What is an NIE Number?
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a unique identification number assigned to foreigners in Spain. It's your Spanish tax identification number and is required for virtually any financial or legal transaction.
You'll need an NIE to:
- Buy or sell property
- Open a Spanish bank account
- Sign contracts (utilities, phone, internet)
- Pay taxes
- Work in Spain
- Buy a car
- Set up a business
Important:
An NIE is not the same as residency. It's simply a tax identification number. You can have an NIE without being a Spanish resident.
How to Apply for an NIE
There are two ways to obtain your NIE:
Option 1: Apply in Spain
You can apply in person at:
- Oficina de Extranjería (Foreigners Office)
- Comisaría de Policía (Police Station) with a foreigners department
In Costa Blanca, major offices are in Alicante, Benidorm, and Torrevieja. You'll need to book an appointment online through the Spanish government appointment system.
Option 2: Apply from Your Home Country
You can apply at the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in your country. This is often easier as appointments may be more readily available and staff typically speak English.
Required Documents
- ✓EX-15 Form
Official NIE application form, completed and signed
- ✓Valid Passport
Original plus a photocopy of all pages
- ✓Passport Photo
Recent, passport-sized photo
- ✓Proof of Reason
Document explaining why you need the NIE (e.g., reservation contract for property purchase)
- ✓Modelo 790 Código 012
Tax form with fee payment (approximately €12)
Cost and Timeline
💰 Cost
- Government fee: ~€12
- Via lawyer/gestor: €100-200
⏱️ Timeline
- In Spain: Same day - 2 weeks
- From abroad: 2-4 weeks
- Via lawyer: 2-4 weeks
Getting Your NIE via Power of Attorney
If you can't visit Spain or struggle to get an appointment, you can grant Power of Attorney (Poder Notarial) to a Spanish lawyer who can apply on your behalf.
This involves:
- Signing a Power of Attorney document (can be done at a Spanish consulate or notarized and apostilled locally)
- Sending original documents to your lawyer
- The lawyer submits the application and collects your NIE certificate
This is the most convenient option for overseas buyers and is commonly used for property purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the NIE expire?
The NIE number itself never expires - it's yours for life. However, the paper certificate may have an expiration date. You can always get a new certificate with the same number.
Can I buy property without an NIE?
No. The NIE is required to sign the purchase deed (escritura) at the notary. You can sign a reservation without one, but must have it before completion.
Do both spouses need separate NIEs?
Yes. If buying property jointly, each person named on the title deed needs their own NIE number.
Is there a difference between NIE and TIE?
Yes. The NIE is just a number. The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is a physical ID card for residents. Non-residents only need the NIE certificate.
Need Help with Your NIE?
When you buy property through us, we can arrange your NIE application through our legal partners. One less thing to worry about.