Most people need a NIF, or Portuguese tax number, before they’re moving to Portugal. But what if you don’t have a Portuguese address yet? Can you get a NIF with a foreign address?
According to Kathleen Lo from Bordr.com, “Yes, you can absolutely get a NIF without having a Portuguese address and can use your residential address outside of Portugal. You always need to present a proof of address when getting a NIF – so if you’re still outside Portugal, then you’ll need to present documentation for where you’re currently residing. Once you move to Portugal and need to update your address to your Portuguese one, you can update your details inside the Portal das Finanças.”
Get a NIF with Bordr.com for just $140.
When to update your NIF to a Portuguese address is a good question to ask your accountant. According to Paula Santos from Tax Team Consulting, updating your NIF to a Portuguese address is usually a sign to Finanças that you now want to be considered a Portuguese tax resident.”
Will having a NIF number at a foreign address make you a Portuguese tax resident? Kathleen Lo says, “If you obtain a Portuguese NIF you won’t automatically have tax obligations in Portugal or be required to file a Portuguese tax return.”
Have more questions about the NIF? Be sure to read our big guide to getting a Portuguese NIF Number.
