How to get your NIF in Portugal

What the NIF is, and why you need it

Everyone who pays tax in Portugal has a NIF — also called the número de contribuinte (taxpayer number). It identifies you to the Autoridade Tributária (the tax authority) and you will be asked for it constantly in daily life. You can get one even before you move, and having it does not, on its own, make you a tax resident.

You will be asked for it when opening a bank account, signing a lease, buying a SIM card, connecting the electricity, taking a job or registering as self-employed. In short: sort this out first. Once you have it, you can confirm it is well-formed with our NIF validator.

Option A — In person at Finanças

If you are already in Portugal (or visiting), this is the fastest route and it is free. Walk into any tax office (Serviço de Finanças) and you will usually leave with the number the same day.

1. 1
   Go to a tax office (Finanças) or Loja do Cidadão
   In larger cities, take a ticket; in small towns you rarely need an appointment.
2. 2
   Bring identification
   A passport or an EU citizen's ID card. If you want to be registered as a resident, add a valid residence permit (non-EU) or the EU citizen's registration certificate (EU). The tax office may also ask for proof of address.
3. 3
   Leave with the number
   It is printed on a slip on the spot. Keep it safe — it never changes.

Option B — Remotely, before you arrive

Can't travel yet? A lawyer or an online provider can act as your representative and request the NIF on your behalf. You send scans, they handle Finanças.

Fees vary by provider; the number itself is always free.

Documents you need

In practice, everyone needs identification (a passport or an EU citizen's ID card). If you want to be registered as a tax resident, add a valid residence permit (non-EU) or the EU citizen's registration certificate (EU); the tax office may also ask for proof of address. If you apply remotely, you also add a power of attorney for the fiscal representative. Once you have the NIF, the next step is usually the social-security number — see the NISS guide — and, if you are going to work for yourself, registering as self-employed.