NIF Portugal 2026: How to Get Your Tax Number

Updated 25 October 2026· Checked against official sources

Quick answer: Portuguese citizens get their NIF automatically with the Cartão de Cidadão. Foreigners apply for a NIF at a tax office (Serviço de Finanças) or Loja do Cidadão with a passport and proof of address; people living outside the EU may need a tax representative.

The NIF (número de identificação fiscal — tax number) is the number you need for almost everything in Portugal. This guide explains how to get a NIF in Portugal as a foreigner.

Who needs to apply for a NIF in Portugal

Portuguese citizens: the NIF is given with the Cartão de Cidadão (citizen card) — no need to apply.
Foreigners: you need to apply to work, rent a home, open a bank account, etc.

How to get a NIF in Portugal, step by step (foreigners)

Gather the documents: passport or identity document and proof of address.
Go to a Serviço de Finanças (tax office) or Loja do Cidadão (citizen service centre) (you can book an appointment online).
If you live outside the EU/EEA, check whether you must appoint a tax representative (representante fiscal) or whether you can choose electronic notifications instead — the rules are in the Finanças leaflet for non-residents, linked on the ePortugal page about the NIF.
You get the NIF on the spot.
Ask for the Portal das Finanças password — it arrives by letter at the address you gave. See Portal das Finanças login.

Frequently asked questions

Is getting a NIF in Portugal free?

Applying at the tax office (Finanças) is free. Private services that apply for you charge for being the middleman.

Do I need a tax representative to get a NIF?

In general, people living outside the European Union/EEA need a tax representative or must sign up for electronic notifications, according to the current rules.