Why is it important for foreign citizens to have access to identification numbers in Portugal?
Access to identification numbers is crucial for foreign citizens in Portugal for a multitude of reasons. Having a Tax Identification Number (NIF), Social Security Number, and Health User Number ensures foreigners can fully integrate into the community and access vital services without barriers. By establishing these identifiers, expats are empowered to live, work, and participate fully in Portuguese society.
The government’s initiative to centralise these services at Espaços Cidadão by late 2024 aims to address the persistent challenges faced by many foreign residents. It alleviates pressure on government systems while providing operational efficiency and support.
The ability to secure a NIF is particularly important as it enables individuals to open bank accounts, enter into rental agreements, and fulfil tax obligations. Without it, essential aspects of life in Portugal become significantly more challenging. Similarly, a Social Security number allows access to social services, which is vital for financial security and well-being.
Healthcare access is also fundamental, and having a Health User Number ensures foreigners can receive necessary medical attention as required. This representation of inclusivity highlights the Portuguese government's commitment to supporting its diverse population.
The development of this service reflects feedback from the growing foreign community, ensuring their needs and concerns are met. Knowing that there is a dedicated space to obtain these crucial numbers enhances the ability for foreign citizens to plan their lives in Portugal.
As we approach the launch of this initiative, it’s imperative for foreign citizens to stay informed about the roles these identification numbers play in their daily lives. Engage with community resources and prepare for the rollout in late 2024 to secure your identification numbers smoothly.
Take this opportunity to connect with fellow expatriates and learn how these changes will benefit your experience living in Portugal.
Margarida Balseiro Lopes was speaking at the end of the meeting of the first Council of Ministers dedicated to Digital Transition and Modernization, which took place today at the Faculty of Science and Technology of Universidade Nova (Nova FCT), in Almada.
Among the 15 measures, the minister highlighted the case of identification numbers for foreign citizens.
"We know that the Finance, Social Security and Citizen's Offices have been faced with long queues" and "we have thousands of foreign citizens living in Portugal who cannot access something as basic as a Tax Identification Number [NIF], the Social Security Number or the Health User Number", continued the government official.
And, therefore, "what we are going to do now in 2024 - this is a measure for this year, in the last quarter of 2024 - in a project that is being implemented by AMA [Agency for Administrative Modernization] and AIMA [Agency for Migration and Asylum Integration] is in one place for citizens to have access to the three identification numbers", explained Margarida Balseiro Lopes.
"This is particularly important because we will take pressure off" the people who work in these entities, she said.
"We are going to make this service available in Espaços Cidadão", explained the government official.
