Essential Documents for Living in Portugal: A Complete Guide for Immigrants
- Marcella Leandro Castellar Pinheiro
- Mar 7
- 3 min read
If you are planning to live in Portugal, this updated guide with legal information on the essential documents you need will help you avoid bureaucratic issues. Learn how to obtain your NIF, NISS, SNS user number, and residence permit quickly and efficiently.
1. NIF (Tax Identification Number)
The NIF in Portugal is essential for any resident and is equivalent to the CPF in Brazil. It is mandatory for opening a bank account, renting a property, contracting services, and even working legally in the country.
How to obtain the NIF?
Citizens of the European Union (EU): Present a passport or citizen card at the Tax Authority (Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira).
Citizens from other countries: A tax representative residing in Portugal is required, or it can be obtained through a specialized lawyer.
🔹 Tip: You can obtain the NIF online even while still in Brazil or your country of origin through specialized services.
2. NISS (Social Security Identification Number)
The NISS in Portugal is mandatory for those who wish to work formally in the country, allowing contributions to Social Security and access to benefits such as retirement and unemployment insurance.
How to obtain the NISS?
For employees: The employer submits the request directly.
For self-employed workers: Visit the Social Security office with your NIF and proof of business registration with the Tax Authority.
3. SNS User Number (National Health Service)
The SNS user number grants access to Portugal's public healthcare system, equivalent to the SUS in Brazil. With it, residents can book medical appointments, tests, and receive medical assistance at reduced costs or for free.
How to obtain the SNS user number?
EU citizens: Present a passport or citizen card.
Citizens from other countries: Provide a residence permit and NIF at a health center.
4. Residence Card (For Non-EU Citizens)
If you are not a citizen of the European Union and plan to live in Portugal for more than 90 days, you must obtain a residence permit from AIMA (Agency for Immigration and Administrative Mobility).
Attention: Entering Portugal as a tourist and trying to legalize your status is no longer a viable option!
Due to recent changes in Portuguese immigration policies and legislation, the safest and legally correct way to reside in Portugal is to enter the country with the appropriate visa in your passport. This prevents legal uncertainties and future problems with status regularization while ensuring emotional stability and security throughout the immigration process.
How to apply for a residence permit?
Enter Portugal with the appropriate visa (D1, D2, D7, etc.).
Schedule an appointment with AIMA.
Provide the following documents:
Valid passport;
Proof of accommodation;
Proof of financial means;
Health insurance.
5. EU Citizen Registration Certificate
European citizens who wish to reside in Portugal for more than 90 days must register at the Junta de Freguesia (Parish Council) in their area of residence and obtain the EU Citizen Registration Certificate, which is valid for five years.
The Registration Certificate, which formalizes the right of residence in Portugal, must be requested from the Junta de Freguesia in the area of residence if the EU national plans to stay in the country for more than three months and up to five years.
Required documents:
Passport or EU Citizen Card;
Proof of accommodation;
Proof of financial means (employment contract, bank statement, etc.).
The Permanent Residence Card, which formalizes the right to permanent residence in Portugal, can only be requested by EU nationals and their family members after legally residing in the country for five years.
The right to enter, stay, and reside in Portugal applies to nationals of EU countries, the European Economic Area (EEA), Andorra, and Switzerland, as well as their family members.
For stays exceeding five years, the application must be submitted at AIMA offices, with a prior appointment.
Conclusion: How to Legalize Your Status in Portugal?
Obtaining these documents is fundamental to ensuring a legal and smooth stay in Portugal. To avoid complications and bureaucratic hurdles, it is advisable to seek assistance from a specialized immigration lawyer.
📌 Need help obtaining your documents? Contact an immigration specialist for a safe and hassle-free process!
🔹 The information provided is general in nature and does not replace the advice of a lawyer. Consult a lawyer and take a preventive approach in legal matters.
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