Just arrived in Portugal: what to sort out, and in what order

Check the numbers you already have

Why: With the temporary protection certificate, your NIF, NISS and SNS number are assigned automatically.
Where: They are shown on your certificate. If one is missing, ask AIMA or a CLAIM centre.
Tip: Temporary protection has been extended until 4 March 2027. Check the AIMA website for any further extension.

NIF: your tax number

Why: You need it for almost everything: work contract, renting, bank, phone.
Where: At a Tax Office (Serviço de Finanças) or Loja do Cidadão, by appointment (217 206 707, weekdays 9:00–19:00), or online through the Portal das Finanças e-balcão via a representative.
Bring: Passport or other ID and proof of address.
Tip: It is free. Once you live here, update your address at the Tax Office to become a tax resident.

Proof of address (atestado de residência)

Why: Many services ask for proof of where you live.
Where: Your rental contract and rent receipts work. If you have neither, your local Junta de Freguesia issues a certificate of residence.
Bring: ID and whatever proves your address. Some Juntas ask for witnesses registered to vote in the parish.
Tip: Always ask for rent receipts: you need them for your tax return and to prove where you live.

NISS: your Social Security number

Why: Without it you cannot work on a contract or get pension, sick pay or unemployment benefit.
Where: Online on the Social Security portal (menus «Ajuda» or «Trabalho»), with biometric checks. Your employer can also request it for you.
Tip: Once you start working, check every month on Segurança Social Direta that your contributions show up.

Bank account

Why: To receive your salary and pay rent.
Bring: Passport, NIF, proof of address and, if you have them, your work contract or residence permit.
Tip: Every bank must offer a low-cost «conta de serviços mínimos bancários» (basic bank account). Ask for it.

SNS number (número de utente)

Why: To see a doctor at your health centre and, when places are available, get a family doctor.
Where: At the health centre (centro de saúde) for your area.
Bring: ID, NIF and proof of address.
Tip: For health questions call SNS 24 first: 808 24 24 24. Emergencies: 112.

Residence permit (AIMA)

Why: It is the document that lets you live legally in Portugal after your visa.
Where: Follow the instructions for your visa type on the AIMA website. Keep copies of everything you submit.
Tip: Note the expiry date and renew in good time. Use official channels only: nobody can sell appointments.

Work contract and payslip

Why: They protect you if there are problems with pay or working hours.
Where: Insist on a written contract and a payslip (recibo de vencimento) every month.
Tip: Use our payslip checker to see if the numbers add up.; Is my Portuguese payslip right? →

School for your children

Why: Children have the right to attend state school.
Where: At your local school or school group, or on the Portal das Matrículas.
Tip: Bring the child's ID, proof of address and vaccination record if you have it.

Free help near you (CLAIM)

Why: Local Migrant Integration Support Centres (CLAIM) help for free with documents, work, housing and health.
Where: There are CLAIM centres in many towns. Find the nearest on the AIMA website or at your Câmara Municipal.

Official sources