The route can differ by status, location and whether you are already in an immigration process. Confirm it with the public authority.
Your checklist
First steps
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A personal tax identifier
The Codice Fiscale identifies people in Italian tax and administrative systems. The Revenue Agency explains the official request routes.
The responsible office can vary
Foreign applicants may be directed to different public offices. Confirm the current route for your residence and status.
Check your personal details before reusing the code
The Codice Fiscale is linked to identity details used in tax and administrative records. Compare the assigned certificate with your passport or identity document, especially if names were transliterated or include several family names.
If an office says the data do not match, or the certificate appears to contain an error, ask the Agenzia delle Entrate how to verify or correct the record. Keep the existing certificate and identity documents; do not apply for a second code through a private service.
The request route depends on your situation
The Revenue Agency describes different routes: Italian residents abroad can ask an Italian diplomatic-consular office; many foreign nationals receive a tax code through the immigration one-stop shop during entry procedures or through the Questura as part of a residence-permit process. Check which authority handles your case before applying, and keep your assigned code rather than requesting a second one.
Common questions
Does the code let me live or work in Italy?
No. It is an identifier, not a visa or residence or work permit.
Can I request it before arriving?
Some applicants can use an Italian consulate abroad. Check the Agency’s instructions for your case.
Does my Codice Fiscale change when I move to another Italian city?
No. It is a personal identifier, not a code issued for one address. Keep using the number already assigned to you; update your residence with the relevant authorities and contact the Agenzia delle Entrate if the records do not match.
What if the spelling or date on my certificate is wrong?
Contact the Agenzia delle Entrate through its official channels and ask how to verify or correct the record. Have the assigned certificate and identity documents ready, and avoid requesting a duplicate number through a private website.
Where should a foreign national request a Codice Fiscale?
The route depends on the case. The Revenue Agency says many foreign nationals receive the code through the immigration one-stop shop during entry procedures or through the Questura during a residence-permit process. Residents abroad have a separate consular route. Confirm with the responsible authority before applying.
Official sources
Read this first
- Italian Revenue Agency: tax code and health cardOfficial tax agency information
- Agenzia delle Entrate: request a tax code or duplicateOfficial service overview; routes vary between residents abroad and foreign nationals.
Rules can vary by nationality, work or study status, and city. Confirm your route with the official authority before you act.