NIF Portugal: How to get your Portuguese tax ID

A tax identification number is crucial in setting up your life in Portugal. This guide’ll show you how to get your NIF and what you’ll need it for.

Ellie

3 minute read

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16 Aug 2024

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Living

When you move to Portugal, you’ll need to get a tax identification number (or in Portuguese número de identificação fiscal) to pay taxes, open a bank account and even sign certain contracts. Portuguese tax authorities assign this unique 9-digit number to its citizens when they turn 10, but as an expat, you’ll need to apply for it. Understanding this process can be a little daunting if you’re new to the country, so to guide you through the process.

Whether you’re a citizen, resident or even non-resident, you’ll need an NIF to carry out any tax-related tasks in Portugal. Some examples of when you’ll require your NIF are:

• Opening a bank account
• Signing any kind of credit-related contract (such as a mobile phone contract or utilities)
• Paying taxes in Portugal
• Receiving your Portuguese income
• Attending Portuguese university
• Getting a driving licence

Essentially, you’ll need an NIF to get through daily life in Portugal. Unless you’re simply visiting as a tourist, setting one up as soon as you get to Portugal is a good idea.

You can apply for your Portuguese NIF in Portugal, in person, or outside of Portugal using a third-party service. Regardless of the process you apply through, you’ll need to gather certain documents which are required for your application.

Documents required for your NIF application

The documents you’ll be required to provide for your NIF application include:

• A valid form of photo identification (like a passport)
• Proof of your address

Applying for your NIF in Portugal

Once you arrive in Portugal, you can apply for your NIF at your nearest Finanças (Portuguese tax) office. As it can take a few hours to be seen, you should schedule an appointment to avoid waiting all day. Booking an appointment without your NIF is only possible by calling [+351 217 206 707](tel: +351217206707).

Top tip: If you’re up for a journey and don’t want to wait in a busy office all day, Finanças offices in smaller towns often have less of a queue, so you won’t have to wait as long. But be aware that they’re less likely to speak English in these towns.

Once you find a Finanças, you just need to bring your documents and register for your NIF, and you’ll receive your Portuguese NIF on the spot.

Applying for your NIF is entirely free.

Applying for your NIF outside of Portugal

If you’d prefer to have your NIF sorted before you reach Portugal so you can skip the Finanças office queues, you can arrange it with a third-party online service. This is also a good solution for non-residents, as you can arrange your tax number without needing to be in Portugal.

Companies like Bordr, Anchorless and e-residence will help you arrange your NIF for a cost (usually between €79 to €200 depending on how quickly you need it and if you opt for any additional services). In this case, you’ll essentially give the company power of attorney to set up your NIF for you.

If you use a service like those mentioned above, it’ll take a bit longer to get your NIF. Depending on which company and which package you choose, it can take up to 10 working days.

You’ll essentially use your NIF to set up your new life in Portugal. From opening a bank account to buying insurance, your NIF will be crucial in getting set up. Some of the most important processes you’ll need your NIF for are:

• Opening your bank account: The vast majority of Portuguese banks will require you to have an NIF so they can link your bank account to your tax records. Having a Portuguese bank account makes it easy to receive your income, pay taxes, rent and more.
• Receiving your salary: Employers will need your NIF to deposit your salary into your bank account and to ensure you’re paying the correct amount of tax. If you’re self-employed or freelancing, you should include your NIF on invoices you create.
• Tax relations: Naturally, having an NIF is necessary to pay tax in Portugal, but also to receive tax deductions and credits.
• Renting a place: For the majority of rentals in Portugal, you’ll need your NIF to sign a rental contract. This can create a catch-22 for expats, as you may also need a Portuguese address to apply for the NIF. Finding a rental before you get to Portugal with companies like HousingAnywhere is an excellent way to avoid getting caught in this loop. HousingAnywhere’s landlords will allow you to book your rental from abroad before you even get to Portugal so you can hit the ground running and not pay for expensive short-term rentals.
• Setting up mobile and internet: To purchase a SIM card or set up a broadband contract, you’ll need to provide your NIF. Your NIF is required for any credit-related activities, so it’s needed when setting up these contracts.
• Purchasing insurance: Whether it’s health, car or phone insurance you’re setting up, you’ll need your NIF to do so. You cannot make any claims or even sign a contract without your NIF.
• Studying: Many schools and universities might ask you for your NIF during registration and while paying your tuition fees.

Having a Portuguese NIF is a crucial step in the process of being an international living in Portugal for the first time. The process of getting your NIF is very straightforward and free. Once you’ve got your NIF, you’ll find it easy to start your new life in Portugal and make the most of the culture, the weather and the beautiful scenery!