Portugal NIF registration
Immigrant Invest helps you obtain a Portuguese tax identification number, NIF, so you can open a bank account, rent out real estate, and run a business. We manage the process from start to finish.
5 benefits of professional assistance with NIF registration
1
Time efficiency and convenience
By handling the full procedure and all communication with the Portuguese tax authorities, we help you save time and avoid travelling to Portugal in most cases.
By handling the full procedure and all communication with the Portuguese tax authorities, we help you save time and avoid travelling to Portugal in most cases.
2
Accuracy and compliance assurance
Our lawyers ensure that the application is completed correctly and in line with current Portuguese tax rules. This minimises the risk of delays or rejection.
Our lawyers ensure that the application is completed correctly and in line with current Portuguese tax rules. This minimises the risk of delays or rejection.
3
Up-to-date regulatory knowledge
NIF rules, including fiscal representation requirements, might change. We monitor regulatory updates and apply the latest requirements in every case.
NIF rules, including fiscal representation requirements, might change. We monitor regulatory updates and apply the latest requirements in every case.
4
Language and communication support
All interactions with the tax office are conducted in Portuguese. Our local team removes language barriers and represents your interests before the authorities.
All interactions with the tax office are conducted in Portuguese. Our local team removes language barriers and represents your interests before the authorities.
5
Ongoing tax administration and fiscal representation
If you are required to appoint a fiscal representative, we can act in this role and provide ongoing support with tax notifications and correspondence.
If you are required to appoint a fiscal representative, we can act in this role and provide ongoing support with tax notifications and correspondence.
Who needs a NIF in Portugal?
A Portugal tax identification number, NIF, is required for both individuals and companies that intend to have legal, financial, or economic interactions with Portugal. In practice, it is one of the first administrative steps for anyone planning medium- or long-term involvement with the country.
Individuals
A Portugal NIF is required for those who plan to:
- buy or rent real estate in Portugal;
- open a Portuguese bank account or use local financial services;
- apply for a residence permit, including the Golden Visa or other long-term visas;
- receive income from Portuguese sources;
- register a vehicle, connect utilities, or sign long-term service contracts such as telecommunications or insurance.
Even individuals who do not plan to live in Portugal permanently may still need a NIF to complete a one-off transaction, such as an investment.
Companies
Companies need a Portugal NIF number to perform the following activities:
- register a business or branch in Portugal;
- open a corporate bank account and manage financial operations;
- issue invoices, declare income, and pay corporate taxes;
- hire employees and comply with payroll and social security obligations;
- enter into commercial contracts with Portuguese partners or clients.
Both Portuguese and foreign owned companies must get NIF in Portugal before starting any formal business activity in the country.
Request assistance with obtaining a Portuguese NIF
Required documents for getting a Portugal tax identification number
The exact list of documents depends on the applicant’s status and residence. In most cases, the following are required:
- passport copy;
- proof of address outside Portugal;
- power of attorney;
- details of a fiscal representative if applicable.
Immigrant Invest verifies documents in advance and prepares the power of attorney in the correct format.
Portugal NIF registration process with Immigrant Invest assistance
In Immigrant Invest’s experience, obtaining NIF in Portugal takes around 1—2 weeks. After the application is submitted, the NIF itself is usually issued within a few business days, depending on the tax office.
Immigrant Invest coordinates every step, from consulting on what NIF is to submitting the application and registering you with the Portuguese tax authorities.
1 day
Initial assessment
Immigrant Invest analyses your situation, confirms the appropriate application route, and explains whether fiscal representation may be required at later stages, for example when purchasing property or starting economic activity in Portugal.
≈ 1 week
Document preparation and power of attorney
You provide the required documents. Our team prepares the power of attorney and all application materials in accordance with current Portuguese tax requirements.
1 day
Submission to the Portuguese tax authorities
Our legal representative submits your NIF request to the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority, usually via the Portal das Finanças, or arranges in-person filing when appropriate.
1+ days
NIF issuance
After you receive your tax payer identification number in Portugal, we advise on next steps, including bank account opening, property transactions, and compliance obligations if your tax situation in Portugal changes.
Why choose Immigrant Invest
Immigrant Invest’s experts have in-depth knowledge of Portuguese migration and tax law and work strictly in accordance with current legislation and regulatory requirements.
Our legal team includes members of the Investment Migration Council, the leading global association in the investment migration industry.
Your Immigrant Invest team
Our legal and migration experts support clients throughout the NIF registration process and related procedures in Portugal.
Our clients’ reviews
Names and photos of investors have been changed to comply with non-disclosure agreements.