How to Get a PPS Number in Ireland

PPSDocumentationEssential Services

Your PPS (Personal Public Service) number is one of the most important pieces of documentation you’ll need in Ireland. This guide explains what it is, why you need it, and how to get one.

What is a PPS number?

A PPS number is a unique reference number that helps you access social welfare benefits, public services, and information in Ireland. It’s similar to:

  • National Insurance number (UK)
  • Social Security Number (USA)
  • Social Insurance Number (Canada)

Your PPS number is in the format: 1234567A or 1234567AB

Why do you need a PPS number?

You’ll need a PPS number to:

  • Work in Ireland (employers require it for tax purposes)
  • Pay taxes
  • Claim social welfare benefits
  • Access public healthcare services
  • Apply for a driving licence
  • Register with Revenue (tax office)
  • Open some bank accounts
  • Apply for third-level education grants
  • Register for unemployment benefits

Important: You cannot work legally in Ireland without a PPS number. Your employer must have your PPS number to process your wages correctly.

Your PPS number is essential for everything from opening a bank account to registering for healthcare. If you’re moving from abroad, see our guides for Americans, British citizens, or EU nationals for complete relocation advice.

Who is eligible?

Anyone who is legally resident in Ireland and needs to access public services can apply for a PPS number.

This includes:

  • Irish citizens
  • EU/EEA citizens
  • UK citizens
  • Non-EU citizens with work permits or visas
  • Students (in certain circumstances)
  • Dependent family members

If you’re a non-EU citizen, you’ll need a work permit before you can apply for a PPS number. Your employment permit approval serves as proof you need a PPS number.

What documents do you need?

You’ll need to bring original documents. Photocopies are not accepted.

Proof of identity

One of the following:

  • Passport (most common)
  • National identity card (for EU/EEA citizens)
  • Irish birth certificate with photographic ID

Proof of address in Ireland

One of the following (dated within the last 3 months):

  • Utility bill (electricity, gas, phone, waste)
  • Bank statement
  • Letter from your landlord on headed paper
  • Tenancy agreement
  • Correspondence from Revenue or government department

Note: If you’re staying with friends or family temporarily, ask them to write a letter confirming your address.

Evidence of why you need the PPS number

One of the following:

  • Job offer letter or contract of employment
  • Letter from an educational institution
  • Document from a government department
  • Evidence of self-employment

How to apply

Step 1: Determine where to apply

PPS numbers are issued by the Department of Social Protection. You can apply at:

  • Your local Intreo Centre
  • Social Welfare Office
  • Designated Post Office (if available in your area)

Find your nearest office: www.gov.ie

Step 2: Book an appointment

You must book an appointment in advance. Walk-ins are not typically accepted.

To book:

  • Call the MyWelfare.ie booking line: 0818 927 999 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm)
  • Book online at MyWelfare.ie (if available in your area)

Have your mobile number ready as you’ll receive appointment confirmation by text.

Step 3: Attend your appointment

Arrive on time with all required original documents.

At the appointment, you’ll:

  1. Present your documents
  2. Fill out an application form
  3. Provide your contact details
  4. Answer questions about why you need the number

The process typically takes 15-30 minutes.

Step 4: Receive your PPS number

You’ll receive your PPS number by post within 2-3 weeks.

If you need it urgently for work:

  • Tell the officer at your appointment
  • They may be able to give you a letter with your PPS number immediately
  • The official card will still arrive by post

Common issues and solutions

”I don’t have proof of address yet”

If you’ve just arrived and are staying in temporary accommodation:

  • Ask for a letter from the person you’re staying with
  • Some hostels or temporary accommodations can provide letters
  • Hotel booking confirmations may be accepted in some cases

”I need it urgently for work”

Tell the officer at your appointment that you need the number urgently:

  • They can provide a letter with your PPS number immediately
  • Give this to your employer
  • Your official card will arrive by post later

”I can’t get an appointment”

Appointment availability can be limited:

  • Try different times of day when calling
  • Try neighbouring offices if yours is busy
  • Book as early as possible when you arrive in Ireland

”My employer says they need it before I start”

This is common. Options:

  • Book your appointment before you move to Ireland (if possible)
  • Ask your employer if you can start work while waiting (many will allow this)
  • Request an immediate letter at your appointment

”I’ve lost my PPS number”

If you’ve been assigned a PPS number but lost the documentation:

  • Contact your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Office
  • You may find it on old payslips, P60, P45, or tax documents
  • You can request a replacement PPS number card

Tips for a smooth application

  1. Book early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Book your appointment as soon as you know you’ll need a PPS number.

  2. Bring original documents: Photocopies won’t be accepted. Bring the physical originals.

  3. Bring multiple proofs: If you have more than one acceptable document, bring them all in case one isn’t accepted.

  4. Check document dates: Proof of address must be recent (within 3 months).

  5. Arrive early: Give yourself time to find the office and go through security if applicable.

  6. Bring your mobile phone: You’ll need to provide a contact number.

  7. Keep your PPS number safe: You’ll use it for the rest of your time in Ireland, so store it securely.

  8. Never share your PPS number publicly: It’s personal information. Only provide it to employers, government departments, and official entities.

After you get your PPS number

Once you have your PPS number:

  1. Give it to your employer so they can process your wages correctly
  2. Register with Revenue (the tax office) at revenue.ie
  3. Keep your PPS number secure - you’ll use it throughout your life in Ireland
  4. Remember it or store it safely - it’s needed for many services

Special circumstances

Children

Children born in Ireland are automatically assigned a PPS number. Parents receive it by post.

Students

Full-time students may need a PPS number for:

  • Part-time work (if legally allowed under visa conditions)
  • Grant applications (SUSI)
  • Some college registrations

Self-employed

If you’re self-employed, you still need a PPS number. Bring evidence of self-employment such as:

  • Business registration documents
  • Proof of business address
  • Letter from accountant

Refugees and asylum seekers

Different processes apply. Contact the Irish Refugee Council or your case worker for specific guidance.

Useful contacts

  • MyWelfare.ie appointments: 0818 927 999
  • Citizens Information: 0818 07 4000
  • Department of Social Protection: www.gov.ie/dsp

Summary

Getting your PPS number is an essential early step when moving to Ireland. The process is straightforward if you have the right documents and book an appointment in advance. Allow 2-3 weeks for the full process, though you may receive your number sooner if you explain it’s needed urgently for work.

Remember: You cannot legally work in Ireland without a PPS number, so make this a priority when you arrive.