Can children or dependents have their own NIF?

Children or dependents under 16 in Portugal cannot have their own NIF but can be included under a parent or guardian's NIF, linking their tax obligations to the parent or guardian.

Yes, children or dependents can have their own Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF) in Portugal. Here’s how it works:

1. Eligibility for NIF for Dependents

  • Children and Dependents: NIFs can be issued to minors (children) and dependents for various purposes, such as opening a bank account, enrolling in school, or for tax and financial transactions.

2. Application Process

  • Documents Required: To obtain an NIF for a child or dependent, you will need to provide certain documents. These typically include:

    • Birth Certificate or other proof of identity for the child or dependent.
    • Identification of the Parent or Legal Guardian: The parent or guardian must provide their own NIF and identification, such as a passport or identity card.
    • Proof of Address: Documentation showing the current address of the parent or guardian.
  • Applying In-Person: You can apply for a NIF for a child or dependent by visiting a local Serviço de Finanças office. In some cases, you might also need to make an appointment.

  • Online Application: In some situations, it may be possible to apply for a NIF for a child or dependent through the Portuguese tax authority's online portal (Portal das Finanças), but this often requires a parent or guardian to initiate the process.

3. Usage of NIF

  • Tax Purposes: The NIF for dependents can be used for tax-related matters, such as claiming tax benefits or deductions.
  • Administrative and Financial Transactions: It is also used for various administrative tasks and financial transactions, like setting up a bank account or registering for school.

Summary

Children and dependents can have their own NIF in Portugal, which is useful for various administrative and financial activities. To obtain one, you’ll need to provide necessary documents and possibly visit a local tax office or use the online portal, with a parent or guardian involved in the process.