France Tax ID: What It Is, How to Find Yours, and Application Process

In France, every taxpayer has a unique identifier for tax matters. For individuals, this is the French TIN: a 13-digit personal tax ID. Businesses use numbers like the SIREN (9-digit company ID) or VAT number. This guide explains what a French Tax ID is, who needs it, how to find it, and why it’s important.

Key Takeaways

• The French Tax ID (numéro fiscal) is a 13-digit identifier assigned to each taxpayer for all tax procedures.
• For companies, the equivalent tax identifier is the 9-digit SIREN number (which also appears in the VAT number).
• You’ll find your Tax ID on official tax documents (income tax return or tax notices) or in your online tax account.
• Foreign residents earning income in France must obtain a Tax ID (numéro fiscal) when they file taxes.

What Is a Tax ID in France?

The Tax Identification Number (TIN) for individuals in France is called the numéro fiscal de référence (or numéro d’identification fiscale). It’s a 13-digit number (often starting with 0–3) that uniquely identifies a taxpayer in the French system. The numéro fiscal appears on all tax correspondence and must be used for filings, such as on your annual income tax return or any avis d’imposition.

For companies, the tax ID is the SIREN number (9 digits). The SIREN identifies the legal entity itself. Companies also receive a VAT number: “FR” followed by two check digits and the SIREN. In general, the SIREN is treated as the company’s tax ID for registration and filings.

Who Needs a Tax ID in France?

Having a French Tax Identification Number (Numéro Fiscal or NIF) is mandatory for anyone with tax obligations or income sources in France. It applies to residents, non-residents, business owners, and property holders connected to the French tax system.

You need a French Tax ID if you are:

• A French resident: living in France for more than six months or earning income locally
• A non-resident: owning property or receiving rental, business, or investment income from France
• A business owner: operating a registered company or engaging in taxable commercial activity
• A foreigner in France: with residence, employment, or taxable assets
• A property owner: automatically registered when property tax is issued
• A student or temporary worker: earning income subject to French tax

Where Can You Find Your France Tax ID?

Your French Tax Identification Number (Tax ID or NIF) is issued by the French Tax Administration (DGFiP) and can be found on various official tax documents or online once you’re registered in the French tax system.

Here’s where you can find it:

1. On Your Tax Return:  Your tax ID appears at the top of the first page of your income tax declaration under the heading “Tax Identification Number.” This document is generated each year when you file your taxes.

2. On Your Tax Assessment Notice:  Your tax number can be found on the first page of your tax assessment notice under the “References” section. This applies to income tax, property tax, and other local tax notices.

3. On Property Tax Bills:  If you own or rent property in France, your tax ID is printed at the top of your property tax bill or housing tax notice.

4. In Your Online Tax Account: Visit impots.gouv.fr and log into your personal account (Espace Particulier). Your tax number is displayed in your profile section once logged in.

5. On Correspondence from the Tax Office: Any official letters or emails you receive from the French Tax Administration include your tax number near your personal details or reference information.

How to Get a Tax ID in France?

Applying for France Tax ID is slightly different for residents and non-residents. Here is what you should follow as per your requirement

Steps for Residents

1. Determine your eligibility - You need a tax ID if you are a resident, earn income, or own property in France.
2. Have copies of your ID (passport or residence permit), proof of address (utility bill or lease), and proof of income ready.
3. Submit Form 2042 (Cerfa n°2042). This form is used by new residents filing for the first time.  Download Form 2042 from impots.gouv.fr
4. Send your completed form and documents to your local tax office.  Find your local tax office
5. Once processed, you’ll receive your 13-digit numéro fiscal by post or email, typically within a few weeks.

Steps for Non-Residents

1. Identify your tax obligations - You need a tax ID if you earn French income or own property in France.
2. Prepare copies of your passport, proof of foreign address, and details about your French income or property.
3. Complete your tax return using Form 2042 and, if required, Form 3916/3916-BIS for foreign bank accounts.
4. Send your forms and documents to the Service des Impôts des Particuliers Non-Résidents (SIPNR):
   • Address: 10 rue du Centre, TSA 10010, 93465 Noisy-le-Grand Cedex, France
   • Email: tax4business@dgfip.finances.gouv.fr
   • Phone: +33 1 72 95 20 42
      Visit impots.gouv.fr Non-Resident Services
5. After verification, your tax ID will be issued by email or post.

France Tax ID for Businesses

Every business operating in France must have the following set of official identification numbers issued by the French authorities.

1. SIREN Number:  The SIREN (Système d’Identification du Répertoire des Entreprises) is a 9-digit unique identifier assigned by INSEE when a business registers in France. It identifies the legal entity and remains the same throughout the life of the business.
2. SIRET Number:  The SIRET (Système d’Identification du Répertoire des Etablissements) is a 14-digit number that includes the SIREN plus a 5-digit establishment code (NIC). Each branch or office of a company has its own SIRET.
3. VAT Number:  Businesses carrying out transactions within the EU need a VAT number, which follows the format: FR + 2-digit control key + 9-digit SIREN (e.g., FR12 345678901). This number is crucial for cross-border invoicing, VAT declarations, and validation through the VIES (EU VAT Information Exchange System).
4. Issuing Authority:  All these identifiers are managed by INSEE and the DGFiP (Direction Générale des Finances Publiques) during company registration or VAT setup.

Why Is the France Tax ID Important?

The French Tax Identification Number (numéro fiscal) is crucial because it links every individual or business to the Direction Générale des Finances Publiques (DGFiP). 

Your tax ID allows you to:

• File and manage taxes: It’s mandatory for submitting income tax returns, paying property taxes, and accessing online tax services.
• Access official records: All tax notices, such as your avis d’imposition, display your tax number.
• Ensure compliance: Without a tax ID, you cannot legally fulfill your French tax obligations.
• Simplify administration: It helps streamline dealings with public authorities, property transactions, and financial institutions.

Common Issues with Tax IDs in France

• Confusing identifiers: Don’t mix up different numbers. The French tax ID (numéro fiscal) is not your social security number. For companies, the SIREN is used as a tax ID (not the SIRET or VAT number). Always use the correct one.
• Lost number: If you can’t find your numéro fiscal, check past tax forms or log into impots.gouv.fr. You can also call or visit your local tax office to retrieve it.
• Not registered: If you moved to France and never filed taxes, you may not have a numéro fiscal. Apply via the tax office to get one. The same applies if you suddenly have a tax obligation (inheritance, etc.).
• Foreign language documents: If your documents are in another language, the tax office may ask for certified translations (especially for legal documents like articles of association).

Conclusion

France’s Tax ID for individuals and SIREN for companies are essential identifiers for all tax dealings. They appear on tax filings, notices, and many official documents. Make sure to obtain your number as soon as you have any French tax obligation and keep it secure. It will make communications with DGFiP seamless and ensure your tax compliance goes smoothly.