What is an NIE number?

An NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a unique identification number assigned to non-Spanish nationals who have official business in Spain. It serves as a foreigner’s identification and tax number, and it is essential for a variety of administrative and financial activities within the country.

The NIE number is used for:

• Opening a bank account
• Purchasing property
• Starting a business
• Working in Spain
• Registering with social services
• Paying taxes
• Buying a vehicle
• Conducting any official transactions

The NIE is issued by the General Directorate of Police and must be obtained by anyone who plans to stay in Spain for more than three months or who needs to engage in the activities mentioned above. It is one of the few documents that one can obtain from any Police Station serving foreigners, not just one that is local to them.

With a valid Power of Attorney your representative can go on your behalf to collect it when necessary.

To apply for an NIE number, one typically needs to:

1. Complete the appropriate application form (EX-15).
2. Provide a valid passport or national identity card (plus copies).
3. Supply a document explaining the reason for the request (such as a job offer, propertypurchase, etc.).
4. Pay a small fee.
5. Submit the application at the local police station or the Spanish consulate/embassy intheir home country.

The process can vary slightly depending on the individual’s circumstances and where they apply and due to demand it can at times be difficult to get an appointment so it is important engage with a professional as soon as possible to start the process.