Subsídio de Doença (Sickness Benefit)
Apply for sickness benefit when you are temporarily unable to work due to illness. Compensation paid by Social Security during sick leave.
What you need before you start
- NISS (Social Security Identification Number)
- Temporary Incapacity Certificate (CIT — Certificado de Incapacidade Temporária) — issued by the doctor
- Minimum 6 months of Social Security contributions
- IBAN for payment
Step by step
See your doctor — they will issue the CIT (sick leave certificate) electronically
The CIT is sent automatically to Social Security (no need to deliver a paper copy)
Your employer is notified automatically
Go to Segurança Social Direta to check the sick leave status
Payment starts from the 4th day of incapacity (first 3 days without payment)
The amount is 55% to 75% of the reference salary, depending on the duration
Track payments under 'Pagamentos' (Payments) in Segurança Social Direta
If sick leave is extended, the doctor issues a new CIT before the previous one expires
Tip: If in doubt, always contact the official service directly.
Ready to get started?
Go to Subsídio de Doença (Sickness Benefit)