Applying for a taxpayer identification number (NIF) for a natural person

The taxpayer identification number, in Portuguese Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF), 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

  • Online

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

    Free

    The appointment is made at ebalcão, choose the "Appointment" option. The representative will have to authenticate themselves with the Digital Mobile Key, Citizen's Card or Tax Identification Number and password.

  • Appointments at a tax office can be made by telephoning 217 206 707.

    Free

    The NIF is assigned at the time of the request, through a verbal declaration.

Who can applying 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Note: the Taxpayer’s Card has been replaced by the Citizen’s Card (for nationals and Brazilian citizens covered under the ‘Porto Seguro’ Agreement).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 applying for a taxpayer identification number (NIF) for a natural person?

You can request the Tax Identification Number (NIF) at any time.

What are the documents and requirements to applying 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.

What is the price to applying for a taxpayer identification number (NIF) for a natural person?

It is free.

How applying 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.