Article by  Raquel Babo - Lawyer at International Atlantic Services

Portugal has become one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for people seeking a fresh start, whether for work, study, retirement, or simply a better quality of life. But as with any move abroad, navigating the bureaucracy can feel overwhelming, especially when you're faced with a sea of unfamiliar abbreviations. If you’re planning to move to Portugal or have recently arrived, understanding the most common acronyms used in daily life and official procedures can make your transition significantly smoother.

We’ve compiled this quick reference list to help you feel more confident as you settle in.

• SEF – Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras

This was the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service, responsible for residence permits, visas, and border control. However, in 2023, its responsibilities transitioned to other entities. Most immigration-related tasks now fall under AIMA.

• AIMA – Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo

The new agency that replaced SEF for most administrative immigration related matters.

• SNS – Serviço Nacional de Saúde

Portugal’s public health system. Once you register with your local health center (Centro de Saúde), you’ll be issued a NNU - Número Nacional de Utente, which gives you access to medical care under the SNS. You can check our previous article about the health system in Portugal: The Portuguese Healthcare System: Public vs. Private, SNS Access, and New Rules for Migrants

• IEFP – Instituto do Emprego e Formação Profissional

The national employment and training institute. This is the place to go if you’re looking for a job, are interested in training programs, or want to register as unemployed.

• IMT – Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes

If you plan to drive in Portugal, you may need to exchange your foreign driver’s license at IMT or apply for a Portuguese one. They handle all matters related to driving licenses and vehicle registration. You can check our previous article about the Recognition of the immigrant´s driver’s license from certain countries: Recognition of the immigrant´s driver’s license from countries in the OECD and CPLP

• AT – Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira

Portugal’s tax authority. All tax matters, personal or business, are dealt with through AT, including annual tax declarations, VAT, and other tax obligations.

• NIF – Número de Identificação Fiscal

This is your tax identification number, essential for almost everything in Portugal, from opening a bank account and signing a lease to getting a phone plan.

• NISS – Número de Identificação da Segurança Social

Your Social Security number. If you’re employed or self-employed, contributions will be tied to this number. It’s necessary for accessing social benefits, including pensions and parental leave.

Moving to a new country involves a steep learning curve, and Portugal is no exception. While it might feel intimidating to keep track of all the bureaucracy and unfamiliar terms, remember that you're not alone. Working with an experienced immigration lawyer can help you navigate these systems with greater ease.

For any questions, please contact your lawyer or our support team directly.