How to get a NIF in Portugal as an American

If you're planning to open a bank account, buy property, or do virtually anything related to financial transactions in Portugal, you'll need a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal). This is Portugal's tax identification number, and you can't complete most transactions without it.

Americans often wonder how to get a NIF in Portugal, whether they need to apply in person, and what the process involves. In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know, including how to apply for a NIF number while you're still in the US.

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What is a NIF number in Portugal?

A NIF is a nine-digit tax identification number issued by the Portuguese Tax Authority (Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira). It's similar to a Social Security Number or Tax ID in the US, but you'll use it for tax and legal purposes in Portugal.

Once issued, your NIF stays with you permanently.

You need a NIF to handle almost any official business in Portugal, such as:

• Opening a Portuguese bank account
• Buying or selling property
• Signing rental agreements
• Registering for utilities (electricity, water, or internet)
• Getting a mortgage in Portugal
• Getting a mobile phone contract
• Paying taxes in Portugal
• Applying for residency visas (D7, Golden Visa, Digital Nomad Visa)
• Starting a business or working in Portugal
• Buying a car

Without a NIF, you're essentially locked out of Portugal's financial and legal system. So, if you're thinking of moving to Portugal or are just starting to settle in, you'll want to get a NIF as soon as possible.

Step-by-step process for getting a NIF number as an American

Applying in person at a tax office

If you're already in Portugal, you can visit a local tax office (Finanças) and get your NIF issued on the spot. To do that, follow these steps:¹

1. Find your nearest tax office
2. Call 217 206 707 to schedule an appointment (walk-ins may be accepted, but appointments are recommended)
3. Bring your valid US passport
4. Provide a Portuguese address
5. If you don't have permanent residency in Portugal, you'll need to designate a fiscal representative
6. Complete a simple declaration form
7. Get your NIF number

This process is usually pretty fast and completely free. The tax office staff will give you a document with your NIF printed on it, and you'll be all set.

Applying through a fiscal representative

Many Americans apply for a NIF remotely through a fiscal representative. This is the most convenient option if you're still in the US or simply don't want to deal with Portuguese bureaucracy.

Follow these steps:¹

1. Find a fiscal representative (this can be a Portuguese lawyer, accountant, or special NIF service like Bordr)
2. Provide them with a copy of your US passport
3. Sign a power of attorney authorizing them to act on your behalf
4. The representative submits your application online through the eBalcão system
5. They authenticate using their Portuguese Digital Mobile Key, Citizen's Card, or Tax ID credentials
6. Your NIF is issued
7. The representative sends your NIF number to you

Using a fiscal representative typically costs 50 to 150 EUR, depending on the service. Some representatives also charge an annual fee to continue serving as your fiscal representative.²

Can you get a NIF from the US?

Yes, you can get a NIF without traveling to Portugal.

The easiest way is to hire a fiscal representative who will handle the process for you. You'll just need to send them all of the necessary documents, such as a copy of your passport, and they'll submit your application to the Portuguese tax office.

You don't need to be in Portugal, and you don't need Portuguese residency to get a Portuguese NIF.

Different types of NIF

Portugal issues individual NIFs for people and corporate NIFs for businesses.

As an American buying property, opening a bank account, or handling personal finances in Portugal, you'll get an individual NIF.

The number stays with you permanently and works the same whether you're a resident or non-resident. The only difference is that as a non-resident, you'll need to appoint a fiscal representative to receive tax correspondence on your behalf.

Processing times for getting a NIF number in Portugal as an American

Getting a NIF is a pretty fast process.

If you apply in person at a Portuguese tax office, you get your NIF immediately. If you apply through a fiscal representative, it'll take a few days to get approved.³

FAQ

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

Applying for a NIF at a Portuguese tax office in person is free. You don't pay any government fees.¹

If you use a fiscal representative to apply remotely, the representative's service fee typically ranges from 50 to 150 EUR. Some representatives also charge annual fees to continue serving as your fiscal representative if you're a non-resident.²

Does getting a NIF make you a tax resident?

No, getting a NIF doesn't make you a tax resident of Portugal. The NIF is just an identification number you use for transactions, such as opening a bank account.

You become a tax resident in Portugal only if you spend more than 183 days in the country during a calendar year or establish your habitual residence there.³

How long does it take to get a NIF number in Portugal?

If you apply in person at a tax office in Portugal, you get your NIF immediately during your appointment. If you apply through a fiscal representative, it'll take a couple of days.³

Can I get a NIF without living in Portugal?

Yes, you can get a NIF without living in Portugal or even visiting the country. Many Americans obtain their NIF from the US by working with a fiscal representative who submits the application online.

Do I need a fiscal representative in Portugal?

As an American (non-EU citizen), you're legally required to appoint a fiscal representative when applying for a NIF if you don't have Portuguese residency. The fiscal representative is a Portuguese resident or company authorized to receive official tax correspondence on your behalf.

Once you become a Portuguese tax resident, you can typically remove the fiscal representative and receive correspondence yourself.

You can get a NIF in Portugal by applying in person or through a fiscal representative. The process is quick, the cost is minimal, and you don't need to live in Portugal or have residency there.

Once you have your NIF, you can open bank accounts, buy property, and handle any other financial transactions you need in Portugal.

If you're thinking of moving to Portugal or have just recently made the move, it's important to consider how you'll transfer money between the US and your new home.

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Sources

1. Government of Portugal - Applying for a taxpayer identification number (NIF) for a natural person
2. Idealista - How to get a NIF in Portugal
3. Maravista - How to Get a NIF in Portugal

Sources checked 03/26/2026