:
- Required form for completion
- Instructions for ID document upload
- NISS Processing
- We submit your NISS request
- Social Security Services will email you upon issuance
- Collection OptionsSelf-Pickup:
- Service ends after NISS issuance
- Follow email instructions for collection
- Forward the Social Security email to us
- We collect your NISS
- Receive a scanned copy via email
- Physical document sent to your preferred address
3. Processing Timeline
The NISS issuance process varies in duration:
- Minimum: A few days
- Average: 2 weeks
- Maximum: 4+ weeks
Important Note: Processing times depend entirely on the Social Security office. Some cases have experienced delays exceeding one month. We recommend planning for the longest possible timeline of four weeks or more to avoid any complications with your schedule or requirements.
