A Codice Fiscale (Tax Code) is an essential document for anyone planning to live, buy property, work, or even just spend an extended time in Italy. It serves as your tax identification number and is required for virtually all administrative tasks, including getting your own phone number. If you’re an American looking to obtain a Codice Fiscale, this guide will walk you through the process and highlight some common challenges.

What is a Codice Fiscale?

The Codice Fiscale is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to individuals in Italy. It is generated based on your name, please and date of birth. It’s used for everything from signing a lease and opening a bank account to paying taxes and accessing healthcare. Think of it as your social security number for Italy.

How to Obtain a Codice Fiscale

There are primarily two ways for Americans to obtain a Codice Fiscale: through the Italian Consulate in the United States or directly in Italy.

Applying Through the Italian Consulate

You can apply for a Codice Fiscale at the Italian Consulate with jurisdiction over your place of residence in the United States.

Here are the general steps:

1. Justification: You will need justification why you cannot do it in Italy.
2. Gather Required Documents: You typically need a valid passport, proof of address, and a completed application form
3. Submit the Application: You can submit your application in person, e-mail or by mail, depending on the consulate’s specific procedures.
4. Wait for Processing: Processing times can vary significantly, and delays are common. It is not uncommon to wait six months to a year for the certificate to arrive.

Common Problems

• Long Delays: Many consulates experience high volumes of applications, leading to extended processing times. It’s not unusual to wait months or even a year or more to receive your Codice Fiscale.
• No Response: Often times the consulate will simply not reply.

Applying Directly in Italy

If you are already in Italy, you can apply for a Codice Fiscale at the Agenzia delle Entrate (Italian Revenue Agency).

1. Visit an Office: Go to the nearest Agenzia delle Entrate office with the required documents (passport, dichiarazione di presenza, visa or Permesso di Soggiorno).
2. Make an appointment before you go.
3. Complete the Application: Fill out the necessary forms before you arrive.
4. Receive Your Codice Fiscale: You will usually receive your Codice Fiscale certificate immediately. Make sure to apply for the “tesserino” it is a green card that is very useful to have.

Navigating Name Conventions

A question often arises concerning the use of “married names.”

• Use Your Passport Name: Unless you were born in Italy, always use the name that exactly matches the name on your passport. Discrepancies can lead to delays and complications.
• Born in Italy: If you were born in Italy but never issued a Codice Fiscale (double check!) you should always use the name on your birth certificate.
• Provide Supporting Documents: If there is a name change due to marriage, bring your marriage certificate as supporting documentation. It is always better if they are apostilled, and translated. But often times offices will accept documents that are not legalized.

How We Can Help

We understand that obtaining a Codice Fiscale can be challenging, especially with potential delays and bureaucratic hurdles. We offer a service to assist you with this process, ensuring a smoother and faster experience. Our services include:

• Document Preparation: Helping you gather and prepare all required documents correctly.
• Application Assistance: If you prefer our English speaking staff can apply on your behalf, saving hours of time and assuring a quick turn around.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you secure your Codice Fiscale efficiently and hassle-free.