The NIF number is a unique individual tax identification number used in Portugal assigned by the Portuguese tax authorities. The number is essential to carry out any economic activity in Portugal, such as paying taxes, opening a Portuguese bank account, or signing any contract. In short, you need it for almost all tax purposes and financial transactions.
As it’s so commonly used, if you’re considering moving to Portugal or are already here, your priority should be getting your NIF. This can seem complicated, but it is pretty straightforward once you understand the process.
To help you, we have created this guide walking you through everything you need to know about getting a NIF number in Portugal.
What is the Portuguese tax identification number (NIF number) in Portugal?
A Portuguese NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal), which is known as a contribution number (Número de contribuinte), is an individual tax identification number used in Portugal. Each individual who applies for a NIF will be assigned a unique nine-digit number.
Who uses the Portuguese taxpayer number?
Portuguese citizens, foreigners who live in Portugal, or individuals who have business interests in or financial ties to Portugal should get an NIF number.
While it is not mandatory by law to get a NIF, having a NIF in Portugal is very important. The número de identificação fiscal is used in several financial transactions and activities such as signing a legal lease, signing up for a Wifi contract, opening a bank account, paying taxes, or legally working in Portugal.
The NIF number is as essential as a social security number in the United States, as it’s necessary for engaging in official or legal fiscal activities such as paying annual income taxes in Portugal, renting or buying property in Portugal, or signing up for utilities.
Where can I use my Portuguese NIF number?
The NIF number Portugal is used by both foreign residents and Portuguese nationals in any official fiscal transactions and business transactions, including:
- Buying and selling property
- Inheriting Portuguese assets
- Opening a bank account
- Acquiring loans, including a mortgage
- Paying taxes in Portugal (and for getting a tax return)
- Receiving tax benefits (such as tax deductions, even for small purchases such as buying medication at a pharmacy)
- Receiving an income
- Enrolling in a Portuguese university
- Receiving social security payments
- Setting up utilities
- Buying a car or applying for a Portuguese driving license
- Signing a local contract (e.g., a cellphone contract)
How To Get a NIF Number in Portugal
The process for getting a NIF in Portugal depends on your circumstances, such as whether you are a Portuguese resident or non-resident or an EEA/EU resident.
You can apply for a NIF number by:
- Attending an appointment at the local tax office (Finanças) or citizen shop (Loja do Cidadão)
- Appointing a lawyer or an accountant to apply for it on your behalf
- Applying through a third-party provider that handles the entire NIF application on your behalf
Getting your NIF as a Portuguese resident
If you’re a Portuguese resident, you can apply at your local tax office or citizen shop. You can find your nearest tax office by searching on Google Maps. Bear in mind that there are often long lines with long waiting times. Some tax offices require you to make an appointment, so you should check whether is necessary first. If so, check whether you can book an appointment, which you can do here.
Ensure you have all the necessary documents (we’ll cover those later in the article) before you go to the tax office. If you don’t speak Portuguese, it can be advisable to bring a translator with you, as not all staff can speak English.
Alternatively, you can apply online by granting power of attorney to a representative who can complete the process for you, which is the easiest solution.
Getting your NIF remotely
With the online system, you do not need to be physically present in Portugal to get a NIF. You can apply from outside Portugal via a representative such as a lawyer (more on that later).
Conveniently, we provide this service for existing or incoming clients. For more information, contact us today.
Getting a NIF for non-EU Citizens
If you’re applying for a NIF number as a non-European Union/European Economic Area/Swiss national who is not a Portuguese resident you’re required by law to appoint a fiscal representative for your NIF application.
What is a tax representative?
A fiscal representative is an individual or business that functions as a point of contact between a third-country national and Finanças.
The tax representative does not need to be a lawyer, a professional accounting company, or a registered Portuguese accountant. You can appoint any Portuguese permanent resident as long as they have a Portuguese address.
We advise against registering your NIF through a friend or acquaintance. This is because many local residents do not have a thorough understanding of Portuguese tax law, and you could run into difficulties, especially if your friend ever leaves Portugal.
Who needs fiscal representation? What is it for?
If you are not a resident of Portugal, you will need fiscal representation to apply for your NIF.
Any individual who is not a Portuguese resident or EU/EEA resident and owns property, a bank account, or has any other commercial activity or interest in Portugal must appoint a fiscal representative who is registered in the Portuguese tax system. This is because the tax and customs authority will need to contact you about your tax obligations in Portugal, and they won’t send mail outside of the EU or EEA.
If you move to Portugal, you’ll no longer need tax representation, as Financas will be able to contact you directly. If you do so and decide that you no longer want fiscal representation, you can request that the Portuguese tax authority remove the fiscal representation attached to your name and NIF.
Our Step-By-Step Guide to Getting a NIF
Step 1: Gather the required documents
First things first, you need to have the right documents, which are:
- An official photo ID (a passport, as an identification document, is your safest bet)
- Proof of a Portuguese address or an address in your resident country (a bank statement, utility bill or rental contract should suffice)
Bear in mind that you should only apply with a Portuguese address if you intend to be considered a Portuguese tax resident.
If you are applying through an attorney or fiscal representative, you will also need to submit a power of attorney, proving that they have the authority to act on your behalf.
If these documents are in a language other than Portuguese, English, French or Spanish, they must be translated into Portuguese.
Applicants who require a tax representative for the application will also need a letter of appointment, which we can draft for you.
Step 2: Apply in person or apply online for your NIF number
If you apply in person, you will need to go to Financas office with your documents and either attend your appointment or take a ticket and wait for your turn, depending on the policy of the office you go to.
If you apply online through a fiscal representative, they will log on to the NIF website to submit your documents and fill in your application form based on the information you have provided to them.
Step 3: Receive your NIF number
The Portuguese tax authority will provide you with a document stating your NIF number within 10 business days. This number does not expire; it’s your permanent Portuguese tax number.
Book a one-on-one consultation with our Portugal Tax Specialist
How do I get a NISS number?
Your NISS (Número de Identificação de Segurança Social) is your Portuguese social security identification number. You can only get your NISS if you are working in Portugal and have a job here. Also, if you’re a self-employed freelancer in Portugal, you need to have this number.
Your employer will get your social security number for you if you are working in a company, although you will still need to provide them with the documents that they will need. If you are self-employed, you can complete the process yourself or grant someone power of attorney to apply on your behalf.
You can apply for the NISS online here for free from the Segurança Social (Social Security Department). The required documents are a valid ID, such as a passport or residence permit, and proof of a Portuguese address. Once your application is submitted successfully, you’ll get an email with your NISS number and instructions on picking it up in person with your ID at a social security office. Alternatively, you can give someone power of attorney to collect it for you.
With your all-important NISS number, social security contributions are paid to the Portuguese government and are shared by the employer and employee. The rates generally applicable are 23.75 percent for employers and 11 percent for employees. These payments cover pension, family, and unemployment benefits.
Getting Business Tax Numbers in Portugal
Business tax identifiers in Portugal differ based on the type of entity. Freelancers, sole traders, and unincorporated partnerships can utilize their personal NIF for tax obligations. However, distinct legal entities like limited companies require their own NIF, known as the NIPC (Número de Identificação de Pessoa Colectiva). This NIPC, also serving as a VAT number, comprises ‘PT’ followed by nine digits.
You obtain the NIPC when you start a business in Portugal and register your business with both the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority and the Portugal Company Registry (Registo Nacional de Pessoas Colectivas). Applying for the NIPC can also be done online, typically requiring business registration documents, proof of address, and identification of the authorized representative.
Getting an Individual Taxpayer Number for the Portugal Golden Visa Process
An NIF number is essential for anyone pursuing the Portuguese Golden Visa. To apply for the Golden Visa you must make an investment in Portugal, which means that you’ll have to get a NIF in order to open a Portuguese bank account.
Investors who apply for the Portugal Golden Visa can appoint a fiscal representative to apply for a NIF number on their behalf when they apply for the visa.
Exploring Visa and Immigration Options for Portugal
If you're considering making the move to Portugal, it's essential to be informed about the various visa and residency options available. The Golden Visa Portugal program is an attractive option for many, offering residency to investors and their families. For those eyeing retirement in this beautiful country, the Retirement Visa (D7) is tailored for you. Digital nomads can take advantage of both short and long stay options with the Nomad Visa (D8). Meanwhile, the NHR - Non Habitual Tax regime provides significant tax benefits for new residents.
For the entrepreneurial spirit, Portugal offers the Entrepreneurship/startup Visa (D2) - Start-up Visa (open company) tailored for those looking to establish their businesses in the country. Those with specialized skills can explore the Work visa for highly qualified employees (D3). Additionally, if you have Portuguese ancestry, you might be eligible for Citizenship by descent.
However, moving to a new country isn't just about visas. If you're thinking of buying property, our guide on Buying Property in Portugal can offer invaluable insights. Dive deeper into the immigration process with our comprehensive Portugal immigration guide. For Americans specifically looking to relocate, we have curated information on Americans moving to Portugal. Lastly, one can't forget the importance of the NIF (Tax Registration Number), a crucial step in any relocation process.
Frequently Asked Questions about the NIF Number in Portugal
What is the tax number in Portugal?
Portugal’s tax number is known as a NIF (Numero de Identificacao Fiscal). It is also known as the tax contribution number (Numero de Contribuinte). The NIF is a nine-digit number necessary to conduct any financial activity or business within Portugal.
How do I find my NIF number?
This number is used in all correspondence between you and the Portuguese tax authority. When you get your NIF, you should receive a letter or document with the number written on it.
How do I get a NIF number in Portugal?
The best way to get a NIF Number in Portugal is to go to your closest Finanças or a Loja do Cidadão, which is the tax and customs authority. Make sure to take your passport and proof of address. You must also bring a fiscal representative if you are a non-EU/EEA citizen who is not a Portuguese resident. Alternatively, you can apply for the NIF number online through a fiscal representative.
How do I get a taxpayer ID in Portugal?
If you’re a Portuguese resident, getting a taxpayer identification number is simple. You apply for one at any branch of the Tax Authority or a Citizen’s Office.
If you’re a non-resident of Portugal, you’ll need to appoint tax representative, which can be anyone with Portuguese residence, to apply for a taxpayer ID number on your behalf. The tax representative should:
- Present a citizen’s card or permanent residency card
- Present their NIF
- Bring proof of their Portuguese address
Why do I need a fiscal representative?
A fiscal representative is known to the Portuguese tax authorities and can help you navigate the complexities of the Portuguese tax system. They are a contact point between you and Finanças, which can be very helpful if you are a non-resident.
How much does a fiscal representative cost in Portugal?
There is no set cost for a fiscal representative. We would recommend contacting a law firm or accountant and asking for a quote.
Does getting a NIF number mean that you will be taxed in Portugal?
Obtaining a NIF number does not lead to automatic taxation in Portugal, and it depends on how you are registered with the tax office. Whether or not you will be taxed in Portugal depends on factors such as the source of your income, whether you spend 183 days or more per year in Portugal, and whether Portugal has a Double Taxation Agreement with your home country.
What is the importance of NIF tax identification Portugal?
A NIF (número de identificação fiscal) is your Portuguese tax identification number, and it allows you to do things like open a bank account, have dealings in the Portuguese tax office, pay a utility bill or sign contracts.
Do tourists need a NIF in Portugal?
Generally, tourists don’t need a NIF in Portugal. You might get asked for it when making small purchases, such buying goods at the supermarket. However, this is just because Portuguese residents are able to get tax deductions on these purchases.
Having a NIF is only necessary if you live in Portugal for 183 days per year or more, which means you’d be considered a Portuguese tax resident, or if you’re applying for a visa or making a large purchase in Portugal, such as a car or a house.
