Applying for a taxpayer identification number (NIF) for a natural person
The taxpayer identification number or Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF) in Portuguese, is a form of personal identification that is essential for purchasing goods or services, entering into contracts, opening bank accounts, etc.
Portuguese nationals with a valid Citizen’s Card already have a NIF allocated to them.
If you are not in the aforementioned category, find out how to apply for a NIF.
See also the 'How to request the NIF and the NISS for foreign citizens in Portugal' page in the following languages: Portuguese, English, Arabic, Hindi and Mandarin.
Service channels
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Request Online
Through the tax representative of the person applying for the taxpayer identification number (NIF).
Free
Anytime, through ebalcão.
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Request On Location
The NIF is assigned at the time of the request, by means of an oral statement.
Free
At any time, during the opening hours of the counters.
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Who can apply for a taxpayer identification number (NIF) for a natural person?
When can you apply for a taxpayer identification number (NIF) for a natural person?
You can request the Tax Identification Number (NIF) at any time.
If you already have the NIF assigned and there is a situation of loss, loss, theft, deterioration or need for renewal of the Taxpayer Card, learn how to request a 2nd copy of the card.
What are the documents and requirements to apply for a taxpayer identification number (NIF) for a natural person?
If you are a Portuguese national
- For children under the age of 10 without a Citizen’s Card, a birth certificate or equivalent document must be produced.
If you are a citizen of another EU country
- To be considered a resident for tax purposes, you will need to produce:
a civil identity document or a passport or a certificate of registration as a European Union citizen, issued by the municipality of the area of residence.
- To be considered a non-resident for tax purposes, you will need to produce:
a civil identity document or a passport.
- For foreign minors without a passport, the following must be produced:
proof of birth.
If you are a national of a third country
- To be considered a resident for tax purposes, you will need to produce:
an identity document or a passport and residence permit.
- To be considered a non-resident for tax purposes, you will need to produce:
an identity document or a passport, and you must appoint a tax representative (natural or legal person) resident in Portugal.
- For foreign minors without a passport, the following must be produced:
proof of birth.
Note: if you are a third-country national and you are producing your passport, you will also need to produce your entry visa for Portugal or the Schengen area.
What is the price to apply for a taxpayer identification number (NIF) for a natural person?
It is free.
How can you apply for a taxpayer identification number (NIF) for a natural person?
The NIF is allocated to persons with Portuguese nationality when they apply for a Citizen’s Card.
Other EU citizens and third-country nationals can request a NIF by submitting the requested documents:
- at the Tax Office, by booking a face-to-face appointment.
- at the e-counter of the Tax Office, through the tax representative of the person applying for the NIF, if you have residence in a third country or in the following European Economic Area countries: Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
Note: The designation of the representative can be made by the citizen himself, with the representative's acceptance, or by a proxy, also with the representative's acceptance.