The French tax number (numéro fiscal) is essential for filing income tax returns, accessing online tax services and completing many administrative procedures. For foreigners newly arrived in France, obtaining one can be complex. Here is how to proceed in 2026.
What is the numéro fiscal?
The numéro fiscal is a 13-digit identifier issued by the French tax authority. It appears on your tax assessment, income tax return and correspondence from the tax office. Distinct from your social security number, it is used exclusively with the Direction Générale des Finances Publiques (DGFiP).
How to get your numéro fiscal for the first time
If you have never filed a tax return in France, you must contact the Service des Impôts des Particuliers (SIP) for your area by registered post with acknowledgement of receipt (LRAR). Your request must include a valid identity document, proof of address less than 3 months old, and a letter explaining your situation. FrenchDesk generates this letter in 30 seconds with exact legal references.
Deadlines and online alternative
The SIP has a legal deadline of 30 days to assign you a tax number. In practice, the delay is often 2 to 4 weeks. If you are employed, your employer can also make the request via the DSN. Since 2025, it is possible to create an account on impots.gouv.fr before having a tax number to start the online procedure.
What to do if your request goes unanswered
If you have not received your numéro fiscal within the 30-day legal deadline, send a follow-up letter by LRAR to the SIP. State your original application date, the receipt reference number, and formally request your tax number within 8 days. FrenchDesk can help you draft this follow-up letter.