SIFIDE (the Business R&D Tax Incentive System) is Portugal's largest innovation tax benefit: it lets companies deduct 32.5% of the year's R&D expenses directly from corporate income tax (IRC), plus 50% on the increase versus the average of the previous two years (up to EUR 1.5M). The application is submitted to ANI by the end of May of the following year.
What SIFIDE is
SIFIDE is a tax credit that rewards companies investing in research and development (R&D) — new products, processes, software or technologies. Unlike a deduction from profit, SIFIDE is deducted directly from the IRC payable, reducing tax euro for euro. It is especially valuable for technology, software and startup companies.
How much SIFIDE is worth
| Component | Rate |
|---|---|
| Base rate (on total R&D expenses for the year) | 32.5% |
| Incremental rate (on the increase vs the previous 2-year average) | 50% (up to EUR 1.5M) |
The amount is deducted from IRC on the Modelo 22 return. Any part not deductible in a year (due to insufficient tax) carries forward for up to 8 years.
Which expenses are eligible
- R&D personnel (researchers, engineers, developers);
- Acquisition of assets dedicated to R&D (except buildings and land);
- Operating expenses linked to the R&D activity;
- Contracted R&D with certified public or private entities;
- Patent registration and maintenance and R&D audits.
How and when to apply
The application is submitted to ANI (the National Innovation Agency), usually by the end of May of the year following the expenses (e.g., 2025 expenses to apply by May 2026). ANI validates the R&D nature of the project and issues a declaration supporting the deduction. Documenting projects well throughout the year is essential.
SIFIDE and other benefits
SIFIDE is compatible with the ICE capitalisation incentive and most tax benefits — the non-cumulation rule only applies to the same expenses. For a software company that capitalises and invests in R&D, the combination can drastically cut IRC.
How HVR helps
We document R&D projects throughout the year, prepare the ANI application and make the Modelo 22 deduction — maximising the credit safely in case of an audit. See our accounting for startups page.
Frequently asked questions about SIFIDE
How much can I save with SIFIDE?
32.5% of the year's R&D expenses, plus 50% on the increase versus the previous two-year average (up to EUR 1.5M), deducted directly from corporate tax.
Who can apply for SIFIDE?
Companies subject to IRC that carry out research and development — often technology, software, industrial companies and startups.
Until when can I use the SIFIDE credit?
The part not deducted due to insufficient tax carries forward for up to 8 years.
What is the application deadline?
The application is submitted to ANI, usually by the end of May of the year following the expenses.
Can SIFIDE be combined with the ICE?
Yes. SIFIDE is compatible with the ICE and other benefits; non-cumulation only applies to the same expenses.