How to Register Your Business Activity with the Portuguese Tax Authority

Starting a business in Portugal requires registering your activity with the Portuguese Tax Authority. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the process, whether online or in person.

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How to register

Start Your Business in Portugal: A Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Business Activity

You can start your business activity in Portugal by submitting a declaration of commencement either online or in person.

Menu

Online

1. Log in to the Portal das Finanças.
2. From the main page, click on “Todos os Serviços.”
3. Select “Início de Atividade.”
4. Click on “Entregar declaração.”
5. On the new page, click “Entrega de Declaração de Início de Atividade.”
6. Fill in the declaration form. Some fields will be pre-filled, but you must complete the mandatory fields, including:

 • Enter the CAE (Economic Activity Classification Code).

 • Specify the expected start date in the “Dados Relativos à Atividade Esperada” section.

 • In the “IVA” (VAT) subsection, enter the estimated business volume (in euros) for the year for VAT and income tax purposes.

 • In the “IVA” subsection, check “No” for Annex E if you do not engage in activities listed in Annex E (e.g., waste, recyclable scrap, certain services).

 • In the “Tipo de Operação” section, indicate whether your activities are eligible for VAT deduction.

 • Provide your IBAN and BIC/SWIFT for any VAT and income tax refunds.

7. After filling out the form, click “Validar” to validate the information.
8. A pop-up window will summarize your data. If everything is correct, click “Ok.”
9. Submit the declaration by clicking “Submeter.”

In Person

1. Visit a local finance office.
2. Provide all the required information for the start of activity declaration.
3. Once the data is entered into the system, you will receive a document confirming the start of your activity.
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