You may have found a potential employer or are ready to sign a contract, but you realize you do not yet have a Social Security Identification Number (NISS). You are likely worried that a company will rescind their offer if you cannot provide this number immediately. You might also fear that working without it could jeopardize your future residency status. This is a common point of stress for new arrivals because the sequence of hiring and documentation often feels like a contradiction.

Can I do job If I don’t have NISS in Portugal?

To the question, “Can I do job If I don’t have NISS in Portugal?”, the answer is: You can sign an employment contract, but you cannot legally begin work or receive a salary until the NISS registration process starts.

This does not mean you will lose the job. It means your employer must register you in the system before your official start date. In Portugal, the employer usually carries the responsibility of requesting the NISS for a new employee who does not have one. You do not need to have the number already in your pocket to apply for a position.

How to Obtain a NISS for Different Work Scenarios

The process depends entirely on your specific employment status. We have outlined the current procedures to help you navigate the Social Security system (Segurança Social).

Scenario 1: You Have a Job Offer for a Standard Contract

If a company hires you as a salaried employee (dependent worker), they must handle the initial application.

• The Process: You provide your passport and NIF (Tax Number) to the employer. The employer then submits an online request through the Segurança Social Direta portal.
• The Result: The system generates your NISS, and the employer links it to your contract. You do not need to visit a Social Security office in person for this.

Scenario 2: You Are Self-Employed (Freelancer/Recibos Verdes)

If you intend to work for yourself or provide services to multiple clients, you must request the NISS yourself.

• The Process: You must first “Open Activity” at the Finanças Portal. Once you have your declaration of activity, you visit a Social Security office or use the NISS na Hora service online.
• The Requirement: You will need your passport, NIF, and proof of address. If you are a non-EU citizen, you typically need a representative or a valid visa to complete this independently.

Scenario 3: You Are a Student with a Residence Permit

Firstly, note that students are legally allowed to work in Portugal. Here’s the mentioned process below:

• The Process: Follow the same steps as Scenario 1. Your employer submits your details to the Social Security office.
• The Requirement: You must ensure your residence permit allows for professional activity. Most student permits issued for higher education allow work without further authorization.

What Should You Do If You Want NISS?

If an employer asks for your NISS and you do not have it, do not panic. Follow these specific steps:

1. Inform the employer: Tell them you do not have a NISS yet and ask them to initiate the “NISS para Estrangeiros” (NISS for Foreigners) request.
2. Gather your documents: Ensure your NIF is active and your passport has at least six months of validity.
3. Monitor the request: Once the employer submits the request, the Social Security office usually issues the number within 5 to 15 business days.

Conclusion

In result, you must differentiate between the legal right to work and the administrative step of social security registration. Working without a registered Social Security number results in a lack of labor protections and interrupts the contribution history required for your residency status.

If you are still wondering, “Can I do job If I don’t have NISS in Portugal?”, remember that the system allows for the creation of this number through your first employment contract. Your priority is to ensure your employer initiates the request immediately upon hiring. By following the official Segurança Social protocols, you protect your legal standing in the country.

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