Residents of Luxembourg or Switzerland receiving pensions from Social Security must complete a life certificate this month to ensure their pensions continue to be deposited, as reminded by the Social Security Institute (ISS) on Monday.
“By November 30, 2025, pensioners registered in Luxembourg and Switzerland, aged 66 years and 7 months or older, must complete a life certificate,” stated a publication shared by the public organization on the social network Instagram.
What happens if the life certificate is not completed?
Social Security explains that “if not done within this timeframe, pension payments will be suspended starting January 2026, and will only resume after a valid life certificate is provided”.
It is also important to note that the life certificate can be completed in three ways: digitally, by document, or in person.
“Social Security recommends using the digital life certificate as it is faster, safer, and avoids unnecessary travel,” the public organization’s publication stated.
Additionally, “Social Security has Attachés in Luxembourg and Switzerland who provide specialized in-person assistance and can help with the life certificate process. Find out how to schedule a service: https://www.seg-social.pt/ptss/pssd/menu/ajuda/contactos-canais-atendimento/adidos-seguranca-social”.
How to complete the life certificate?
According to the ISS, the digital life certificate can be done on the Social Security Portal, under the menu I’m retiring or retired > Life certificate > What can I do online? > Consult and register life certificate.
The life certificate is an “annual procedure for pensioners living abroad to ensure the continuity of pension rights. In 2025, the process began in Luxembourg and Switzerland and will gradually be extended to other countries by 2027”.
Notícias ao Minuto | 09:39 – 06/10/2025
“To do this, all you need is a device with a camera to validate your identity, dispensing with the need for in-person service visits or sending documents,” the site states.
Additionally, keep in mind that the “procedure can still be conducted in person or via documentation”.
Do I need to complete the life certificate if I reside in Portugal?
In a frequently asked questions brochure on the subject, Social Security explains that “this is only required if, in the previous year, your registered residence with Social Security was abroad”.
“In 2025, the life certificate must be completed by pensioners who in 2024 had their address in Switzerland or Luxembourg,” it reads.
Pensioners under the Social Security scheme residing abroad, receiving disability, old age, and survivor pensions, must complete a life certificate. Understand what is at stake.
Notícias ao Minuto | 08:20 – 05/08/2025
More information on this subject can be found here.
