Codice fiscale
Also known as: Italian tax code, fiscal code
The codice fiscale is a 16-character alphanumeric code identifying an individual to the Italian tax system — the equivalent of a personal tax/ID number, derived from your name and date and place of birth. It's required for almost any official or financial act in Italy, from opening a bank account to signing a lease.1
What this means for you
You need it before almost anything else — including opening a partita IVA. Foreigners can request one from the Agenzia delle Entrate, an Italian consulate abroad, or when they obtain a residence permit.
Common questions
What is a codice fiscale?
It is a 16-character personal tax code identifying you to the Italian tax system, derived from your name and date and place of birth — required for almost any official or financial act in Italy.
How does a foreigner get a codice fiscale?
Foreigners can request one for free from the Agenzia delle Entrate, an Italian consulate abroad, or when they obtain a residence permit.
Is a codice fiscale the same as a partita IVA?
No. The codice fiscale is your personal tax ID; the partita IVA identifies your business. You need a codice fiscale before you can open a partita IVA.
Related terms
Sources
Every figure on this page is grounded in primary sources — the same standard as the TaxCompass chat. This is sourced orientation, not tax advice.