PPS in Ireland: a complete guide for Brazilians in 2025
If you are planning study and work in Ireland, you will certainly need the PPS (Personal Public Service Number). This document is essential for those who wish to live legally in the country, even if for a specified period. The PPS is comparable to our Brazilian Social Security number and will be your passport to work, access public services and start your life in Ireland with peace of mind.
What is PPS in Ireland and why do you need it?
O PPS in Ireland (Personal Public Service Number) is a unique identification number issued by the Irish government. It acts as an official record that allows the government to identify you for tax purposes, social benefits, public health, and other essential services. Every foreigner who intends to work legally in the country must request this document.
When participating in a program for Study and Work in Ireland, the PPS will be one of the first documents you will need to provide upon your arrival. Without it, you will not be able to receive your salary on a regular basis, you will have difficulties opening a bank account, and you will not be able to access various essential public services, such as the Irish health system.
Who can apply for PPS in Ireland?
To apply for PPS in Ireland, you must have a legitimate reason justifying the need for the document. The Irish government is quite specific about the conditions for issuing the PPS, not granting the number to those who are still just looking for employment.
The main groups that can apply for PPS include:
- Contract workers: people who already have a confirmed job offer
- Work and study program students: participants in programs that combine study and legal work
- Spouses or dependents of Irish residents who have an appropriate visa
- People who need to access social benefits From the Irish government
- Students who need to work during the study period Permitted by visa
It should be noted that tourists or people with a short-term visa to study without a work permit are generally not eligible to apply for PPS in Ireland.
Documents required to apply for PPS in Ireland
Preparing the correct documentation is critical to the success of your PPS application in Ireland. The Irish government requires specific proof that validates your identity and demonstrates the actual need for the document. Make sure to gather all the documents before starting the process to avoid unnecessary delays.
The essential documents to apply for PPS include your valid passport as a primary identification document, a proof of address in Ireland (such as utility bills, rental agreement, or a statement from the landlord/host stating that you reside at that address) and, most importantly, a letter from the employer (Employer Letter of Recommendation or Job Offer). The latter must be on company letterhead, contain complete information about the employer (including tax registration number), your function, date of commencement of work, and be duly signed.
How to apply for PPS in Ireland: step by step
The PPS application process has become completely online, which makes it much easier for foreigners arriving in the country. To ensure that your request is processed smoothly, please follow these steps carefully:
- Access the official website: Enter the portal MyWelfare.ie, the government website for requesting the PPS
- Create an account: You will need to create a profile in the system with your personal data
- Select the option “Apply for a Personal Public Service Number” in the menu
- Complete the online form with your complete personal data
- Attach the necessary documents: Upload scanned versions of all required documents
- Confirm your information and submit the request
- Wait for processing: The current time is between 6 and 15 weeks for full issuance
It is important to know that, due to high demand, PPS processing time has been longer in recent months. Therefore, we recommend that you start this process as soon as possible after your arrival in Ireland.
How long does it take to receive PPS and what to do while waiting
Currently, the PPS issuance process in Ireland has taken between 6 and 15 weeks to complete, from the time of the online application to the receipt of the physical card at your address. This deadline may vary according to demand and periods of high season for immigration to the country.
While waiting for your PPS, you can start working using a temporary number provided by your employer for payroll purposes. This interim arrangement allows you to receive your salary, but with a higher emergency tax rate. After receiving your final PPS, any overpaid tax during this period may be refunded through the Irish tax system.
How to use your PPS after you receive it
Once you receive your PPS in Ireland, you'll need to activate it and use it for a variety of essential services. This number will become your main identification in the country and will be necessary for various everyday situations.
The first step after receiving your PPS is to register it with the Irish Revenue for income tax purposes. This can be done online through the MyAccount portal on the Revenue website. When you register, you will receive your Tax Number and you can request tax credits that will reduce the amount of tax withheld at source.
In addition, your PPS will be used to:
- Open bank account: most Irish banks require PPS to open accounts
- Rental contracts: many landlords request the PPS to formalize contracts
- Health insurance: to access the Irish Public Health System (HSE)
- Educational Services: enroll in courses subsidized by the government
- Social benefits: if you are entitled to any type of government aid
Common questions about PPS in Ireland
Many Brazilians who plan Learn a language abroad If you choose Ireland as your destination, you have specific questions about the PPS. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions:
Can I apply for PPS before arriving in Ireland? No, PPS can only be requested when you are already in Ireland and have a local address and a confirmed job offer or specific document requirement.
Is the PPS valid or does it need to be renewed? The PPS is a unique, lifetime number. Once issued, it will be yours forever, even if you leave Ireland and return years later.
Is it possible to work without PPS? Technically, you can start working while waiting for your PPS, but you'll be taxed at a higher emergency rate. Your employer will need to rectify your situation as soon as you receive the definitive number.
What happens if I lose my PPS card? The physical card is less important than the number itself. If you lose your card, you can request a duplicate, but as long as you know the number, you can use it normally.
Do I need PPS to study in Ireland? To just study, it's not mandatory. However, if you are going to study and work, you will need the PPS to receive your salary legally.
Be Easy
A Be Easy offers full support for Brazilians who wish to study and work in Ireland, including guidance for obtaining the PPS. Our specialized consultants accompany each stage of the process, from preparation in Brazil to adaptation in Ireland. With our unique program, you'll have access to quality courses, guaranteed accommodation, and assistance with documentation. Fulfill your dream of an international experience with safety and peace of mind. Contact us today for a personalized consultation!
