Italian Tax Code: what it is and what it is used for

In Italy, every person must be uniquely identified when dealing with public bodies and administrations. For this purpose, there is the codice fiscale, an alphanumeric code made up of 16 characters, created based on an individual’s personal data. It could be described as a sort of “administrative fingerprint,” essential even for the simplest everyday activities: from registering with the national health service to opening a bank account, or even signing an employment or rental contract.

The codice fiscale is assigned to all individuals, but also to organizations and entities other than natural persons operating in Italy. For citizens who are entitled to healthcare services and are enrolled in the National Health Service (SSN), this code appears on the Health Card (Tessera Sanitaria), a now-familiar document also used in pharmacies or for medical services. Those who do not have access to the SSN simply receive a card that displays their tax code and certifies its assignment.

The issuance of the codice fiscale takes place in different ways depending on the applicant’s situation. For newborns, the process is automatic: at the time of their first registration with the municipal population registry (Anagrafe), through the National Register of the Resident Population (ANPR), the code is generated and the first health card — valid for one year — is sent directly to their home. This method is fast and fully integrated with birth registration procedures.

Foreign nationals who come to Italy for work or family reunification can obtain the tax code at the Single Immigration Desks (Sportelli Unici per l’Immigrazione) that handle their entry applications. For those applying for or renewing a residence permit for other reasons (e.g., elective residence or study), the Questura (police headquarters) is responsible for assigning the code. There are also cases involving Italian citizens living abroad: in such situations, the tax code can be requested at the Italian diplomatic or consular offices in the country of residence.

If a person does not have a codice fiscale and needs to apply for one directly, they can contact the Italian Revenue Agency (Agenzia delle Entrate). If the request concerns a minor, a parent must submit the application on their behalf.

Once the procedure is completed, a certificate of assignment is issued, which serves as a temporary document while waiting to receive the Health Card or the Tax Code Card.

In conclusion, the codice fiscale is a fundamental element of the Italian administrative system: it is not just a sequence of letters and numbers, but the key to access public services and to obtain official recognition as a citizen within society. Having one’s tax code means, ultimately, being fully present and recognized by the State and being able to carry out any bureaucratic or healthcare-related activity necessary in everyday life.

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The content of this article is intended to provide general information on the topic. For doubts or specific cases, it is advisable to seek specialized legal advice tailored to your particular situation.