What is a Codice Fiscale and why do I need one for anything I do in Italy?

If you are carrying out any kind of business in Italy, you will be required to obtain a Codice Fiscale (tax code). This is a series of 16 characters and numbers associated with your surname and name initials, your date and place of birth.
As an Italian citizen, you receive your Codice Fiscale after the parents complete the Birth Declaration, and the information has been sent directly to the Italian Revenue Office. As soon as the parents get back home with their new born baby, there sitting in the post will be the baby’s tax code, though the baby can still barely open its eyes.
Obviously, holding an Italian tax code will not imply any tax duties.
You can apply for an Italian Codice Fiscale personally, for free, from any local Agenzia delle Entrate or through a representative that must have the power to apply for it on your behalf. In the event that you need a VISA to travel to Italy, you will also be required to have a VISA to apply for the Codice Fiscale.
Should you wish, you can obtain an Italian Codice Fiscale also by applying with the Italian Consular Office or Embassy for free.
If you are starting a case, you are obliged to obtain an Italian Codice Fiscale, so make sure you grant your lawyers the power to apply for it and collect it if you are not dealing with this aspect yourself.
Should you need further information, please check with our lawyers by using the form below.