How to Set Up a Personal Tax Account as a Non-Resident in France

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A tax number in France (numéro fiscal) is a unique 13-digit identifier assigned to individuals for tax-related purposes. This number is required to declare income, pay taxes, and access online tax services through the official French tax portal. If you are a non-resident, obtaining and setting up a personal tax account is essential to manage your tax obligations in France.

How to Access Online Tax Services in France

Each taxpayer, including non-residents, must use their tax number in France to log into their personal account. Members of the same tax household can access online services independently, using their individual tax numbers to declare income or check their tax situation.

Steps to Create Your Personal Tax Account as a Non-Resident

If you are a non-resident and have not yet set up a personal tax account, follow these steps:

1. If You Have a Tax Number in France and Are Liable for Income Tax

You can create your account using three key identifiers from your tax documents:

  • Tax Number (Numéro Fiscal): A 13-digit number found on the first page of your latest income tax return and other official tax documents.
  • Online Access Number: Located on the first page of your most recent tax return. This number changes annually, so always use the latest version.
  • Reference Taxable Income: Displayed on your most recent tax assessment notice, typically in the “Vos références” (Your References) section. If not found there, check the “Informations complémentaires” (Additional Information) section.

2. If You Do Not Have These Details

You may still apply for a personal tax account if:

  • Your income is subject to withholding at source, or
  • You have a tax number in France but are not required to pay income tax (e.g., you only pay residence tax on a second home or property taxes).

To proceed, complete an application on the impots.gouv.fr website and provide:

  • Your full name and marital status,
  • Your foreign postal address, and
  • A copy of an official identification document.

3. Account Activation and Login

Once your identity is confirmed, you will receive an email enabling you to finalize your account setup. To activate your account:

  1. Enter your tax number in France and date of birth on the login page.
  2. Set up a password and provide an email address.
  3. Click on the activation link sent to your email within eight hours to complete registration.

Important Considerations for Non-Residents

⚠ First-Time Tax Filers: If you are declaring income or assets in France for the first time, you cannot complete this process online. Instead, you must download the appropriate tax return form from impots.gouv.fr and mail it to the relevant tax office.

🔒 Password & Security: Your chosen password will be used for future logins. If you forget your tax number in France or password, you can retrieve them via SMS by updating your mobile number in your account settings.

Why Is a Tax Number in France Important?

A tax number in France is necessary for:

  • Filing tax returns and managing payments,
  • Accessing tax-related documents online,
  • Applying for tax benefits or exemptions,
  • Complying with French tax laws as a resident or non-resident.

By ensuring you have an active tax account, you can efficiently manage your fiscal obligations and avoid potential tax issues in France.