NIE Number in Spain: What It Is, When You Need It and How to Apply

If you are preparing to buy a property in Spain, one of the first formalities you are likely to be asked for is an NIE. It may also be needed to deal with an inheritance or to carry out other transactions with economic or tax consequences.

Although it is an identification number, it is often confused with a residence permit or with the foreigner identity card.

At MH Legal & Seguros we explain what the NIE is in Spain, how to apply for it and what is worth preparing so that this formality fits in with your transaction.

What the NIE is and what it is used for

The NIE is the Número de Identidad de Extranjero (Foreigner Identity Number): a personal, unique and exclusive identifier that the Spanish authorities assign to foreign individuals who have dealings with Spain.

It may be assigned within an immigration procedure, or applied for on economic, professional or social grounds.

For foreign individuals, the NIE also serves, as a general rule, as their tax identification number before the Spanish tax authorities. That is why it matters in transactions such as acquiring a property and filing the corresponding taxes.

When you may need an NIE in Spain

It is worth checking whether you need an NIE if you are going to:

• Buy a home or any other property.
• Receive an inheritance with assets or rights in Spain.
• Take part in a Spanish company or hold certain offices.
• Carry out transactions that require identification before the tax authorities.

Whether you need to apply depends on the transaction and on your situation. Before you start, check whether a number has already been assigned to you and which route is appropriate to evidence it.

You do not need to move your residence to Spain in order to apply for an NIE for an economic transaction. The application must state the reason that justifies it.

NIE, TIE and residence: what the differences are

These concepts are related, but they serve different purposes:

• NIE: the number that identifies the foreign individual.
• TIE: the foreigner identity card, which evidences the holder’s legal situation in the cases in which it is issued.
• Residence: holding an NIE does not, by itself, grant authorisation to live or work in Spain.

If you intend to move to Spain, in addition to obtaining or evidencing your NIE you must review the residence requirements applicable to your nationality and circumstances.

How to apply for an NIE in Spain or from abroad

The application route should be chosen taking into account where you live, where you are and whether you will act in person or through a representative.

Applying in Spain

The application may be filed at the competent National Police offices or Foreigners’ Offices, following the applicable procedure and appointment system.

Before booking the appointment, check that you have selected the correct procedure and that you have the required documentation.

Applying from your country of residence

If you are outside Spain, you can file the application through the Spanish consular office corresponding to your place of residence.

You should check its instructions on filing, appointments, documentation and payment of the fee.

Applying through a representative

Applications filed in Spain through a duly accredited representative are also accepted. The power of attorney must be sufficient and must expressly include the authority to apply for the NIE.

If you are going to grant it abroad, it is worth reviewing its content beforehand, together with any translation and legalisation requirements that may apply.

What documents you need to apply for an NIE

As a starting point, the documentation includes:

• Official form EX-15, completed and signed.
• Valid identity or travel document, with the required copies.
• An explanation of the economic, professional or social reasons for the application.
• Proof of payment of the corresponding fee.
• If a representative acts, documentation evidencing the representation and a sufficient power of attorney.

In Spain, form 790, code 012, is used to pay this fee. If you file the application through a consulate, check the payment instructions of the relevant office.

It is also worth confirming which documents you must provide to justify the transaction behind the application.

When to apply for an NIE if you are buying a property

The advisable approach is to look at this formality from the moment you start preparing the purchase.

It is better not to leave it until the days before completion. Preparing documents, obtaining an appointment and, where relevant, granting a power of attorney need to fit the timetable of the transaction.

Before accepting a signing date, check:

• Whether every buyer has the identification they need.
• Which documents are still outstanding.
• Who will file the application.
• Whether a power of attorney will need to be prepared.
• How much room there is to resolve any issues that arise.

The plan should be coordinated with the legal review of the property, the contract and the preparation of payments.

Frequently asked questions about the NIE in Spain

Can I apply for an NIE if I am not going to live in Spain?

Yes. It can be applied for on economic, professional or social grounds even if you do not intend to establish residence in Spain. You must state the reason that justifies the application.

Does having an NIE allow me to live or work in Spain?

No. The NIE is an identification number. The requirements to live or work in Spain must be assessed separately.

Do I have to travel to Spain to apply?

It may be possible to file the application through the Spanish consulate corresponding to your residence. It can also be filed in Spain through a representative holding a sufficient power of attorney.

What if I already have an NIE from an earlier transaction?

Tell us before starting a new application. It is worth checking the number assigned to you and the documentation available to evidence it.

How much does it cost to apply for an NIE?

The application is subject to an administrative fee. You should check the current amount and the payment method before filing the documentation. If you entrust the handling to a professional, their fees are quoted separately from the fee.

Prepare your NIE as part of your transaction in Spain

The NIE application needs to fit into the preparation of your purchase, inheritance or other asset matter. Reviewing the documentation from the outset helps to identify what is missing and to organise the next steps.

At MH Legal & Seguros we advise international clients on property transactions and inheritances throughout Spain. We can help you review whether an NIE application is needed, prepare the documentation and coordinate the filing with the rest of your transaction.

Contact our team to prepare your formalities in Spain.