What Do You Need a NIE Number For in Spain?
Anyone planning to buy a property in Spain quickly hears about the NIE. This number is the key to almost every official transaction in Spain, which is why it is one of the first things we arrange together with our clients. In this article we explain what the NIE is, what you need it for and how to apply.
What is a NIE number?
NIE stands for Número de Identidad de Extranjero, the identification number for foreigners. It is a personal tax number the Spanish authorities use to identify you, comparable to a social security or national insurance number at home. The number is valid for life and never changes. Important to know: a NIE is not a residence permit and says nothing about your residency status. Even if you only buy a holiday home and do not live in Spain, you still need a NIE.
What do you need the NIE for?
Without a NIE number you can complete almost no formal transaction in Spain. The most important situations:
- Buying or selling a property: the notary cannot execute the purchase deed without the NIE of buyer and seller.
- Opening a bank account: virtually every Spanish bank asks for a NIE when you open an account.
- Paying taxes: the transfer tax on your purchase and the annual taxes for homeowners are settled through your NIE.
- Signing contracts: water, electricity, internet and a phone subscription all require a NIE.
- Buying or insuring a car: registering a vehicle in your name also requires the number.
- Working or starting a business: taking up employment or setting up a company is impossible without a NIE.
- Receiving an inheritance or gift: inheriting Spanish property also requires a NIE.
How do you apply for a NIE?
There are three ways to apply. The first is through the Spanish consulate in your home country, which is convenient if you are not in Spain yet. The second is in Spain itself, at a foreigners office or police station with an Extranjería department. You fill in form EX-15, pay a small fee using form Modelo 790 and show your passport. The third and easiest option: you grant power of attorney to a gestor or lawyer, who handles the entire application for you without you having to travel.
How long does it take?
Processing times vary per office and per season. In Spain you sometimes receive the number the same day, while an application through the consulate can take several weeks. Our advice is to arrange the NIE well before your planned purchase, so the process at the notary is not delayed unnecessarily.
We are happy to help
At Real Estate G. Jimmink we guide our clients through the entire buying process, including the NIE application via our trusted partners. That way you can be sure all paperwork is in order the moment your dream home comes along. Feel free to contact us for more information.
