People searching for a “VAT ID Portugal” are usually looking for one of three things: the format, the difference from the NIF, or how to check a number on an invoice. This guide covers the three.
What is the format of a Portuguese VAT number?
It is the country prefix PT followed by nine digits, written without spaces. Those nine digits are the same as the taxpayer’s NIF, if the taxpayer is an individual, or the NIPC, if it is a company. The last digit is a check digit. You can test a number’s format with the NIF format validator.
Is a NIF the same as a VAT number?
The digits are the same, but the status is not. The NIF identifies you as a taxpayer. Being a VAT taxpayer means you are registered for VAT, which normally happens when you start a business activity with the Tax Authority. A private person with only a NIF is generally not VAT-registered, and their number will not be found in VIES.
How do you check a Portuguese VAT number?
- Write the number as PT plus the nine digits.
- Check it in VIES, the European Commission’s tool for validating EU VAT numbers.
- If it is not found, the number may be wrong, or the business may not be registered for VAT yet, or only recently registered.
When do you need a VAT number in Portugal?
When you carry out a business activity subject to VAT, for example invoicing clients as a freelancer or a company, you register for VAT with the Tax Authority. A non-resident outside the EU may also need a tax representative in Portugal for these obligations. Rules depend on the activity, so confirm with an accountant. For a personal NIF only, see when a fiscal representative is needed.
Do you need a NIF before you can register for VAT?
Yes. The NIF (or the company’s NIPC) comes first. If you are abroad, you can get a personal NIF without travelling: see the NIF online service.
Frequently asked questions
What is the format of a Portuguese VAT number?
PT followed by nine digits, with no spaces. The digits are the NIF of an individual or the NIPC of a company.
Is my NIF my VAT number?
The digits are the same, but you are only a VAT taxpayer if you are registered for VAT. A private person with a NIF is generally not.
How do I check a Portuguese VAT number?
Use VIES, the European Commission’s validation tool, with the number written as PT plus nine digits.
Why is a valid NIF not found in VIES?
Because VIES lists VAT-registered taxpayers. A NIF alone, or a very recent registration, may not appear.
Do I need a NIF to register for VAT in Portugal?
Yes. The NIF, or the company’s NIPC, comes first.
Keep reading
Follow our guides on Google: add NIF Express as a preferred source
