How to get a NIF in Portugal as a foreigner
Facts last verified on against 4 sources (4 official). By the Relocate+ team.
Short answer
The NIF is Portugal's nine-digit tax number. You need it to work, open a bank account or deal with the tax authority, and it stays the same whether you're resident or not. Requesting one is free.[1][3][4]
You can apply in person at a tax office (Serviço de Finanças) or Loja do Cidadão by appointment, or online through the e-balcão, which a legal representative must submit for you. You don't need a tax representative just to request a NIF, but once you have a tax relationship in Portugal you have 15 days to appoint one or sign up for electronic notifications.[1][3][2]
Key facts at a glance
Ways to apply
In person at a tax office or Loja do Cidadão
Best for: People in Portugal, or visiting, who can attend themselves.
Requirement: Book an appointment online on the Portal das Finanças or by phone, then bring a valid passport (with your entry visa if you're from outside the EU) and proof of your address abroad if it isn't on your ID.[1][3]
Online through the e-balcão
Best for: People applying from abroad.
Requirement: A legal representative logs in to the Portal das Finanças and files the request with copies of your passport, proof of your address abroad, their own ID and a power of attorney. ePortugal says this route is for people living outside the EU, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.[1][3][4]
Step-by-step timeline
- 1
Step 1
Choose in person or online
If you can be in Portugal, book a tax office appointment. If you're abroad, use a representative who can file through the e-balcão.[1][4]
- 2
Step 2
Gather your documents
Your passport (plus entry visa if you're a third-country national) and proof of your foreign address. Use originals or certified copies, with certified translations of anything not in Portuguese.[1][3]
- 3
Step 3
Book or file
Book through Portal das Finanças (Contactos > Atendimento por Marcação) or call +351 217 206 707. Online, your representative selects Registo Contribuinte > Identificação > Atrib/Alte NIF – Singulares.[1]
- 4
Step 4
Receive your NIF
If everything is in order, the NIF is issued with non-resident status.[1]
- 5
Within 15 days of a tax relationship
Representative or e-notifications
Once you own a car or property, sign a Portuguese employment contract or start self-employment, you have 15 days to appoint a tax representative or join an electronic notification channel (Portal das Finanças notifications or ViaCTT).[2][3]
- 6
When you move
Switch to resident status
When you become tax resident in Portugal, ask the tax authority to change your address and tax status. Your NIF number itself stays the same.[1]
Document checklist
- Valid passport or equivalent ID[1][3]
- Entry visa, if you're from outside the EU/Schengen[1][4]
- Proof of your address abroad (if not on your ID)[1][3]
- Representative's ID and power of attorney (online route)[1][3]
- Certified translations of foreign-language documents[1][3]
- For children without a passport: proof of birth[4]
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| NIF application | Free[4] |
| NISS (social security number) | Free[4] |
| Fine for not appointing a required representative | €75–€7,500[3] |
Private representatives and lawyers charge their own fees; the tax authority itself doesn't charge for a NIF.
Moving with family
Children can have a NIF too — for example so parents can include their health and education expenses in their IRS tax return. Without a passport, a document proving birth is used.[4]
Common mistakes to avoid
- Conflicting advice on representatives. ePortugal still says non-residents need a fiscal representative, but the tax authority's July 2025 guidance says it isn't required just to request a NIF.[4][3]
- Forgetting the 15-day rule. Buying a car or property or signing a Portuguese job contract triggers it; ignoring it can mean a fine of €75 to €7,500.[3][2]
- Self-employed from outside the EU. You must appoint a VAT-registered representative with Portuguese tax domicile before starting; electronic notifications don't replace this.[3][2]
- Uncertified copies or translations. The tax authority wants originals or certified copies.[1]
Frequently asked questions
How much does a NIF cost in Portugal?
Nothing — requesting a NIF is free. Only a private representative or lawyer, if you use one, will charge.[4]
Can I get a NIF from outside Portugal?
Yes, through the e-balcão on the Portal das Finanças, but a legal representative with a power of attorney must submit it for you.[1][3]
Do I need a fiscal representative for a NIF?
Not to request one, according to the tax authority. Once you have a tax relationship in Portugal, you have 15 days to appoint a representative or join electronic notifications; EU/EEA residents can choose either.[3][2]
Does my NIF change when I become resident?
No. The number stays the same; you ask the tax authority to update your address and tax status.[1]
What's the difference between NIF and NISS?
The NIF is your tax number. The NISS is your social security number, requested separately online (or by your employer) and also free.[4]
Sources
Every fact on this page links to one of these. Official = government, consulate or official gazette.
- [1] Apply for your NIF — Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira (Portal das Finanças)Official · checked 27 October 2026
- [2] Appoint a tax representative — Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira (Portal das Finanças)Official · checked 27 October 2026
- [3] Tax identification number to foreign citizens / non-residents (July 2025) — Autoridade Tributária e AduaneiraOfficial · checked 27 October 2026
- [4] How to request NIF and NISS for foreign citizens in Portugal — ePortugal (Government of Portugal)Official · checked 27 October 2026
Immigration rules change often. Always confirm requirements with the consulate or authority that handles your application before you book or pay for anything. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.