Administrative Services

What is the National Health Service?

Established in 1979, the National Health Service aims to ensure the right to health protection, irrespective of economic and social conditions. Its focus is on enhancing the quality of life and reducing inequalities. Official institutions and services, funded by the population's taxes, fall under the management of the Ministry of Health. This structure comprises health centres, hospitals, and local health units.

What is the Health User Number (NUS)?

It is a document that allows the user to be identified in SNS institutions and services. All foreigners with residence permits can obtain the number at the nearest health centre. The user number must be presented whenever the user needs care at any health unit.

What is the Tax and Customs Authority?

The mission of the Tax and Customs Authority is to administer taxes, customs duties, and other assigned levies. Additionally, it exercises control over the external border of the European Union and the national customs territory for fiscal, economic, and societal protection purposes. This is done as per the policies defined by the Government and European Union Law.

What is the Tax Identification Number (NIF)?

Any individual, whether national or foreign, resident or non-resident in Portugal, who needs to fulfil tax obligations (such as paying taxes) or wishes to assert rights with the Portuguese tax administration can request a Tax Identification Number. For foreigners from the EU or third countries, obtaining an NIF involves presenting the required documents: 

• In Tax and Customs Authority Services, through prior scheduling for in-person assistance.

• At the e-counter of the Tax and Customs Authority website, through the tax representative of the person requesting the NIF if they reside in a third country or the following countries of the European Economic Area: Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.

What is the Social Security Institute?

Social Security is a system designed to guarantee fundamental rights and equal opportunities for all Portuguese and foreign citizens engaged in professional activities or residing in the territory. Its goal is to promote well-being and social cohesion.

How to request the Social Security Identification Number (NISS)?

Foreigners or nationals not required to have a Citizen Card can request the Social Security Identification Number online by completing the available form.

Authority for Working Conditions (ACT)
Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT)
Institute of Registries and Notaries (IRN)
Institute of Employment and Professional Training (IEFP)