What is a NIF no. and how to get it?

1. What is a ‘NIF’ Number and How to Get It?

NIF stands for Número de Identificação Fiscal — it is the Tax Identification Number used in Portugal.

• It is mandatory for almost all official activities, like opening a bank account, signing rental contracts, setting up utilities, working legally, paying taxes, and even doing online shopping.

How to get a NIF:

• You must visit a Finanças office (Tax Office).
• If you are not yet a resident in Portugal, you need a tax representative (who is a resident or a company) to apply on your behalf.
• Documents needed:
  • Passport or EU ID card (if EU citizen).
  • Proof of address (either in Portugal or abroad; rental contract, utility bill, etc.).
  • Tax representative’s ID and address (if applicable).

Steps:

1. Go to the nearest Finanças (Agência Tributária e Aduaneira).
2. Take a ticket and wait your turn.
3. Tell them you want to apply for a NIF.
4. Fill a short form.
5. You will get the NIF number immediately on a paper called “Comprovativo de Atribuição de NIF” (proof of NIF allocation).

✅ Tip: Some companies (like Bordr, E-Residence) offer paid services to get a NIF online, especially useful if you are still outside Portugal.

2. How Important is a NIF Number?

Extremely important! You need a NIF for:

• Signing a job contract
• Renting or buying a house
• Opening a bank account
• Getting internet and phone contracts
• Applying for social security or healthcare
• Making large purchases (e.g., a car)
• Submitting annual tax returns
• Signing up for utilities (electricity, water, gas)

Without a NIF, you cannot integrate fully into the system in Portugal.

Is it possible to get a NIF no. from outside of Portugal?

Yes, it is definitely possible to get a NIF number even if you are outside of Portugal!

Here’s how it works:

How to Get a NIF from Outside Portugal

✅ Option 1: Hire a Service Company

• There are legal service companies that specialize in helping foreigners get a NIF remotely.
• Examples: Bordr.io, E-residence.com, NIFonline.pt, etc.
• You will need to:
  • Fill out an online form.
  • Provide a scanned copy of your passport (or ID if you are from EU).
  • Give proof of your current address (like a utility bill, driving license, etc.).
  • Sign a Power of Attorney (Procuração) allowing the company to act as your tax representative.

Once done, they apply at the Portuguese Finanças on your behalf and send you your NIF.

🕐 Time: Usually 1–2 weeks.

💶 Cost: Normally around €70 to €150, depending on the company.

✅ Option 2: Appoint a Friend or Lawyer

• If you know someone in Portugal (a friend, relative, lawyer), they can apply for your NIF if you give them a signed Power of Attorney.
• Your friend/lawyer will visit the Finanças office and get it for you.

🕐 Time: A few days once they visit Finanças.

💶 Cost: Free if a friend helps; lawyers may charge €50–€200.

Important:

• Until you become a resident in Portugal, you must have a tax representative (someone living in Portugal) linked to your NIF.
• Later, once you get residency, you can remove the representative by updating your details at Finanças.