Obtaining the Codice Fiscale
By: Bryan Schneider
August 2006
A
codice fiscale is the Italian version of a tax identification number and is
required to purchase some simple items such as a cell phone. If you are moving
to Italy it can be handy to have the codice fiscale before you leave home, and
it is a relatively simple process to obtain one.
As with obtaining a visa you should apply for the codice fiscale from the
consulate* that has jurisdiction over your place of residency. Each consulate¡¯s
web-site may have a slightly different process, but the required documents are
the same: a photocopy of your passport, a copy of your driver¡¯s license, and a
letter requesting the codice fiscale which states your full name, date of birth
and city of birth. I would recommend mailing this request with tracking to your
consulate as this does contain some sensitive information and you want to ensure
it does not go astray.
The consulate will send
you a letter giving you your codice fiscale number and stating that your actual
government card will be issued by the Italian Ministry of Finance from Rome. The
card is green and white, the size of a credit card and contains your name and
codice fiscale number. The letter should arrive in less than 3 weeks while the
actual card may require 2 months, so plan accordingly. This is one of the
easiest documents to obtain from the Italian government.