NIF Portugal explained: What it is and how to get yours quickly

For anyone planning to move to Portugal, start a business, invest, or spend an extended period in the country, obtaining a NIF in Portugal, also known as Portugal’s tax identification number, is an essential first step. 

Without an NIF, many common activities and legal processes in Portugal are not possible, making it one of the most important documents to secure early on.

In this article, we will explain what a NIF Portugal is and why it matters, then walk you through the exact process of applying for one. 

You will also learn about the required documents, timelines, and costs, along with practical tips and a look at services like Touchdown that can make the process quicker and more convenient.

What is NIF in Portugal?

The Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF) is Portugal’s taxpayer identification number, used by both residents and non-residents for tax and legal purposes. It is a nine-digit personal identifier issued by the Portuguese Tax Authority (Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira).

Who needs an NIF and when?

An NIF is essential for anyone planning to live, work, or carry out financial activities in Portugal. For expats, this is often one of the first steps in settling into the country, as it is required for many everyday services and legal matters. 

While short-term visitors may not need one, anyone with ongoing or significant financial involvement in Portugal will find it indispensable.

Common situations where you need a valid NIF:

• Renting or buying property

• Starting a business or working as a freelancer

• Paying taxes or receiving income in Portugal

• Signing an employment contract

• Opening a bank account

• Registering for utilities like electricity, water, or internet

• Getting a mobile phone plan

• Making investments, including Golden Visa applications

Getting an NIF early on helps avoid delays and ensures a smooth experience when setting up life or business in Portugal. It serves as a crucial connection to the Portuguese tax system and is a key part of establishing a financial and legal presence in the country.

How to get NIF in Portugal?

Getting an NIF can feel like a big task at first, but it’s actually a straightforward process once you know the steps. Whether you apply in person, handle it remotely, or use a professional service like Touchdown to get your NIF, the key is being prepared with the right documents and knowing what to expect.

Here’s how to complete the process smoothly and avoid common delays.

Decide how you want to apply

The first thing to determine is where and how you’ll apply for your NIF.

• In person: Visit a local Finanças office (Portuguese tax office) or a Loja do Cidadão. This is free but often involves long wait times, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto.

• Via a representative or service: If you are not in Portugal or prefer to avoid the hassle, you can appoint a fiscal representative or use a professional service like Touchdown, which will handle the entire process on your behalf.

Gather the required documents

Prepare the necessary paperwork. These documents must be valid, clear, and, if required, translated into Portuguese.

• Personal details: Full name, marital status, place of birth, nationality, current address, passport number, and passport expiry date.

• Valid ID: A clear copy of your passport (including the signature page). EU/EEA citizens can use a national ID card instead.

• Proof of address: 

• Non-residents: A recent bank statement or utility bill (issued within the last three months) showing your full name and address in your home country. 

• Residents: Portuguese address proof, such as a rental agreement or local utility bill.

• Residence permit: Required if you are living in a country different from the one on your passport.

Pro tip: Always carry originals and copies. If your documents are not in Portuguese, confirm whether an official translation is needed.

Visit the Finanças Office (if applying in person)

If you are physically in Portugal:

• Locate the nearest Finanças office or Loja do Cidadão using Google Maps.

• Arrive 30–45 minutes before opening hours to minimize wait times.

• Take a ticket when you arrive; the label might say Número de Contribuinte instead of NIF.

• Submit your documents and explain that you are applying for a new NIF.

• The process is free for EU/EEA citizens and costs a 

Most applicants receive their NIF on the spot, printed on an A4 sheet. Keep this paper safe, as you will need it for future registrations like opening a bank account.

Get your NIF remotely with Touchdown (fast and easy option)

If you’re abroad or simply want to avoid long queues, Touchdown’s NIF service is a convenient alternative. Our team handles the entire process remotely using a secure power of attorney, so you never need to set foot in a Finanças office.

Here’s how Touchdown can help you secure your NIF:

• Purchase the service online (1 minute): Pay securely using a credit card, debit card, or bank transfer.

• Submit your documents (5 minutes):  Upload a copy of your passport and proof of address electronically.

• Document verification (5 minutes): Touchdown’s legal team reviews your documents and prepares a digital power of attorney signing.

• Wait for your NIF (generally within 48 hours): Their team collects the NIF on your behalf and keeps you updated on progress.

This option is especially useful for expats and non-EU citizens, as it removes the need for a fiscal representative or travel to Portugal.

Receive your NIF

Once your application is approved:

• In person: You receive your NIF immediately, printed on a document.

• Via Touchdown or representative: It will be sent to you digitally, and sometimes by mail if requested.

Register on the Portal das Finanças (optional but recommended)

After receiving your NIF, you can register online at the Portal das Finanças, Portugal’s official tax platform. This allows you to:

• Manage tax obligations digitally

• Update personal information

• Receive notifications electronically (instead of relying on a representative).

How much does it cost to get a NIF number in Portugal?

Applying for a NIF in Portugal is completely free when you do it yourself at a Finanças office. There are no government fees involved, and you’ll receive your number on the spot. The only additional expense might be for translating or documents if required.

Costs come into play if you use extra services. Hiring a fiscal representative can range from €50 to over €1,000 per year, depending on the provider and your tax situation. While you can appoint a friend or acquaintance for free, it carries risks if they miss important tax notices. 

For a faster and simpler process, services like Touchdown offer a one-time fee option to handle the entire NIF application remotely, making it ideal for expats or those applying from abroad.

Common mistakes to avoid when applying for an NIF

Applying for an NIF Portugal is a straightforward process, but small errors can cause delays or even rejection of your application. Being aware of common pitfalls will save you time, money, and stress.

Submitting incorrect or outdated documents

Your NIF application can be delayed or rejected if your documents are expired, unclear, or incomplete. Make sure you have:

• Personal details: Full name, marital status, place of birth, nationality, address, passport number, and validity date.

• Key documents:

• Valid passport (including the signature page)

• Proof of address with your full name, issued within the last three months

• Residence permit, if you live in a country different from your passport country

All documents must be clear, up to date, and, if needed, officially translated into Portuguese. Always keep originals and copies on hand.

Ignoring translation and notarization requirements

If your documents are in a language other than Portuguese, they may need to be officially translated and notarized before submission. This step is crucial, especially for non-EU applicants or when dealing with complex legal matters. 

Submitting untranslated or uncertified documents can lead to delays or outright rejection of your application.

While many Finanças offices will accept documents in widely spoken languages like English, French, or Spanish, certain situations require extra care. For example, if you are buying property, setting up a business, or completing legal contracts, a certified Portuguese translation is almost always mandatory. 

Similarly, documents issued in languages less common in Portugal, such as Arabic, Russian, or Chinese, will almost certainly need both translation and notarization.

Arriving unprepared at Finanças

Finanças offices can be very busy, particularly in Lisbon, Porto, and other large cities.

• Arrive 30–45 minutes before opening time to reduce waiting.

• Bring both original documents and copies to avoid last-minute issues.

• Make sure you take the correct queue ticket, which may be labeled Número de Contribuinte.

Using your NIF after you get it

After you have started using your NIF, it becomes a key part of many important steps when setting up life or doing business in Portugal. 

Here’s how you’ll use it and how Touchdown can help you make the most of it.

Opening a Portuguese bank account

A bank account is essential for managing everyday expenses, paying rent, and handling investments. Almost every Portuguese bank will require your NIF to open an account.

Touchdown can assist you in setting up a Portuguese bank account, making the process easier and ensuring all required documents are in order. This is especially helpful for expats applying remotely or those unfamiliar with Portuguese banking procedures.

Signing a lease or utility contract

Whether you’re renting an apartment or setting up services like electricity, water, or internet, you’ll need to provide your NIF.

Touchdown offers rental contract review services, helping you understand the terms of your lease before signing. This gives you peace of mind and protects you from unfavorable clauses, especially if you’re new to Portuguese legal processes or the local rental market.

Setting up online access to Portal das Finanças

The Portal das Finanças is Portugal’s official tax platform. Once you have your NIF, you can create an account to:

• File taxes in Portugal or check your tax status

• Receive digital notifications directly

• Update your personal details securely

Having an online account also means you can reduce your dependence on a fiscal representative over time.

Linking your NIF to investments and Golden Visa applications

For those investing in Portugal, especially through the Golden Visa program, your NIF is required for all financial transactions. It’s essential for purchasing property, setting up a business, or managing tax obligations tied to your investment.

Once you’ve started using your NIF, it’s common to have questions about your tax obligations, especially if you’re an expat or non-EU citizen.

With Touchdown, you can schedule a consultation with expert tax lawyers who can provide personalized advice, helping you plan ahead and stay fully compliant with Portuguese tax laws.

Note: Your NIF is permanent and does not expire, so it’s important to keep the original document secure. Consider creating digital backups stored safely online or with trusted services, so you always have access when needed.

FAQs about the NIF Portugal

What does NIF mean in Portugal?

NIF stands for Número de Identificação Fiscal, which is the tax identification number or fiscal number in Portugal. It is a unique nine-digit code issued by the Portuguese Tax Authority and is required for many financial and legal transactions.

How do I get a NIF in Portugal as a US citizen?

US citizens can apply for a NIF either in person at a local Finanças office or remotely through a trusted service like Touchdown. You will need a valid passport and proof of address, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement.

Do tourists need a NIF in Portugal?

Most tourists on short visits do not need a NIF for typical travel activities such as staying at hotels, shopping, or dining out. However, if you plan to stay for a longer period or engage in specific activities like renting property, purchasing real estate, or signing contracts, you will need to obtain one. For expats or long-term visitors, getting a NIF early is highly recommended, as it will be required for many essential services and legal processes.