What is a Codice Fiscale?

September 18, 2026 12:08 PM - Comment(s) - By Jacqueline Nobile

And Why Do I Need It?

Codice Fiscale is the Italian equivalent of a tax code, and sometimes referred to as a tax identification number, or fiscal code. It has a similar function to a US Social Security Number or a UK National Insurance Number. 


The Codice Fiscale is a 16-character code consisting of letters and numbers. Each individual’s code is unique as it is generated directly from one’s first, middle, and last name, gender, date of birth, and place of birth. The Agenzia delle Entrate (the Italian Revenue Agency) is responsible for issuing most codici fiscali, but in the case of those living abroad, the Italian consulate or embassy where you are a permanent, legal resident should issue your codice fiscale.

Unfortunately, what used to be a minor piece of the puzzle for those seeking Italian citizenship, an Italian visa, or to purchase property in Italy, has now become a major roadblock. Since COVID, Italian consulates and embassies across the world have been flooded with requests for citizenship, visas, and of course, codici fiscali. Many consulates kick the task back to the Agenzia delle Entrate even though the requests are coming from their own jurisdiction and not from within Italy. In response, the Agenzia delle Entrate kicks the request back to the consulates, all the while putting the querent in the middle to run back and forth in an endless loop, where no one claims responsibility. 

But it’s not only the consulates that cause bureaucratic overwhelm for the Agenzia. Within Italy, local Questura processing permesso di soggiorno applications are the technical authority responsible for issuing the codice fiscale to approved permesso holders. Even local Italians request their newborns codice fiscale from their local comune, but even so, the sheer volume of requests from non-residents is enough to overwhelm the administrations of the Agenzia delle Entrate, global consulates and embassies, and even the local Questura.

Recently, the issue has become even more troublesome for those hoping to apply for jure sanguinis in Italy via residency. Despite the codice fiscale being a prerequisite in order to register a lease in Italy (a necessary step in the application process), the vital tax codes are no longer being issued to applicants making the move abroad. The only way out of the catch 22 is by completing Modello 69 and submitting it to the Agenzia along with your lease. The new rules will only allow a codice fiscale to be issued to jure sanguinis applicants after they become recognized citizens.


In the meantime, without the Italian tax code, it is nearly impossible to:

                    •  Open an Italian bank account.
                    • Rent or buy a property.
                    • Set up utilities.
                    • Open an Italian mobile phone line.
                    • Sign an employment contract.
                    • Pay Italian taxes.
                    • Register for Italian healthcare.
                    • Conduct legal matters in Italy.

Don't let the bureaucratic hurdles of obtaining an Italian tax code delay your plans. Contact us for personalized assistance and let us help you secure your codice fiscale.


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Jacqueline Nobile

Jacqueline Nobile

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