How do I get a NIF (tax number) in Portugal before I move there?

The NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is Portugal's tax identification number, and you'll need one for almost everything: opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, applying for a visa, and buying property. Here's how to get one, even before you arrive.

What is a NIF?

A nine-digit number issued by the Portuguese tax authority (Autoridade Tributária) that identifies you for all tax and financial purposes in Portugal.

Why You Need It First

You cannot:

• Open a Portuguese bank account (required for visa)
• Sign a rental contract
• Set up utilities
• File visa applications (many require bank account first)

This creates a chicken-and-egg problem that you need to solve.

Methods to Get a NIF

Option 1: In Person at Tax Office (Free)

If you're visiting Portugal:

1. Go to a local Finanças (tax office) or Loja do Cidadão
2. Bring:

• Valid passport
• Proof of address from your home country (utility bill, bank statement)

1. Request a NIF for non-residents
2. Receive your NIF immediately

For non-EU citizens: You may need a fiscal representative (see below)

Option 2: Through a Fiscal Representative

Previously required for all non-EU residents, now technically optional but often helpful:

• A Portuguese tax resident who acts as your contact for tax matters
• Many services offer this (~€150-250)
• Handles communication with tax authorities on your behalf

Option 3: Online Services

Several companies offer remote NIF applications:

• e-Residence (€100-150)
• Bordr (€80-150)
• Portuguese immigration lawyers (€150-300+)

Process:

1. Submit passport copy and proof of address
2. They file on your behalf
3. Receive NIF in 1-5 business days

Option 4: Through Your Bank

Some banks (like Millennium BCP's non-resident account service) help with NIF as part of account opening. Useful if you're doing both together.

2022 Rule Change

As of July 2022, non-EU residents no longer legally REQUIRE a fiscal representative to get a NIF. However:

• Some tax offices still request one (rules applied inconsistently)
• Having one can simplify the process
• For ongoing tax matters, a representative is still useful

Required Documents

Timeline

• In person: Same day
• Online services: 1-5 business days
• Through lawyer: 1-2 weeks

After Getting Your NIF

With your NIF, you can:

1. Open a Portuguese bank account
2. Proceed with visa application
3. Sign rental contracts
4. Set up utilities
5. Make purchases requiring NIF (some shops ask for it for receipts)

Important Tips

1. Get NIF before bank account: Most banks require it
2. Keep the document safe: You'll use this number constantly
3. Non-resident vs resident NIF: Initially you get a non-resident NIF; it converts when you become resident
4. Tax residency: Having a NIF doesn't make you tax resident—spending 183+ days in Portugal does
5. Update your address: Once you have a Portuguese address, update it with the tax office

Cost Summary

Getting your NIF is often the first step in your Portugal journey. Do it early—even months before you plan to move—to simplify everything that follows.