Your Personal Public Service (PPS) number is a unique reference number that helps to you to gain access to social welfare benefits, public services, and information in Ireland. State Agencies use PPS Numbers to identify individuals. The PPS number is the key to your employment. You have to live in Ireland already to be eliglible for a PPS number you can not start the procedure from home.

How to get one?

You can apply for a PPS in your local Social Welfare Office. If you are trying to apply in a Social Welfare Office, which is not dealing with applicants, living in the area where you are you will be redirected to the correct one. To find out about your local social welfare office please visit this link: Service finder

What documents do I need?

In order to receive a number, you will need to fill out an application form and provide proof of your identity.

You will need to produce the following documents:

    - Your passport or national identity card (EU nationals)

Or

    - Your Immigration Card

And

    - Evidence of your address, such as a household bill (ESB, telephone, gas, rental contract, etc.) in your name. If you share an apartment and the rental contract is not in your name you will need to get a paper signed by the person who rents the apartment stating that you are living in that address. You should also bring the rental contract with you.

How long does it take to get one?

The PPS number is usually posted in a week time. If it is urgent you can walk in your local social welfare office the day after you application was pocessed and they should be able to give it to you already.