Obtain your Social Security Number easily
The NUSS is your key to accessing the social protection system in Spain. Whether you are a student, worker, or foreigner, we explain how to apply step-by-step in less than 5 minutes.
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What is the Social Security Number (NUSS)?
The Social Security Number (NUSS) is a unique, personal, and non-transferable identifier assigned by the General Treasury of the Social Security (TGSS) to each citizen. This number is mandatory for any person who wishes to perform work activities, receive benefits, or access services from the social protection system in Spain.
There is often terminology confusion: the NUSS becomes the Affiliation Number (NAF) at the precise moment a person starts, for the first time, a work activity that involves their inclusion in any Social Security Scheme. For practical purposes, the number is the same and will accompany you throughout your life.
Key Difference: NUSS vs Health Card
It is a common mistake to confuse the NUSS with the health card number. The NUSS is national and managed by the Social Security, while the health card is issued by autonomous communities for access to public health, although both systems are interconnected.
Why do you need your NUSS?
More than just a number, it is your administrative and professional identity.
Healthcare
It is a prerequisite for requesting an individual health card at your corresponding health center.
Students and Internships
Since 2024, all interns (paid or unpaid) must have a NUSS to contribute to the system.
Benefits and Grants
Without this number, the State cannot process your unemployment benefit, retirement pensions, sick leave, or the Minimum Vital Income.
- Access to Work History
- Contribution base calculation
Self-Employed
If you are going to start a business, obtaining the NUSS is step zero before self-employed registration.
Mandatory by law
NUSS Assistant
Answer 3 quick questions and we will tell you exactly which documents you need and where to go.
1. What is your nationality/status?
2. Why do you need the number?
3. Do you have electronic identification?
Your Personalized Roadmap
Necessary Documentation
1 Official Identification
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Spanish:Original valid DNI. If minor without DNI, Family Book.
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Foreigners:NIE (TIE) or valid Passport. If you are from the EU, Union Citizen Registration Certificate.
2 Forms and Others
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Model TA.1:Properly completed Affiliation/Social Security Number Application.
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Digital:Email, mobile phone number and, for procedures without a certificate, a photograph of yourself holding your DNI/NIE (validation selfie).
How to Request it: Step by Step
Online Method (Recommended)
The Import@ss portal is the General Treasury's platform. If you have a Digital Certificate or Cl@ve, the process is instantaneous.
- Access the Social Security Electronic Office.
- Select "Citizens" and then "Affiliation, Registration and Modifications".
- Click on "Request Social Security Number".
- Identify yourself and fill in the digital Model TA.1 form data.
- Download your resolution with the assigned number immediately.
Online without Digital Certificate
If you do not have electronic identification methods, you can use the "Send an application" form on Import@ss.
- You must attach a photo of your DNI/NIE on both sides.
- It is mandatory to upload a "selfie" with your identity document near your face to validate that it is you.
- An official will review the request and you will receive the number by email in a few days.
In-Person Procedure
Although the administration prioritizes digital, you can go to an Administration of the General Treasury of the Social Security (TGSS).
Note: It is essential to request a prior appointment to be seen in person.
Bring the printed Model TA.1 and your original identification. You will receive a receipt with your NUSS immediately.
Don't confuse them: Glossary of Acronyms
| Acronym | Full Name | Main Function |
|---|---|---|
| NUSS | Social Security Number | Administrative identification before the protection system. |
| NAF | Affiliation Number | It is the same NUSS, but activated when starting work. |
| NIE | Foreigner Identity Number | ID for foreigners (see more). It does not grant healthcare rights on its own. |
| Sanitary NUSS | SNS Code | The number that appears on your Autonomous Health Card. |
Important Update: Intern Students
As of January 2024, the regulation has come into force that obliges to include in the Social Security system all students who perform training internships or external academic internships included in training programs.
Who requests it?
Generally the University or the Vocational Training Center, but the student must provide their data or already have a generated NUSS.
What is it for?
It allows internship time to count as contributed time for future retirement.
Do you need professional help with your procedures?
If you prefer an expert to manage your NUSS application, Social Security registration, or any immigration procedure, we are here to help.