Italy · Codice fiscale
How to get your codice fiscale (Italian tax code)
The codice fiscale is the code Italy uses to identify you for almost everything, from a rental contract to a phone line. Foreigners request it at the Agenzia delle Entrate with form AA4/8, by appointment.
What it is
The codice fiscale is a 16-character code made from your name, date and place of birth. You need it to sign a rental contract, open a bank account, get a phone contract, start a job, register with the health service and much more. It's free and it never changes.
Do you need this guide?
- Coming to Italy to work as a non-EU citizen? Your codice fiscale is often assigned during your work-permit or residence-permit process. Check your documents first.
- Still abroad? Many Italian consulates can issue one before you travel.
- Already in Italy without one? Follow this guide.
Before you start
You'll need:
- Your passport (non-EU citizens: with your visa, where one is required) or EU identity card. A valid Italian residence permit also works.
- Form AA4/8, filled in. You can also fill it in at the office.
- An address where the card with your code can be sent.
Steps
- Book an appointment at any Agenzia delle Entrate office (ufficio territoriale). For a first codice fiscale you must go in person, so the office can check your identity.
- Fill in form AA4/8 with your details exactly as in your passport, and the address where your code should be sent.
- Go to your appointment with your passport (or ID) and the form.
- Get your code. The office usually gives you a printed certificate with your code on the spot. Keep it until the card arrives.
- Wait for the card. A plastic card (often combined with the health card, tessera sanitaria) is posted to you later.
Cost
Free.
Common pitfalls
- Name differences. Your code is built from your name exactly as on your passport. Use the same spelling on every Italian document.
- Going without an appointment. Most offices only see people who booked.
- Expecting a health card. Getting a codice fiscale doesn't register you with the health service. That's a separate step at your local health authority (ASL).
- Two codes. If one was already assigned (for example by a consulate), don't request another. Ask the office to look it up.
When to ask a helper
If your passport and other documents show your name differently, or you were given two different codes, ask someone who's sorted out the same problem.
Spot a mistake?
Rules change and offices differ. If something here is wrong or out of date, tell us and we'll check it.