NIF Portugal: Why you need it and How to get it
Maybe you are planning to move to Portugal and you are wondering what a NIF is, what it’s for, and how to get it. In this comprehensive guide, we will help you step by step with everything you need to know.
If you want to buy a property, a car, work in Portugal, retire here, or maybe start your own business, you will have to get your NIF.
What is NIF Portugal?
The NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal), also known as the Portuguese Tax Identification Number, is a unique 9-digit number assigned to individuals and businesses in Portugal. This number is essential for various financial and administrative purposes in the country, as we mentioned before.
Why you need the NIF Number
You will need the NIF number for many purposes, including:
- Tax identification: It’s used to identify taxpayers in Portugal.
- Financial transactions: Required for opening bank accounts, purchasing property, and signing contracts.
- Employment: Necessary for working legally in Portugal.
- Business operations: Essential for starting and running a business in the country.
Who needs a NIF?
- Portuguese citizens
- Foreign residents
- Non-residents who own property or conduct business in Portugal
- Tourists planning extended stays or making significant purchases
Documents and Requirements
If you want to apply for a NIF as a natural person, you will need to comply with the following:
Citizen of another EU country
- To be considered a resident for tax purposes, you will need to provide:
- A civil identity document, passport, or certificate of registration as a European Union citizen issued by the municipality of your area of residence.
- To be considered a non-resident for tax purposes, you will need to provide:
- A civil identity document or passport.
- For foreign minors without a passport, you must provide:
- Proof of birth.
If you are a national of a third country
- To be considered a resident for tax purposes, you will need to provide:
- An identity document or passport, and a residence permit.
- To be considered a non-resident for tax purposes, you will need to provide:
- An identity document or passport.
- You must also appoint a tax representative (either a natural person or legal entity) who is resident in Portugal.
- For foreign minors without a passport, you must provide:
- Proof of birth.
Note: If you are a third-country national presenting your passport, you will also need to provide your entry visa for Portugal or the Schengen area.
Important Information
If you apply for a NIF in Portugal and do not have a residence in the country, the European Union (EU), or the European Economic Community (EEC), you will need to have a “Tax Representative” (Representante Fiscal) who has a valid address and NIF in Portugal to act on your behalf.
How to Contact a Representante Fiscal in Portugal?
When we were applying for ours, we contacted a tax representative through Anchorless.io. You will have to fill out a form and deliver copies of the documents mentioned above, a photocopy of your passport, and sign some documents digitally.
In 2023, the representative cost 50€ per NIF, but now the price is around 99€, apparently due to high demand. However, the aplication for the NIF is free, remember that only non-residents from third countries need to hire a tax representative.
If you want to contact Anchorless you will have a 10% discount using this link
How far in advance can you apply for the NIF?
Obtaining a NIF in Portugal is definitely an important step if you want to apply for a visa that requires a bank account in the country, such as the D7 or D2 visa.
There is no time limit for requesting the NIF, for example, you can obtain it today but travel to Portugal in 2 more years.
It is also essential if you want to invest in Portugal or open a bank account for savings. Additionally, if you are looking for work, having a NIF will allow you to streamline the process, as you need this number to obtain the NISS and other important documents.
How to Get the NIF Portugal Online?
To apply online, you will need a tax representative who can make an appointment at eBalcão using their Digital Mobile Key, Citizen’s Card, or Tax Identification Number and password.
You can also make an appointment calling the tax office at 217 206 707. Consider that most public workers don´t speak english.
