What is a NIF and how do I get one for Portugal?
Updated · AIMA, NIF & bank guide · Not legal advice
A NIF (número de identificação fiscal) is Portugal's taxpayer number, issued by the Tax and Customs Authority (AT), and you'll need it to sign a lease, open a bank account and deal with AIMA. Non-residents can get one at a tax office in Portugal or through a representative; as a non-EU non-resident you generally need a tax representative unless you opt into the AT's electronic notifications.
| Route | How | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| In person in Portugal | Finanças office with passport and proof of foreign address | Free from AT |
| Through a representative | Lawyer, accountant or service applies for you with a power of attorney | Their fee |
| Online services | Private providers (they act as your representative) | Their fee |
The tax representative question
Non-residents from outside the EU are generally required to appoint a tax representative in Portugal for their NIF, unless they sign up for the AT's electronic notification system. Once you become a resident, update your address at Finanças and the representative is no longer needed. Check the Portal das Finanças for the current rule.
Quick answers
- What is a NIF and how do I get one for Portugal?
- Portugal's tax number. Get it at a tax office or through a representative.
- Do I need a NIF before applying for the D8?
- It isn't on the MNE's list, but you'll need it to sign a lease or open a bank account, which many files include.
- Does a NIF make me a tax resident?
- No. Tax residency depends on days and home; see tax residency.
What to do next
Haven't filed yet? The free D8 check builds a checklist that already includes NIF, accommodation and the AIMA step. Our $599 review checks the whole file before you submit.
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Checked: . Rules change; confirm current values on the official pages above before you file.