How to Get Your NIF in Portugal: A Complete Guide for Remote Workers

Moving to Portugal or living here as a remote worker means navigating new systems. One of the first and most important steps is getting your NIF, the Número de Identificação Fiscal. Without it, you cannot open a bank account, sign a lease, or even apply for your visa. This guide cuts through the confusion, offering clear steps and current rules for remote professionals.

What is a NIF and why do you need it?

A NIF is Portugal’s nine digit tax identification number. It is also called a Número de Contribuinte. This number is essential for almost every financial, legal, and administrative action you will take in Portugal. Think of it as your personal identification for all official matters.

You need a NIF for many reasons, including:

• Opening a Portuguese bank account.
• Signing a rental agreement or buying property.
• Applying for any type of visa or residency permit.
• Registering as a freelancer or starting a business.
• Setting up utility services like electricity, water, and internet.
• Getting a phone contract.
• Paying taxes and receiving tax benefits.

Without a NIF, you cannot legally operate as a resident, open a Portuguese bank account, or register for social security or tax residency.

Who needs a NIF in Portugal?

Anyone who plans to live in Portugal, engage in financial activities, or have tax obligations here needs a NIF. This applies whether you are a Portuguese citizen, an EU citizen, or a citizen from a non EU country. Even if you are not yet a tax resident, you will need a NIF to interact with Portuguese systems.

Portuguese citizens usually receive their NIF automatically when they get their Cartão de Cidadão (Citizen Card). Foreigners, however, must apply for it.

How to get your NIF: In person versus remote

There are two main ways to get your NIF: in person or remotely. Each option has different requirements and timelines.

Getting your NIF in person

This is often the fastest and cheapest way if you are already in Portugal. You can visit a Finanças office (the Portuguese tax authority) or a Loja de Cidadão (Citizen Shop).

In most cities as of mid 2025, you now need to book an appointment in advance by calling 217 206 707 (in Portuguese). Walk-ins are rare in large cities like Lisbon or Porto but might still work in smaller towns if you go early.

• Who can use this: Anyone physically present in Portugal. EU citizens can often get it immediately and for free. Non EU citizens will need to pay a small fee, typically €10.20.
• Steps:
  1. Find the nearest Finanças office or Loja de Cidadão. Smaller towns may have shorter lines.
  2. Bring all required documents.
  3. Take a ticket (senha) and wait for your turn. Arrive early, especially in larger cities like Lisbon or Porto, as queues can be long.
  4. Submit your documents and pay any applicable fee.
  5. You will receive your NIF on an A4 paper, which is immediately valid.

Getting your NIF remotely

This option is best if you are outside Portugal and need your NIF before you arrive, for example, for a visa application or to open a bank account.

• Who can use this: Non residents, especially those applying for visas like the D7 or Digital Nomad Visa from their home country.
• Steps:
  1. You will need to appoint a fiscal representative (see the next section for details).
  2. Your fiscal representative will submit your application on your behalf through the Finanças e balcão portal. Note that the e balcão portal is primarily in Portuguese.
  3. You will send your documents (passport, proof of address, and a power of attorney if required) to your fiscal representative.
  4. The process typically takes 1 to 2 weeks, though some providers report faster turnarounds of 1 to 3 business days for standard cases. Delays up to 2 weeks are possible if documents need review or if the tax office requests more information.
• Cost and Scope: Remote NIF services typically charge between €69 and €150. These services are generally reliable for obtaining a NIF and initial fiscal representation. However, they usually do not handle ongoing tax filings or provide full tax advice. For tax declarations or complex situations, you will need a separate accountant or tax lawyer.
• If you decide to use an agency, search for “Portugal NIF service” or “Portugal fiscal rep for NIF.” Look for clear pricing, no hidden annual fees, fast delivery of your Finanças password, and easy cancellation terms.

Understanding the Fiscal Representative (FR) rules for 2025

A fiscal representative is an individual or company with a Portuguese tax address who acts as your point of contact with the Portuguese tax authorities (Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira). They receive official correspondence on your behalf and ensure you meet your tax obligations.

Who needs a fiscal representative?

• Non EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens who have financial ties or tax obligations in Portugal: If you own property, earn income, or have a bank account in Portugal, you are legally required to appoint a fiscal representative. This must be done within 15 days of establishing such a connection.
• Non EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens with no tax obligations: As of July 2025, if you are a non EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen and have no property, no income, and no freelance or business activity in Portugal, you may be exempt from appointing a fiscal representative. This exemption only applies if you activate electronic notifications (“dematerialized notification channels”) on the Finanças portal.
• Important: Even if the law says you may skip a fiscal representative, many tax offices still ask for one in practice. This especially happens if your documents are incomplete or if they are unsure about your situation. When in doubt or if you plan to open a bank account, it is safer to appoint a fiscal representative.
• If you plan to earn income, own property, or have other tax obligations, a fiscal representative is still strongly recommended for compliance and to avoid missed deadlines or fines. Most remote workers will fall into the category that requires a fiscal representative.
• EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens: You are generally not required to have a fiscal representative. However, if you are applying for your NIF remotely from outside Portugal, you will still need someone (a fiscal representative) to submit the application on your behalf.

Responsibilities of a fiscal representative:

• Receiving and managing tax correspondence.
• Helping you handle tax payments and fines.
• Assisting with claims, appeals, and disputes related to your taxes.
• Keeping you informed about tax related matters.

How to choose a good fiscal representative

Look for fiscal reps who:

• Respond within 48 hours
• Have clear terms of service
• Let you cancel easily when no longer needed
• Charge under €100 for basic NIF + fiscal rep service
• Provide clear contact details and service terms in writing

Removing or changing a fiscal representative:

Once you become a tax resident in Portugal and register a Portuguese address with Finanças, you can dismiss your fiscal representative. The process can be slow and bureaucratic, often taking several weeks. You can request the change of address and removal of your fiscal representative at a Finanças office or through the e balcão portal. Many users report that removing or switching fiscal representatives can be a time consuming and frustrating process, especially if you are not in Portugal or your current representative is unhelpful.

Important Warning: If your fiscal representative is slow to respond or does not forward your Finanças password or official tax letters, it is crucial to address this immediately. Tax letters often have a 10 to 15 day response deadline, and missing these can result in fines.

Documents you will need

The documents required depend on your citizenship and whether you are applying in person or remotely.

• For all applicants:
  • Valid passport or EU identification document.
  • Proof of address: This can be a utility bill, bank statement, or a rental contract. For non residents, this can be your foreign address. If you are applying for a NIF with a Portuguese address, you will need proof of that address.
• For non EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens:
  • Your fiscal representative’s identification and proof of address, along with their acceptance of the appointment.
  • A power of attorney (procuração) if your fiscal representative is applying on your behalf remotely. This document may need to be notarized.
  • If your passport does not include a visa for Portugal or the Schengen Area, you may need to present your visa separately.

Always bring original documents and several copies. Some offices may require certified copies.

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What happens after you get your NIF?

Receiving your NIF is just the first step. Here is what comes next:

• Finanças password: After your NIF is issued, you will need a password to access the Portal das Finanças online. This password is sent via postal mail to the address registered with your NIF, which is often your fiscal representative’s address if you applied remotely. This password is crucial for managing your tax obligations, submitting declarations, and accessing electronic notifications. Make sure you get this password from your fiscal representative.
• Tax residency: Getting a NIF does not automatically make you a tax resident in Portugal. You become a tax resident when you register a Portuguese address with Finanças and meet the residency criteria (e.g., spending more than 183 days in Portugal in a calendar year). Once you change your NIF address to a Portuguese one, the authorities will consider you a tax resident, which means you will be subject to Portuguese taxes.
• Bank account opening: With your NIF, you can proceed to open a Portuguese bank account. However, as of 2025, it has become much harder for non EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens to open a bank account without a residence card. Most major banks now require a Portuguese residence permit or proof of a scheduled AIMA appointment. Some banks like Caixa Geral and Nickel may be more flexible, but expect to provide additional documents or proof of your AIMA appointment. The process can be inconsistent across branches, so be prepared for potential delays and requests for more documents. If blocked, ask for the manager. If that fails, file a complaint with Banco de Portugal, it works.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Incomplete documents: Missing a single document or having uncertified copies can cause significant delays or rejection of your application.
• Unresponsive fiscal representative: If you use a fiscal representative, ensure they are reliable and responsive. An uncooperative representative can block your access to important tax communications and your Finanças password.
• Not understanding the fiscal representative exemption: Many remote workers mistakenly believe they do not need a fiscal representative if they activate electronic notifications. Remember, this exemption only applies if you have no tax obligations or financial ties in Portugal. Most remote workers earning income or owning property will still need one.
• Overpaying for NIF services: While online services offer convenience, be aware of the fees. Getting a NIF in person is free or costs a small fee. Online services charge for their assistance and fiscal representation. Compare prices and ensure you understand what is included.
• Assuming NIF equals tax residency: This is a common misunderstanding. Your NIF is an identification number. Your tax residency status depends on where you live and your financial ties.

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FAQ

Q: Can I get a NIF without a Portuguese address?
A: Yes, you can use your foreign address. But if you are a non EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen with financial ties in Portugal (like property, income, or a bank account), you will still need a fiscal representative.

Q: Does my NIF expire?
A: No. Your NIF is permanent and cannot be canceled once issued.

Q: Can I share a NIF with my spouse or family?
A: No. Every person needs their own NIF.

Q: Is the NIF a physical card?
A: No. It is issued on an A4 paper or just as a number. The old NIF cards are no longer given out.

Q: What is the difference between a NIF and a NISS?
A: The NIF is your tax ID. The NISS is your social security number, used for work, social contributions, and public healthcare. You usually need a NIF before getting a NISS.

Q: How long does it take to get a NIF?
A: In person, it can be immediate if you have an appointment. Remotely, it takes a few days to two weeks depending on the service and tax office.

Q: Can I get my NIF while still abroad?
A: Yes. You can apply remotely through a fiscal representative.

Q: What if my fiscal representative disappears or is unresponsive?
A: You can switch to a new one or remove them if you become a tax resident. The change is done at Finanças or through e-Balcão. It can take 2 to 6 weeks. Have your documents ready and escalate if needed.

References

1. Governo de Portugal. (n.d.). Pedir o número de identificação fiscal para pessoa singular.
2. Governo de Portugal. (n.d.). Como pedir o NIF e o NISS para pessoas estrangeiras em Portugal.