If you’re planning to live, work, study, or conduct business in Spain as a foreigner, obtaining the NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is an essential step. The NIE is a unique identification number issued to non-Spaniards, allowing them to engage in various transactions within the country, and is essential if you want to legally reside, work or buy a property here.
We obtained our NIE through our solicitors (this required Power of Attorney), when we were buying our property, but you can also do it yourself. Whether you’re an EU citizen or from a non-EU country, here’s a step-by-step guide to obtaining your NIE in Spain.
What is NIE and why is it important?
The NIE is a personal identification number that serves as a legal requirement for all foreigners engaging in official transactions in Spain. It is used for various purposes, including tax obligations, buying or selling property, opening a bank account, starting a business, or starting a job.
White NIE vs green NIE
Some people may talk about “white NIE” and “green NIE”. This process is for getting the “white NIE”. The “green NIE” they refer to is, as a matter of fact, a completely different document, namely the registration certificate of an EU citizen. The confusion stems from the fact that you may be able to get both the NIE and the certificate (which is green) at the same time.
Steps to obtain NIE in Spain
1. Determine the reason for applying
Identify the reason for your application as different purposes might require specific documentation. Common reasons include employment, property purchase, starting a business, or studying in Spain.
2. Schedule an appointment
For most regions in Spain, scheduling an appointment (cita previa) is mandatory to apply for an NIE. You can typically book an appointment online with the regional Office for Foreigners (Oficina de Extranjería) in Spain or with the Spanish consulate in your home country. Some consulates will only deal with applications for NIE if your reason for obtaining it is a property purchase and they may require a proof, such as a pre-purchase contract.
Where to schedule a NIE appointment
You can schedule NIE appointments via the national system, Sistema de Cita Previa, managed by the Spanish government. After selecting you region, you will find the appropriate option (‘Assignacion de NIE’) either in the TRÁMITES OFICINAS DE EXTRANJERÍA or TRÁMITES POLICÍA NACIONAL field.
In some regions it’s more difficult to make an appointment than in others, so you have to be patient. Appointment slots are usually released daily so it’s worth checking availability regularly.
3. Gather required documents
The documents required may vary based on your purpose of obtaining the NIE. However, generally, you will need:
- Completed EX-15 form (Solicitud de Número de Identidad de Extranjero)
- Valid passport and photocopies
- Proof of the reason for your application (e.g., job offer, property purchase agreement, enrollment in a Spanish academic institution)
- Proof of payment for the NIE application fee (Tasa Modelo 790 Código 012)
4. Attend the appointment
Arrive at the scheduled appointment at the designated office. Present all necessary documents and the complete application form. Depending on the region, the processing time might vary, and the NIE might be issued immediately or take a few weeks.
5. Collect your NIE
Once your application is processed and approved, collect your NIE certificate from the relevant authorities. This certificate will bear your personal details along with your NIE number.
Tips for a smooth NIE application process
- Plan ahead: Schedule your appointment well in advance as waiting times for appointments can vary.
- Document preparation: Ensure all required documents are correctly filled out and organized to avoid delays or complications.
- Be punctual: Arrive on time for your appointment to avoid any potential issues.
- Follow up: If there are delays or issues with your application, follow up with the relevant authorities for updates.
Conclusion
Obtaining an NIE in Spain is a crucial step for anyone intending to stay or conduct official business within the country. By following these steps and ensuring you have all necessary documentation, you can streamline the process and obtain your NIE efficiently. Due to issues with the availability of appointments in some regions, you may want to consider using a professional to help you with the process as they have access to pre-booked appointments.
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