Get a NIF in Portugal online - Complete guide 2023

Get a NIF online: why ?

What is a NIF in Portugal ?

NIF is a taxpayer number in Portugal, or more precisely Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) . In English, it would be called “fiscal number” or “taxpayer number” for individuals. NIF allows the identification of each taxpayer and his tax obligations to make a registration request or a tax return. For individuals, it appears on the income tax return, corporate tax return, income tax notice, housing tax and property tax.

Why do I need a NIF in Portugal ?

To purchase a home, lease a flat, or even for services such as broadband or securing a mobile phone plan, a NIF is usually required.

The taxpayer number (also called NIF) allows you to declare to the tax authorities and to the clerk of the commercial court your tax information, and your trade register. Just to name a few situations when you need this tax resident card:

• benefit from a pension, family allowance, a health insurance contract,
• opening a bank account
• getting a phone subscription
• buying property, and often also renting property long term
• making an investment into Portugal to apply for the Golden Visa
• signing up for utilities
• get Portuguese citizenship
• …

You also avoid double taxation for your main residence, whether or not you are the actual beneficiary.

Even as a non-resident, potentially before relocating to Portugal, you might need a NIF. For instance, when applying for certain residency visas like the D7, many consulates demand both a NIF and a Portuguese bank account.

How to Get a NIF if you are a EU/EEA resident

(e.g. you are a resident in any of the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.)

Get a NIF in person in Portugal

You can request your NIF physically in Finanças or a Loja do Cidadão office in Portugal**. This is the standard method but it is also tedious** and you have to speak Portuguese. You will have to take an appointment on the phone and they usually don't speak English.

Get a NIF online

If you are a European resident, you can assign a fiscal representative to do your request on your behalf. You can use services on the Internet to request your NIF number in Portugal online, and they will assign you a fiscal representative, so you don’t even have to know someone in Portugal.

To do so, you will need to complete a form, and then send your identification (ID card, passport) and a proof of address from your origin country, and then they will obtain a NIF in Portugal on your behalf. From this point on, reliable websites will send you your NIF document by email, as a PDF.

Required documents

To get your NIF number you must have a valid identification method (ID card, passport) and a proof of address (not necessarily in Portugal).

How to Get a NIF if you are not a EU/EEA resident

(e.g. you are resident in the USA, Canada, China, United-Kingdom, South Africa, Morocco, Algeria, Pakistan, India, Switzerland, Turkey or any other country not in the EU/EEA countries detailed above)

Get a NIF in person in Portugal

If you don't reside in an EU/EEA nation, acquiring a NIF typically requires a fiscal representative. This can be someone you know like a friend or relative. However, if you're unfamiliar with anyone in Portugal, you'll likely need the services of a legal firm or company to assist you in obtaining a NIF. A bonus of employing such services is the convenience of acquiring your NIF number online, which saves you the hassle of waiting in line at a Finanças office in Portugal.

Get a NIF online

Whether you are a resident of Brazil, United States of America, or even China, you can request a NIF online, but only by having a Portuguese resident request it on your behalf. Currently, we can help you to obtain your NIF number, by acting as your fiscal representative, and request the NIF on your behalf. You will need to send a copy of your passport, a proof of address from your origin country (translated in latin alphabet), and complete a short form, and then they will send it back to you through email.

It is the simplest way to get a NIF in Portugal while not being in Portugal, it costs an administrative fee to process your application, but it’s the most convenient way to obtain a NIF online.

Required documents

To get your NIF number you must have a valid identification method (ID card, passport) and a proof of address (not necessarily in Portugal).

If your documents are in a language other than Portuguese or English, you may be asked to provide a certified translation.

What is a fiscal representation and do I need one ?

Fiscal representation refers to appointing an individual or entity to act on your behalf in tax-related matters in Portugal, particularly when obtaining a Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF). If you're not a resident of an EU/EEA country and are looking to get a NIF in Portugal, you typically need a fiscal representative. This representative can be someone you trust, like a family member or friend residing in Portugal. However, for many newcomers, utilizing the services of a law firm or specialized company is a practical solution. Not only ensures compliance with Portuguese tax regulations, but many of these services also offer the convenience of securing your NIF Portugal number online, bypassing the need for in-person visits to local Finanças offices.

If you are a non-EU/EEA resident seeking a NIF through Anchorless, we will serve as your fiscal representative. This ensures a hassle-free NIF application process and to get it in the best delays.

How long does it take to get a NIF online ?

Obtaining a Número de Identificação Fiscal online in Portugal can vary in duration depending on several factors. Typically, when using a dedicated service or platform, you can expect to receive your NIF Portugal number within 5 to 10 business days. However, it's essential to have all required documents readily available and to ensure that the application is filled out correctly. Delays can occur if there are discrepancies in the information provided or during peak application times. It's always recommended to apply well in advance and to use reputable online services to streamline the NIF Portugal acquisition process.

What is the Price to get a NIF in Portugal ?

The price can vary in cost based on the method and service you choose. If you decide to deal directly with a lawyer, you may find yourself paying around 300 euros. It's essential to be cautious, as there's a risk of being overcharged.

On the other hand, if you're brave enough to navigate the process at the Finanças offices in Portugal, obtaining a NIF can be a challenge due to potential language barriers and bureaucracy, but it can also be done for free.

Now, for those seeking a more streamlined and reliable process, going online is a fantastic alternative. With Anchorless, the process is simplified. For a fee of just €99, you can ensure that your NIF application is correctly and fully processed. Once completed, Anchorless will send your NIF number directly to your email, saving you time and potential hassles. It's an efficient and cost-effective way to secure your NIF Portugal number without the typical challenges.