The Italian Fiscal Code: A Guide for Foreigners and Residents Abroad

by Adriana ruiz

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If you’re planning to move to Italy or have already settled here, one of the first things you’ll need to know about is the Codice Fiscale. This essential tax code is similar to a social security number and is required for a range of activities, from signing a lease or setting up a bank account, to accessing healthcare or registering for school.

What is the Codice Fiscale?

The Codice Fiscale is a unique identification number assigned to each resident in Italy, whether they are Italian citizens or foreign nationals. It is used by the Italian government for tax purposes and is required for many official processes in Italy. In fact, without a Codice Fiscale, you won’t be able to perform many routine administrative tasks, such as renting a property or even registering for healthcare.

Is the Codice Fiscale issued as a physical card?

No, you simply use the number on the certificate of the tax code assigned to you. The Tessera Sanitaria (Italian Health Card) has replaced the plastic fiscal code card and is issued to those who qualify for National Health Service (SSN, Servizio Sanitario Nazionale) benefits.

How to Apply for the Codice Fiscale

Newborns: In Italy, newborns automatically receive a Codice Fiscale when they are registered in the municipal population registry (Anagrafe). This process takes place through a telematic connection with the Anagrafe Tributaria (Tax Registry) at the local Comune (municipality).

Foreigners: The process differs depending on your status and where you apply from:

∙ At the Immigration Office: Foreigners applying for a visa (whether for work or family reunification) can request a Codice Fiscale directly at the Sportello Unico per l’Immigrazione (One-Stop Immigration Office). When you attend the office for your appointment, you will receive the Codice Fiscale and a certificate confirming the issuance.

∙ At the Questura: Foreign nationals who are already in Italy and need to apply for or renew their Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit) can also apply for the Codice Fiscale through the Questura (police headquarters). The process is done electronically via the Anagrafe Tributaria.

Residents Abroad: If you’re a citizen of a foreign country and you are living abroad, you can still apply for the Codice Fiscale through an Italian consulate in your home country. The consulate will process your request through a telematic link to the Anagrafe Tributaria.

Special Notes on the Codice Fiscale

The Revenue Agency (Agenzia delle Entrate) is the only authority allowed to issue the Codice Fiscale. No third parties, except for Sogei (a state-owned IT company), can create software for calculating the Codice Fiscale or print the official card. Be wary of external companies offering this service for a fee.

A citizen without a fiscal code can request it at any Revenue Agency office, using the AA4/8 form. The request must correctly indicate the personal details and the tax domicile, where the card with the assigned fiscal code will be delivered.

Along with the request, the Italian citizen or a citizen of a European Union state must present a valid identification document. For minors, the request is presented by the parent who shows their own identity document. A citizen from a non-EU country must alternatively present:

∙ A valid passport, with the relevant visa (when required), or another document recognized by Italian authorities

∙ A certificate of identity issued by the diplomatic or consular representation in Italy of the country of origin (with a relevant photo of the interested party)

∙ A valid residence permit

∙ An identity card issued by the municipality of residence.

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Do you need professional assistance with getting your Italian fiscal code?

Feel free to contact us at legal@expatslivinginrome.com. Whether you need help with visas, permits, citizenship, or other essential services, we are here to support you every step of the way. Check out our services here.

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