The Codice Fiscale is the most important personal code in Italy. It is a unique alphanumeric identifier, similar to a tax code or social security number.
It is required for almost every official activity—from renting an apartment to opening a bank account, or even signing up for a gym membership.
How the Code is Made
The code is generated from:
- Letters from your first and last name
- Numbers from your date of birth
- A letter representing your birth month
- Digits identifying your place of birth
The result is a 16-character string that is unique to you.
Codice Fiscale and the Tessera Sanitaria
Once you register with Italy’s national healthcare system, you receive a Tessera Sanitaria (health insurance card). On this card, your Codice Fiscale is printed clearly on the front.
This often creates confusion: the Tessera Sanitaria is a healthcare card, while the Codice Fiscale is the underlying personal code. You may be asked for the code in situations unrelated to healthcare (like opening a bank account). In practice, people often just show their health card because it conveniently displays the code.
👉 See also: What is Tessera Sanitaria
When You Need It
Foreign residents and Italians alike need a Codice Fiscale to:
- Sign contracts (rental, utilities, employment)
- Open a bank account
- Access healthcare services
- Enroll in schools or universities
- Deal with tax obligations
Where to Get It
The Agenzia delle Entrate (Italian Revenue Agency) issues the Codice Fiscale. Foreign residents can apply in person at the local office, usually with a passport and proof of residence. In some cases, it can be requested directly through an Italian consulate abroad.
Practical Tips
- Carry a photocopy or a digital version on your phone—it’s requested often.
- If you lose the card, you can request a duplicate from the Agenzia delle Entrate.
- Many property transactions and official registrations will not even start until you present your Codice Fiscale.