What is the NIE Number?
The NIE — Número de Identidad de Extranjero — is a tax identification number issued by the Spanish authorities to all foreign nationals who need to carry out legal or financial activities in Spain. Think of it as the Spanish equivalent of a National Insurance number or Tax File Number.
The NIE is not a residence permit. It does not grant you the right to live or work in Spain. It is purely a fiscal identifier — but without it, you cannot carry out most significant legal and financial transactions in Spain.
When Do You Need a Spanish NIE?
You need an NIE for virtually any significant activity in Spain as a foreigner, including:
- Buying or selling property — you cannot sign the title deed at the notary without one.
- Opening a Spanish bank account — most banks require an NIE for non-residents.
- Paying taxes — IRNR, capital gains, ITP, and inheritance tax all require an NIE.
- Registering a vehicle in Spain.
- Setting up a business or signing commercial contracts.
- Applying for residency — the NIE is a prerequisite for most Spanish residency applications.
- Inheriting assets in Spain.
How to Apply for a Spanish NIE in Spain
Applying requires attending a National Police station (Comisaría de la Policía Nacional) that handles foreigner matters. In Mijas and La Cala de Mijas, the relevant office is typically in Fuengirola or Marbella. You will need to:
- Book an appointment (cita previa) via the Spanish police website — appointments can be scarce, so book early.
- Complete Form EX-15 (NIE application form).
- Prepare a document justifying why you need the NIE (e.g. a property reservation contract).
- Bring your original passport and a photocopy.
- Pay the fee of approximately €12 using Form 790 Code 012 at a Spanish bank, and bring the receipt.
- Attend the appointment and submit your documents.
Processing time is typically 1–4 weeks. Plan this step well in advance of any planned property completion.
Applying for a Spanish NIE from Outside Spain
If you are not yet in Spain, you can apply for an NIE at a Spanish consulate in your home country. However, consulate appointments can be very difficult to obtain in some countries (particularly the UK).
An alternative — and often more convenient — approach is to grant a Spanish Power of Attorney to your lawyer in Spain, who can then apply on your behalf. This is widely used, particularly for property buyers.
How a Lawyer in Mijas Can Help with Your NIE
Applying for an NIE involves navigating Spanish bureaucracy, booking scarce appointments, preparing paperwork, and attending in person — all of which can delay your property transaction if done incorrectly.
Dolores Perujo's office handles NIE applications on behalf of clients regularly, acting under Power of Attorney. We can apply for your NIE concurrently with property due diligence, saving you valuable time.