Clear Answers for Your Move to Portugal

Honest guidance from an English expat on the Silver Coast. No hype. No pressure. Just practical help.

NIF number

Moving to Portugal is exciting. It is also overwhelming.

Visas, taxes, property, banking, healthcare, bureaucracy. The information online is scattered, contradictory and often written by people who have never actually done it.

I have.

I am an English expat living on Portugal's Silver Coast. I work as a property consultant and I help people like you navigate the reality of moving here.

Portugal Unpacked exists because...

Step-by-step process

Biggest worry or frustration people have when dealing with NIF and banking in Portugal? A step-by-step process, requirements and how to apply remotely.

See below for step by step guide

 

After You Get Your NIF

Once you have your NIF:

  1. Memorise it - You will use it constantly

  2. Register on Portal das Finanças - Online tax portal access

  3. Open a bank account - Now possible with your NIF

  4. Keep the document safe - You may need to show it

Your NIF never expires. It remains the same number for life.

 

How I Can Help

I help people obtain their NIF before arriving in Portugal.

My service includes:

  • Acting as your representative

  • Preparing documentation

  • Submitting the application

  • Providing your NIF typically within 2-4 weeks

This removes the complexity and lets you start your Portugal journey prepared.

 

 

Portugal Unpacked

Clear, honest guidance for moving to Portugal. Visa help, property search, NIF and banking assistance from an English expat on the Silver Coast.

How to Get a NIF in Portugal: Complete Guide 2026

What Is a NIF?

NIF stands for Número de Identificação Fiscal. It is your Portuguese tax identification number.

Think of it as Portugal's equivalent to a National Insurance number (UK) or Social Security number (USA), but used more broadly.

Your NIF is a nine-digit number that identifies you to Portuguese authorities, businesses and institutions.

Why Do You Need a NIF?

You need a NIF for almost everything in Portugal:

  • Opening a bank account

  • Buying or renting property

  • Signing utility contracts (electricity, water, internet)

  • Getting a mobile phone contract

  • Buying a car

  • Registering for healthcare

  • Working or starting a business

  • Filing taxes

  • Receiving any official documents

Without a NIF, you cannot function in Portugal. It is the first thing you should arrange.

When Should You Get a NIF?

As early as possible. Ideally before you arrive in Portugal.

Getting your NIF in advance means:

  • You can open a Portuguese bank account before arriving

  • You can sign rental contracts remotely

  • You hit the ground running when you arrive

  • One less thing to do during the stressful first weeks

Many people obtain their NIF months before their move.

Who Can Get a NIF?

Anyone can get a NIF, regardless of nationality or residency status.

You do not need to be living in Portugal. You do not need a visa. You do not need to own property.

Non-EU citizens applying from outside Portugal need a fiscal representative (more on this below).

 

 

The Fiscal Representative Requirement

If you are a non-EU citizen living outside Portugal, you need a fiscal representative to obtain a NIF.

A fiscal representative is a Portuguese resident (individual or company) who acts as your point of contact with Portuguese tax authorities.

Why? Portugal needs someone within the EU to reach if there are tax matters to address.

Once you become a Portuguese resident, you can remove your fiscal representative.

Who Can Be Your Fiscal Representative?

  • A Portuguese friend or contact

  • A lawyer

  • An accountant

  • A specialist NIF service

  • Some relocation consultants (like me)

Professional fiscal representatives typically charge €100-200 for the service, plus annual fees while you remain non-resident.

EU Citizens

EU citizens do not need a fiscal representative. You can apply directly at a Finanças office or through a lawyer without this requirement.

How to Get a NIF: Step by Step

Option 1: Apply in Person in Portugal

If you are in Portugal, you can apply directly at any Finanças (tax office).

What to bring:

  • Valid passport

  • Proof of address in your home country

  • Proof of Portuguese address (if you have one)

  • Fiscal representative documentation (non-EU citizens)

Process:

  1. Visit any Finanças office

  2. Take a ticket and wait

  3. Submit documents

  4. Receive your NIF immediately (usually same day)

Pros: Quick, free, straightforward Cons: Requires being in Portugal, queues can be long, limited English

Option 2: Apply Through a Representative (Remotely)

If you are outside Portugal, you can authorise someone to apply on your behalf.

What you need:

  • Power of Attorney (signed and notarised)

  • Passport copy

  • Proof of address

  • Fiscal representative agreement (non-EU citizens)

Process:

  1. Prepare and sign documents

  2. Send to your representative in Portugal

  3. Representative submits application at Finanças

  4. Receive your NIF (usually within 1-2 weeks)

Pros: No need to travel, done before arrival Cons: Costs involved (representative fees), some paperwork

Option 3: Apply Online

Portugal has introduced online NIF applications through the ePortugal portal.

This option is still developing and may not work for all nationalities or situations.

Check: www.eportugal.gov.pt

Pros: Convenient if it works for your situation Cons: Technical issues common, not available for everyone

 

 

Required Documents

All applicants:

  • Valid passport (photo page)

  • Proof of address in home country (utility bill, bank statement, government letter)

If applying in Portugal:

  • Portuguese address (hotel acceptable initially)

Non-EU citizens applying remotely:

  • Power of Attorney

  • Fiscal representative agreement

Documents may need:

  • Certified translation to Portuguese

  • Apostille (for some documents)

Check current requirements before applying, as these can change.

 

 

Costs

Finanças application: Free

Representative/lawyer fees: €100-300

Fiscal representative annual fee: €50-150 per year (until you become resident)

Document certification/translation: €50-100

Total cost if using a professional service: €150-400

 

 

How Long Does It Take?

In person: Usually same day

Through representative: 1-2 weeks typically

Online: Varies, can be quick or delayed

Plan for potential delays. Start the process early.

 

 

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem: Finanças office does not speak English Solution: Bring a Portuguese speaker or use a representative

Problem: Documents rejected as not recent enough Solution: Use documents dated within last 3 months

Problem: Proof of address not accepted Solution: Use official documents (utility bills, bank statements, government letters)

Problem: Power of Attorney rejected Solution: Ensure proper notarisation and apostille if required

Problem: Cannot find fiscal representative Solution: Use a professional service or contact me for assistance

Changing Your Address

When you move to Portugal, update your address with Finanças.

When you become resident, inform them so you can remove your fiscal representative.

Address changes can be done:

  • In person at Finanças

  • Online through Portal das Finanças

  • Through your representative

 

 

NIF for Spouses and Children

Each family member needs their own NIF.

Children can have NIFs from birth. This is useful for:

  • Bank accounts in their name

  • Healthcare registration

  • School enrolment

Apply for family NIFs together to simplify the process.

Banking Solutions

Opening a bank account in Portugal is essential for your new life. We offer support in choosing the right bank for your needs and guide you through the application process. Overcome language barriers and paperwork hassles with our expert assistance.