There are several administrative tasks that anybody must complete before moving to Portugal, whether it is on a Digital Nomad Visa or a Retirement Visa. However, arguably the most important step before even applying for any kind of long-term visa is getting a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF).
Thankfully, you don’t have to brave Portuguese bureaucracy yourself to get a NIF. Anybody living outside the country must appoint a fiscal representative to apply for a tax identification number, and this is where GetNIF Portugal makes it easy.
In this review, we’ll take a look at what GetNIF Portugal offers, how it compares to other service providers, and what it costs to use them.
First Impressions
GetNIF Portugal is a service provider that acts as your fiscal representative. By signing up for the service, you appoint them as your financial representative so they can apply for your NIF on your behalf.
The first thing that you’ll see on the homepage is a bold claim that going through them is “the easy way to get a Portuguese NIF.” Scrolling further down, you’ll come across the typical sales pitches to sell the service, including convenience, reliability, and security.
It also provides a clear timeline for the process, from signing up to getting your document. Granted, many other NIF providers also highlight this, but GetNIF Portugal additionally compares using their service to going it alone.
However, when you look at the general content of the GetNIF Portugal website and weigh it up against competitors, there is a glaring difference.
Many other websites simply brush over important aspects such as tax responsibilities in getting a NIF and how the process differs depending on your citizenship and residency status. GetNIF Portugal addresses all these issues up front and in an extensive FAQ section reiterating many of the points already covered.
How the Process Works
Using a service provider to get a NIF in Portugal is one of the easiest ways of doing it. In the case of GetNIF Portugal, this is done in two steps. The first is to place your order on the website (you can’t miss the “Order Now” buttons as they are everywhere), and should take about five minutes.
You have the option to bolt on the additional service of opening a bank account (for an extra fee), but that takes a bit longer. If you just want a NIF, it will cost you €120 and includes 12 months of fiscal representation.
You’ll then receive an email with instructions on uploading the required documents through an encrypted and secure file-sharing platform and signing the Power of Attorney.
Once that is complete, GetNIF Portugal goes to work behind the scenes and if all your documents are in order, you’ll receive your NIF confirmation in about seven to 10 days by email.
Rating the Service
The application process for getting a Portuguese tax identification number through GetNIF Portugal is incredibly easy — exactly what they promise on the tin. However, getting an NIF can take longer than advertised.
While a few days isn’t a big deal, considering that you don’t have to deal with Portugal’s Tax Authority yourself, other clients have waited longer.
Surprisingly, the company has only three reviews on Trustpilot, with one client saying, “It took a while, but we got our NIF in the end.” Another exclaimed that they have been waiting for over three weeks.
To be honest, though, complaining about Portuguese bureaucracy is like trying to nail jelly to the wall. People are quick to assume that once they have applied for something on a third-party website, it is only that party’s responsibility.
While delays may or may not happen on GetNIF Portugal’s side, is hard to tell. But even if you know very little about Portuguese government departments, you’ll know that they aren’t fast.
Those complaints might have been isolated cases, as GetNIF Portugal proudly displays a banner indicating that it has already delivered more than 1,100 NIFs and helped over 1,000 people open bank accounts.
That’s not bad as far as we are concerned, and we’re confident in rating GetNIF Portugal’s service four out of five. The website is easy to navigate, it’s packed with useful information, and the signup form is a breeze to complete.
Frequently Asked Questions About GetNIF Portugal
What is a NIF and why do I need one?
Your Portuguese tax identification number is a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal). You need it for virtually any official or financial activity in Portugal—from opening a bank account and signing a rental contract, to setting up utilities or enrolling in school.
How does GetNIF Portugal’s service work?
- You place your order via the online form.
- You upload and sign the required documents (ID, proof of address, Power of Attorney).
- GetNIFPortugal submits everything to the Portuguese tax authorities on your behalf.
- You receive your NIF by email (usually within 7–10 days).
What documents do I need to apply?
- A scanned, signed copy of your passport or national ID.
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement issued within 90 days).
- A signed Power of Attorney (template provided by GetNIFPortugal).
- Additional requirements apply for minors or non-EU nationals (e.g., visa copy).
Can non-EU citizens apply through GetNIFPortugal?
Yes. Third-country nationals can apply online; you simply upload your passport, entry visa or residence permit, proof of overseas address, and sign a Power of Attorney. GetNIFPortugal also arranges a Portuguese fiscal representative if required.
Do I need a fiscal (tax) representative?
EU citizens: Not required, but you may appoint one if you prefer.
Non-EU citizens: It is recommended (and sometimes required) that you act as your local contact with Finanças; GetNIF Portugal can provide this for €120 per year.
How long does it take to receive my NIF?
Typically, it takes seven to ten business days after document submission. Delays can occur if Finanças is backlogged, but GetNIFPortugal will keep you updated throughout.
What does the service cost?
The basic NIF application fee (transparent pricing on their site) is included in your order. If you choose postal delivery of the physical tax card, there’s a separate € 6.80 government fee.
Can I apply if I don’t have a Portuguese address?
Absolutely. Whether you’re applying pre-arrival, buying property, or making a one-off investment, you can still obtain a fully valid NIF without a local address.
Can I get NIFs for my family or group?
Yes. The same online form accommodates multiple applicants—each person just needs to provide their own documents and Power of Attorney signature.
What happens after I receive my NIF?
You’ll get:
- Your nine-digit NIF.
- Login credentials for the Finanças Portal (to view and manage your tax affairs.
You can open bank accounts, sign contracts, file taxes, and more from there.