If you are planning to live, work, study, or invest in Italy, you will need a Codice Fiscale. It is one of the most important identification numbers for both Italians and foreigners.
What Is Codice Fiscale?
Codice Fiscale is Italy’s tax identification number.
It is issued by the Italian Revenue Agency, called the Agenzia delle Entrate.
The Codice Fiscale is used to identify individuals for:
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Tax purposes
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Legal matters
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Administrative procedures
It is required for almost every official activity in Italy.
What Does Codice Fiscale Look Like?
The Codice Fiscale is a 16-character alphanumeric code.
It is generated using:
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First and last name
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Date of birth
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Place of birth
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Gender
Example format:
RSSMRA85T10H501Z
Each part of the code represents personal information. It is unique and permanent.
Why Is Codice Fiscale Important?
You need a Codice Fiscale for almost everything in Italy.
Common uses include:
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Signing an employment contract
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Opening a bank account
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Renting or buying property
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Enrolling at a university
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Registering for healthcare
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Signing utility contracts (electricity, gas, internet)
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Receiving salary
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Paying taxes
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Starting a business
Without it, you cannot complete most legal or financial transactions.
Who Needs Codice Fiscale?
You need a Codice Fiscale if you are:
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A foreign worker
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An international student
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A business owner or freelancer
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A property buyer
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A family member joining someone in Italy
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A non-resident with financial interests in Italy
Both EU and non-EU citizens require it if they have economic or administrative activities in Italy.
Is Codice Fiscale the Same as a Residence Permit?
No. They are different.
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Codice Fiscale → Tax identification number
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Permesso di Soggiorno → Residence permit
The residence permit allows you to legally stay in Italy. The Codice Fiscale identifies you in the tax and administrative system.
How to Apply for Codice Fiscale
You can apply in two main ways:
1. Apply in Italy
You must visit a local office of the Agenzia delle Entrate.
You need:
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Valid passport
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Visa (if required)
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Residence permit (if available)
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Completed application form
In cities like Rome or Milan, appointments may be required.
In many cases, the Codice Fiscale is issued immediately.
2. Apply Through the Italian Consulate
You can request it from an Italian consulate in your home country before moving to Italy.
Is Codice Fiscale Mandatory for Work in Italy?
Yes.
Employers need your Codice Fiscale to:
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Register you for payroll
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Pay social contributions
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Report income to tax authorities
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Register you with social security
Without it, you cannot legally work.
Does Codice Fiscale Expire?
No.
The number is permanent and valid for life.
However:
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Your residence permit may expire.
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Your visa may expire.
The Codice Fiscale remains the same.
Can You Open a Bank Account Without Codice Fiscale?
In most cases, no.
Italian banks require it to:
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Open an account
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Issue a debit or credit card
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Process salary payments
Codice Fiscale vs VAT Number (Partita IVA)
These are different:
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Codice Fiscale → For individuals
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Partita IVA → For businesses and freelancers
If you start a business in Italy, you may need both.
Key Takeaways
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Codice Fiscale is Italy’s tax identification number.
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It is required for work, study, banking, and property rental.
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It is issued by the Agenzia delle Entrate.
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It is permanent and valid for life.
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It does not replace a residence permit.
If you are helping workers, students, or families relocate to Italy, securing a Codice Fiscale is one of the first and most important administrative steps.