I need to get a tax code.
KOH-di-che fis-KAH-le — 'c' before 'e' is soft ('ch'); codice is three syllables with stress on the first.
Use this as soon as you arrive in Italy. The codice fiscale is required for almost everything — opening a bank account, signing a lease, buying a SIM card, visiting a doctor, or starting a job. Apply at the Agenzia delle Entrate.
The codice fiscale is a 16-character alphanumeric code that serves as a personal tax and identification number. Unlike a tax return, you do not file anything to get one — you simply apply at the Agenzia delle Entrate (Revenue Agency) or Italian consulate abroad. It is issued the same day or sent by post.
Dove posso richiedere il codice fiscale?
Where can I apply for a tax code?
Richiedere (to request/apply for) is the correct formal verb for official applications.
Mi serve il codice fiscale per aprire il conto in banca.
I need the tax code to open a bank account.
One of the most common immediate needs for the codice fiscale.
Il codice fiscale è gratuito.
The tax code is free.
Important to know — it costs nothing, despite what some unofficial 'helpers' may claim.
The codice fiscale was introduced in Italy in 1974 and is now embedded in virtually every administrative process. It is calculated algorithmically from your surname, first name, date of birth, and place of birth, making it possible to verify it independently. Italians memorise their codice fiscale — knowing it by heart is a basic adult competency.