Foreigners who want to move to Portugal or buy property in Portugal must get a Portuguese taxpayer number called NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal). This number allows foreigners to perform legal activities or conduct business in Portugal. Everybody can get a NIF number in Portugal, but understanding the four different ways to obtain the number is crucial.
What is NIF in Portugal?
NIF, which stands for Número de Identificação Fiscal, is the Portuguese personal tax identification number. This nine-digit number is used for official business transactions and issued by the Portuguese tax authorities. Even foreigners temporarily living in Portugal should apply for the NIF, as it gives them many benefits.
How much does an NIF cost?
Obtaining a NIF in Portugal is free for citizens of Portugal and other EU countries. Those who want a Portuguese tax card can buy one for only €6.80 ($7.41).
Who needs a NIF number?
All people, both EU and non-EU citizens, who are living in Portugal must have an NIF number, although this isn’t required by Portuguese law. A NIF can also be issued to foreigners who are not tax residents in Portugal. With an NIF, you can perform certain operations in Portugal, such as buying property, getting a loan, starting a business, or opening a bank account.
The NIF can also be used to pay for purchases at online stores, supermarkets, hairdressers, etc. The NIF will be printed on the check, and the transaction cost will be sent to the Portuguese tax office. Sometimes, part of the paid income tax can be refunded when the NIF is used for making payments.
Take the first step towards obtaining your Portuguese NIF by clicking the button below and completing the process online. For only $150, you can easily acquire your NIF and enjoy the benefits it offers.
How do I get an NIF in Portugal?
There are four ways to get an NIF in Portugal as a foreigner. EU and non-EU citizens can obtain a Portuguese NIF in four methods.
1. In person at the Portuguese tax office
EU citizens and citizens of non-EU countries can apply for NIF registration in person at a branch of the Portuguese tax office (Financas or Loja do Cidadão). All relevant documentation must be submitted in the presence of their tax agent. It takes roughly 30 minutes to complete a NIF application at the tax office. Here, you will find the Portuguese tax offices’ locations and opening hours.
2. By email
Several tax offices have accepted online applications by email since the COVID-19 pandemic. Applicants can send an email (written in Portuguese) to the branch of choice, including the completed application form and necessary documents. Here, you will find the branches of the tax office and their corresponding email address.
3. Through a lawyer or tax representative
Those who are not in Portugal can choose to obtain an NIF in Portugal through a lawyer or tax representative. Using a power of attorney, which the foreigner provides, the tax agent will compile and submit all the paperwork to the tax office. Another advantage of using a tax agent is their knowledge of the Portuguese tax system, which might be hard to understand for foreigners. A tax agent in Portugal costs about €1,000 ($1,090) per year on average.
4. Through a friend
A tax representative can also be a resident. Think about a friend or a real estate agent who is helping you with the purchase of real estate. They must also identify their Portuguese address on the NIF registration application and submit the necessary paperwork on the international applicant’s behalf. On this website, residents can apply for a NIF number in Portugal on the foreigner’s behalf. Be aware when using a local friend because not all residents know the local tax laws and regulations. A mistake made by someone else can have significant financial consequences
5. Through an online service
If you are in Portugal or outside the country, you can acquire your NIF online, without leaving your place. This service is available for only $150, which offers you various benefits. Once you fill in your details, you can expect your Portugal NIF within a week. Many people receive their NIF within just a few days. To start the process of obtaining your Portugal NIF, click on the button below.
Required documents for NIF registration
There is little documentation required to acquire an NIF in Portugal. You will need to provide the following documents:
- Picture ID (or a scanned, signed copy if you are using a lawyer or representative)
- Non-EU citizens have to present their passport
- EU citizens can present a passport or citizen’s identity card
You must present evidence of your residence address if you apply for an NIF in Portugal. The proof might be anything from a utility statement to a rental contract. Applying for NIF in Portugal from abroad is possible by permitting a lawyer or tax representative to act on their behalf. You can do this by submitting a document signed by an attorney.
How to start paying taxes in Portugal
NIF holders don’t have to pay tax in Portugal if they don’t live here permanently. A Portuguese residency permit is required for those who want to stay in Portugal for more than 183 days per year and want to change their tax residency to Portugal. This residency visa can be obtained in several ways, including working for a local company, studying at a local university, marrying a Portuguese citizen, and investing in Portuguese real estate. Foreigners who want a residency permit by buying property in Portugal can apply for the Golden Visa program. Therefore, they must invest at least €500,000 ($545,000) in Portuguese real estate.
A Portuguese resident visa gives the holder the right to live, work, conduct business, and study in Portugal. The holder can also travel without a visa to Schengen countries and the United Kingdom. They can apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years of having a residence visa.
People with an NIF number and Portuguese residency visa have a personal account on the Portuguese tax service website, where they can file their tax reports and pay taxes in Portugal.
When should you file and pay your taxes in Portugal?
Make sure to file the tax returns before the first of April. Failure to file a tax return might result in a fine ranging from €200 ($218) to €2,500 ($2,725). Failure to meet tax payment deadlines may result in a penalty of up to 10% of the outstanding amount but no more than €55,000 ($59,950).
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the NIF number in Portugal?
The NIF number in Portugal, also known as the Número de Identificação Fiscal, is a unique taxpayer identification number assigned to individuals, companies, and entities for tax and administrative purposes. It is a crucial identifier for conducting various financial and legal transactions in Portugal.
How to get NIF in Portugal online?
Getting NIF in Portugal online by emailing the nearest Portuguese tax office branch is possible. Applicants should write their email in Portuguese and attach the completed application and all necessary documents. You will find a map with all branches and their email addresses here.
How do you apply for an NIF number in Portugal online?
You can apply for an NIF number in Portugal online by emailing the closest Portuguese tax office branch. Ensure the email is written in Portuguese, and the completed application and all necessary documents are attached. You will find a map with all branches and their email addresses here.
Who can get a Portuguese taxpayer number?
A Portuguese taxpayer number (NIF) is available to various individuals and entities, including residents, non-residents, Portuguese citizens, and foreign nationals. It is typically required for multiple purposes, such as employment, tax obligations, property ownership, or business activities in Portugal. The specific eligibility criteria for obtaining a Portuguese taxpayer number may vary based on the individual’s circumstances and the purpose for which it is required.
