What is the NIE and Why It’s Essential for Foreigners in Spain

The Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) is a unique code assigned to foreigners who have an economic, professional, or social relationship with Spain. This number is essential for carrying out various legal procedures in the country, from purchasing property to opening a bank account. In this article, we explain what the NIE is, why you need it, and how to obtain it.

What is the NIE?

The NIE is an identification number that allows Spanish authorities to recognize foreigners who reside or carry out activities within the national territory. It is an alphanumeric code issued by the General Directorate of the Police and is required for various administrative and legal procedures. It is important to note that the NIE is not a document of identity itself but an identification number. European citizens must present their passport or national identity document along with the NIE.

The NIE should not be confused with the TIE (Foreign Identity Card), which is a physical document containing additional information such as the photo, fingerprints, and migration status of the holder.

Who Needs an NIE?

The NIE is necessary for:

• European Union citizens who reside or carry out economic activities in Spain.
• Non-EU foreigners who wish to invest, work, or live in the country.
• Anyone wishing to purchase real estate, such as a home or commercial property.
• Those who want to open a bank account or sign an employment contract.

How to Obtain the NIE?

The process for obtaining the NIE varies depending on whether you are in Spain or abroad.

If you are in Spain:

1. Schedule an appointment through the official website of the Ministry of the Interior. Be aware that appointment slots can be hard to get due to high demand.
2. Complete the EX-15 form and submit the following documents:
   • Passport or identity document (original and copy).
   • Proof of the reason for the application (e.g., property purchase or employment contract).
3. Pay the corresponding administrative fee.
4. Attend the appointment with all required documentation. The NIE will be issued within a few days, depending on the administrative workload.

If you are abroad:

You must go to the Spanish consulate in your country. The consulate will process your application and send it to the Spanish authorities. This process may take several weeks, depending on the country.

How Much Does it Cost to Obtain the NIE?

The administrative fee for obtaining the NIE is approximately €10, although it may vary slightly.

At Gestali Home, in our Alicante office, we offer a full accompaniment service for €130 + VAT, which includes:

• Assistance in completing the necessary documentation.
• Payment of the administrative fee.
• Accompaniment to the appointment at the relevant office.
• Translation services throughout the process.

If you require us to travel outside Alicante, an additional fee of €60 + VAT applies.

For added convenience, many of our clients choose to grant us power of attorney to handle the entire process on their behalf, especially if they are outside Spain. The fees for preparing this power of attorney and translating the documents are €65, and the notary costs range from €80 to €90.

Practical Tips

It’s advisable to plan ahead, as obtaining the NIE can take time, especially due to the high demand for appointments. Be sure to double-check your documentation to avoid delays. If the process feels overwhelming, a specialized agent like Gestali can handle all the paperwork for you, ensuring efficient management.

Why is the NIE Important in the Real Estate Sector?

The NIE is an essential requirement if you want to buy property in Spain. Without it, you will not be able to sign deeds, pay taxes, or complete other procedures related to purchasing real estate. Additionally, the NIE is crucial for other tasks such as setting up public or private services.

Conclusion

The NIE is a vital tool for any foreigner who wants to establish themselves, work, or invest in Spain. Although the process of obtaining it may seem complicated at first, with the right information and some planning, you will have no trouble getting it. At Gestali Home, we are here to help you every step of the way, ensuring that your experience in Spain is as smooth and successful as possible.

Do you have questions about the NIE or need advice? Contact us today, and we’ll answer all your questions.