Get nif number Portugal

Complete Guide to Getting Your NIF Number in Portugal: Everything Expats Need to Know in 2025

Moving to Portugal? The first essential step in your journey is obtaining your NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) – Portugal’s tax identification number. Whether you’re planning to work, invest, or retire in this beautiful country, your NIF is the golden key that unlocks virtually every administrative door. At Access Portugal, we’ve helped thousands of expats navigate this crucial process, and we’re here to guide you through every step.

What is a NIF Number and Why Do You Need It?

The NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is Portugal’s taxpayer identification number – a unique 9-digit number that serves as your fiscal identity throughout the country. Think of it as Portugal’s equivalent to a Social Security Number in the US or a National Insurance Number in the UK, but with even broader applications.

Your NIF is absolutely essential for virtually every aspect of life in Portugal. You’ll need it to:

Open a bank account
Sign rental agreements or purchase property
Register utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet)
Purchase a vehicle
Sign employment contracts
Start a business
Access healthcare services
Register for Social Security (NISS)
File tax returns
Make significant purchases (like furniture or electronics)

Without a NIF, you simply cannot function in Portuguese society. It’s not just a bureaucratic formality – it’s the cornerstone of your administrative existence in Portugal. The Portuguese tax authority (Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira – AT) uses this number to track all your fiscal obligations and ensure proper tax compliance.

What makes the NIF particularly important is its permanence. Once issued, your NIF remains yours for life, regardless of whether you leave Portugal and return later. This continuity makes it invaluable for anyone considering long-term ties to Portugal, whether through investment, retirement, or eventual Portuguese citizenship.

Who Needs a NIF in Portugal?

The simple answer is: everyone who has any financial dealings in Portugal needs a NIF. This includes:

Foreign Residents If you’re planning to live in Portugal under any visa category – whether it’s the D7 passive income visa, D2 entrepreneur visa, or D1 work visa – obtaining a NIF is mandatory. You’ll need it even before you arrive to set up essential services.

Property Buyers and Investors Anyone purchasing property in Portugal, including those applying for the Golden Visa program, must have a NIF. Real estate transactions cannot proceed without both buyer and seller having valid NIFs.

Remote Workers and Digital Nomads With the introduction of the D8 digital nomad visa, remote workers need a NIF to demonstrate tax compliance and access local services, even if their income comes from abroad.

Business Owners and Freelancers Whether you’re establishing a company or working as a freelancer, a NIF is essential for issuing invoices, paying taxes, and maintaining proper business records. Those on the startup visa particularly need this for their entrepreneurial activities.

Students International students on the D4 study visa need a NIF to rent accommodation, open bank accounts, and potentially work part-time during their studies.

Tourists Making Significant Purchases Even tourists might need a NIF when making substantial purchases, buying vehicles, or inheriting property in Portugal. Some luxury retailers require a NIF for high-value transactions.

Anyone Opening a Portuguese Bank Account Banks in Portugal require a NIF for account opening, making it essential for anyone who needs local banking services, regardless of their residency status.

Documents Required for NIF Application

The documentation needed for your NIF application varies depending on your status and nationality. At Access Portugal, we’ve seen countless applications, and proper documentation is crucial for a smooth process.

For EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens:

Valid passport or national ID card
Proof of address in home country (utility bill, bank statement, or rental agreement from the last 3 months)
Portuguese address (if available) or fiscal representative’s address

For Non-EU Citizens:

Valid passport
Proof of address in home country (recent utility bill or bank statement)
Portuguese address or fiscal representative authorization
Additional documents may include:
- Visa (if already obtained)
- Rental contract (if available)
- Employment contract (for workers)
- University acceptance letter (for students)

For Business Purposes:

Company formation documents
Power of attorney (if applying through a representative)
Business plan (for startup visa applicants)
Proof of investment (for investors)

For Property Purchase:

Property purchase agreement (Contrato Promessa de Compra e Venda)
Proof of funds
Legal representative’s authorization (if using one)

Important Note: All foreign documents must be translated into Portuguese by a certified translator and may need apostille certification, depending on your country of origin. Documents from countries that aren’t part of the Hague Convention require consular legalization.

Step-by-Step Process to Get Your NIF

Getting your NIF can be straightforward when you know the process. Here’s the comprehensive guide Access Portugal uses to help our clients:

Step 1: Determine Your Application Method

You have three main options:

In-person at a Finanças office (tax office)
Through a fiscal representative
Online (limited availability)

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all required documents based on your situation. Ensure everything is current (within 3 months) and properly translated. Our team at Access Portugal can help verify your documentation is complete before submission.

Step 3: Book an Appointment (for in-person applications)

Visit the Portal das Finanças website or call your local tax office. Appointments are typically available within 1-2 weeks, though busy periods like September and January may have longer waits. Major cities like Lisbon and Porto often have multiple offices – choose the most convenient location.

Step 4: Attend Your Appointment

Arrive 15 minutes early with all documents. The process typically takes 20-30 minutes. The tax official will:

Verify your identity
Input your information into the system
Assign you a fiscal representative (if you don’t have a Portuguese address)
Issue your NIF immediately

Step 5: Receive Your NIF Document

You’ll receive a temporary paper with your NIF number immediately. The official NIF card (Cartão de Identificação Fiscal) is rarely issued now – the paper document is sufficient for all purposes. Keep multiple copies and store the number securely.

Step 6: Register for Portal das Finanças

With your NIF, register for online access at the Portal das Finanças. This allows you to:

Update your information
File tax returns
Check tax obligations
Download official documents

Step 7: Inform Relevant Parties

Once you have your NIF, provide it to:

Your employer (if applicable)
Your bank
Utility companies
Your landlord
Any service providers

NIF for Non-Residents vs Residents

Understanding the distinction between resident and non-resident NIF applications is crucial for proper tax compliance.

Non-Resident NIF

Non-residents are individuals who spend less than 183 days per year in Portugal or don’t have their primary residence in the country. Key considerations include:

Fiscal Representative Requirement Non-residents must appoint a fiscal representative – a Portuguese resident or entity who acts as your point of contact with tax authorities. This representative:

Receives official tax correspondence
Can be an individual or a professional service
Must have their own valid NIF
Remains responsible until officially changed

Tax Implications Non-residents are only taxed on Portuguese-sourced income, typically at flat rates:

Employment income: 25%
Investment income: 28%
Rental income: 28%
Pension income: 10% (if eligible for NHR status)

Limited Services Some services may be restricted for non-resident NIF holders, particularly regarding social benefits and certain tax deductions.

Resident NIF

Residents are those who meet one of these criteria:

Spend 183+ days in Portugal during a calendar year
Have their primary residence in Portugal
Have their center of vital interests in Portugal

No Fiscal Representative Needed Residents don’t require a fiscal representative as they have a Portuguese address for official correspondence.

Worldwide Income Taxation Residents are subject to Portuguese taxation on worldwide income, though double taxation treaties may apply. Tax rates are progressive, ranging from 14.5% to 48%.

Full Access to Services Resident NIF holders can access all Portuguese services, including:

Social Security benefits
National Health Service
All tax deductions and benefits
Simplified business regimes

Transition from Non-Resident to Resident When you become a tax resident, you must:

Update your tax status at Finanças
Dismiss your fiscal representative
Register your Portuguese address
Update your NIF address

Getting a NIF with a Fiscal Representative

For many expats, especially those applying from abroad, using a fiscal representative is the most practical solution. Here’s everything you need to know about this process.

What is a Fiscal Representative?

A fiscal representative (representante fiscal) is a Portuguese tax resident who agrees to receive official correspondence on your behalf and ensure you meet your tax obligations. They act as your liaison with Portuguese tax authorities until you establish residency.

Why Use a Fiscal Representative?

Remote Application: Apply for your NIF from your home country
No Portuguese Address Required: Essential for pre-arrival preparation
Professional Guidance: Many representatives offer additional tax advisory services
Language Support: Navigate Portuguese bureaucracy with English-speaking assistance
Ongoing Support: Help with annual tax obligations and updates

Choosing a Fiscal Representative

You have several options:

Professional Services Companies like Access Portugal offer comprehensive fiscal representation services, including:

NIF application processing
Annual tax return assistance
Tax optimization advice
Address update services
Multi-lingual support

Individual Representatives You can appoint a Portuguese friend or connection, but ensure they understand the responsibilities involved:

Receiving and forwarding official mail
Notifying you of tax deadlines
Being available for tax authority queries
Maintaining their own tax compliance

Lawyers and Accountants Many Portuguese legal and accounting firms offer fiscal representation as part of broader services, particularly useful for:

Property purchasers
Business owners
Golden Visa applicants

The Fiscal Representative Process

Sign a Power of Attorney: Authorize your representative to act on your behalf
Provide Required Documents: Same as standard NIF application
Representative Submits Application: They handle the Finanças appointment
Receive Your NIF: Usually within 1-2 business days
Ongoing Relationship: Maintain contact for tax obligations

Costs and Considerations

Fiscal representation fees vary:

One-time NIF application: €50-200
Annual representation: €100-500
Combined packages with tax services: €300-1000+

Remember, you’ll need to maintain this relationship until you:

Establish Portuguese residency
Update your address with Finanças
Formally dismiss your representative

Changing or Dismissing Your Fiscal Representative

When you’re ready to manage your own tax affairs:

Obtain Portuguese proof of address
Visit Finanças with your documents
Complete form “Modelo 11”
Notify your current representative
Update your contact information

Online NIF Application Options {#online-application}

The digital transformation of Portuguese services has introduced some online options for NIF applications, though availability remains limited.

e-Balcão Portal

The newest option for certain applicants:

Eligibility

EU citizens with digital certificates
Portuguese citizens abroad
Limited pilot program participants

Process

Access e-Balcão through Portal das Finanças
Authenticate with digital certificate
Upload required documents
Receive NIF electronically

Limitations

Not available for all nationalities
Requires compatible digital ID
Technical issues common
May still require fiscal representative

Video Conference Appointments

Some Finanças offices now offer video appointments:

Requirements

Pre-scheduled appointment
Stable internet connection
Valid email address
Document scanning capability

Best Suited For

Portuguese speakers
EU citizens
Simple applications
Tech-savvy applicants

Representative Online Applications

Many fiscal representatives offer streamlined online processes:

Access Portugal’s Digital Process

Complete online form
Upload documents securely
Digital signature via DocuSign
Video verification call
Receive NIF within 48 hours

Advantages

No need to visit Portugal
Professional verification
Guaranteed acceptance
Ongoing support included
Multi-language assistance

Future Developments

Portugal continues expanding digital services:

Planned non-EU citizen access
Mobile app development
Integration with SEF/AIMA services
Simplified renewal processes

However, complex cases still benefit from professional assistance to avoid delays and ensure compliance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

After helping thousands of clients, Access Portugal has identified the most frequent NIF application errors:

1. Incorrect Documentation

The Mistake: Bringing outdated documents or incorrect translations The Solution: Ensure all documents are:

Less than 3 months old
Officially translated by certified translators
Properly apostilled when required
Complete with all pages

2. Wrong Finanças Office

The Mistake: Going to a Finanças office that doesn’t handle foreign applications The Solution:

Confirm the office serves international clients
In Lisbon: Finanças Lisboa 3 or Airport office
In Porto: Finanças Porto 1
Call ahead to verify services

3. Misunderstanding Fiscal Representation

The Mistake: Choosing an unreliable fiscal representative or not understanding their role The Solution:

Vet representatives carefully
Understand the legal obligations
Maintain regular communication
Keep their contact information updated

4. Tax Status Confusion

The Mistake: Incorrectly declaring tax residency status The Solution:

Understand the 183-day rule
Consider your center of vital interests
Consult professionals for complex situations
Review double taxation treaties

5. Not Updating Information

The Mistake: Failing to update address or status changes The Solution:

Update your NIF address when moving
Change tax status when becoming resident
Dismiss fiscal representative when appropriate
Keep contact information current

6. Ignoring Tax Obligations

The Mistake: Getting a NIF but ignoring subsequent tax duties The Solution:

File annual tax returns even with no income
Declare foreign assets if required
Meet all deadlines
Seek professional tax advice

7. Language Barriers

The Mistake: Attempting complex applications without Portuguese language skills The Solution:

Bring a translator or Portuguese speaker
Use professional services
Prepare key phrases
Have documents pre-translated

8. Incomplete Business Documentation

The Mistake: Startup visa and D2 visa applicants providing insufficient business proof The Solution:

Include detailed business plans
Provide financial projections
Show proof of funds
Document relevant experience

NIF for Different Purposes

Your reason for obtaining a NIF affects the process and requirements. Here’s how to approach each scenario:

Property Purchase 🏠

Essential for all real estate transactions:

Before Viewing Properties

Obtain NIF to make offers
Open Portuguese bank account
Demonstrate serious buyer status

For the Purchase Process

Required for promissory contracts
Needed for mortgage applications
Essential for deed signing
Necessary for utility transfers

Special Considerations

Golden Visa investors need NIF before investment
Joint purchases require NIFs for all parties
Company purchases need corporate NIF

Employment and Business 💼

Critical for all work-related activities:

Employees

Required before starting work
Needed for employment contracts
Essential for social security registration
Necessary for salary payments

Freelancers and Contractors

Invoice issuance requirement
Tax payment obligation
Green receipts (recibos verdes) system access
Quarterly tax submissions

Business Owners

Company formation prerequisite
VAT registration requirement
Business bank account opening
Employee hiring capability

Banking and Finance 💳

Fundamental for financial services:

Bank Accounts

Mandatory for all account types
Required for credit cards
Needed for investment accounts
Essential for mortgage applications

Investments

Stock market participation
Cryptocurrency reporting
Property investment
Business investments

Education 📚

Important for students and families:

University Students

D4 visa compliance
Accommodation contracts
Part-time work authorization
Scholarship applications

Families with Children

School enrollment
Healthcare registration
Child benefit applications
Educational tax deductions

Retirement 🌴

Crucial for retirees:

Pension Recipients

NHR status application
Pension payment receipts
Healthcare access
Tax optimization

Retirement Planning

D7 visa applications
Property purchases
Investment management
Estate planning

Digital Nomads 💻

Essential for remote workers:

D8 Visa Holders

Visa application requirement
Accommodation contracts
Co-working space memberships
Local service access

Tax Compliance

Income declaration
Potential NHR benefits
Double taxation relief
Expense deductions

Updating Your NIF Information

Maintaining accurate NIF information is a legal requirement that many expats overlook. Here’s your complete guide to keeping your fiscal data current:

When to Update Your NIF

Change of Address

Moving within Portugal
Changing from non-resident to resident
Updating fiscal representative address

Status Changes

Marriage or divorce
Becoming tax resident
Starting or closing a business
Change in family composition

Contact Information

New phone number
Updated email address
Change of fiscal representative

How to Update Your Information

Online via Portal das Finanças

Log in with your credentials
Navigate to “Dados Pessoais”
Select information to update
Submit supporting documents
Await confirmation

In-Person at Finanças

Book appointment or visit during open hours
Bring identification and proof of changes
Complete necessary forms
Receive immediate confirmation

Through Your Fiscal Representative

Provide new information to representative
Sign authorization if required
Representative submits changes
Confirmation sent to both parties

Required Documents for Updates

Address Changes

Rental contract or property deed
Recent utility bill
Residency certificate (atestado de residência)
Updated NIF address form

Status Changes

Marriage/divorce certificate
Birth certificates (for dependents)
Business registration documents
Cessation of activity declarations

Common Update Scenarios

Becoming a Tax Resident

Gather proof of 183+ days in Portugal
Dismiss fiscal representative
Register Portuguese address
Update tax status
Review tax obligations

Moving Cities

Update address within 60 days
Change Finanças office if needed
Notify fiscal representative
Update all linked services

Starting a Business

Register business activity
Choose tax regime
Update professional status
Enable invoice issuance

Penalties for Not Updating

Failure to maintain current information can result in:

Fines from €200-€2,500
Missed tax notifications
Inability to access services
Complications with visa renewals
Problems with residency applications

Frequently Asked Questions {#faq}

How long does it take to get a NIF?

If applying in person with all correct documents, you receive your NIF immediately during the appointment. Through a fiscal representative or online service like Access Portugal, expect 1-2 business days. The official card is no longer issued – the paper document with your number is sufficient.

Can I get a NIF without visiting Portugal?

Yes! You can obtain a NIF through a fiscal representative without being physically present in Portugal. This is particularly useful for property buyers, visa applicants, and anyone planning their move in advance. Access Portugal specializes in remote NIF applications for clients worldwide.

How much does a NIF cost?

The NIF itself is free when applying directly at Finanças. However, you may incur costs for:

Fiscal representative services (€50-200 for application)
Document translations (€20-50 per document)
Professional assistance (varies by provider)
Apostille certifications (varies by country)

Do children need a NIF?

Children need a NIF if they:

Own property in Portugal
Have bank accounts in their name
Receive income (inheritance, investments)
Are included in family visa applications Parents can apply on behalf of minor children with birth certificates and parental identification.

Can I have multiple NIFs?

No, each person can only have one NIF, which remains valid for life. If you’ve previously had a NIF and forgotten it, Finanças can retrieve it using your identification documents. Attempting to obtain multiple NIFs is illegal and can result in serious penalties.

What’s the difference between NIF and NISS?

NIF is your tax number used for all fiscal matters, while NISS (Número de Identificação de Segurança Social) is your social security number. You need a NIF first, then can apply for NISS if you’re working or running a business in Portugal.

Can tourists get a NIF?

Yes, tourists can obtain a NIF if they need to:

Purchase property
Buy a vehicle
Make significant purchases
Open a bank account
Inherit assets in Portugal Tourist NIFs require a fiscal representative since tourists don’t have Portuguese addresses.

How do I check if my NIF is valid?

You can verify your NIF status by:

Logging into Portal das Finanças
Calling Finanças (707 206 707)
Visiting any Finanças office
Asking your fiscal representative
Using the AT mobile app

Conclusion {#conclusion}

Obtaining your NIF is the essential first step in establishing your life in Portugal. Whether you’re drawn here by the golden visa program, planning to retire in Portugal, or starting a new business venture, your NIF opens doors to countless opportunities.

At Access Portugal, we understand that navigating Portuguese bureaucracy can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with language barriers and unfamiliar procedures. That’s why our team of experts is here to make your NIF application process smooth and stress-free. With our professional fiscal representation services, you can obtain your NIF from anywhere in the world, ensuring you’re ready to embrace your Portuguese dream from day one.

Don’t let administrative hurdles delay your plans. Whether you’re purchasing property, starting a business, or simply preparing for your new life in Portugal, we’re here to help. Our comprehensive services go beyond just NIF applications – we support you through visa applications, property purchases, bank account opening, and ongoing tax compliance.

Ready to take the first step? Contact Access Portugal today and let our experienced team guide you through your NIF application. With our expertise and your ambition, your Portuguese journey begins here.

📞 Contact us for a consultation 📧 Email our team for personalized assistance!