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

  • Request Online

    Through the tax representative of the person applying for the taxpayer identification number (NIF).

    Free

  • 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.

    Search for a point of service near you:

Who can apply for a taxpayer identification number (NIF) for a natural person?

All Portuguese nationals or foreign nationals, resident or non-resident in Portugal, who have to comply with tax obligations (payment of taxes) or wish to exercise their rights before the Portuguese tax administration.

Note: the Taxpayer’s Card has been replaced by the Citizen’s Card (for nationals and Brazilian citizens covered under the ‘Porto Seguro’ Agreement).
 

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.