The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a tax ID for foreigners in Spain. You need it for almost everything: bank accounts, leases, taxes, employment.
Who Needs One
Any foreigner with financial or professional dealings in Spain:
- Buying or renting property
- Opening a bank account
- Working (employed or self-employed)
- Starting a business
- Inheriting assets
You may need one even if you are not moving permanently.
NIE vs NIF
The NIE is your ID number. The NIF is the tax format. For foreigners, they are the same number used in different contexts.
How to Get It
From outside Spain: Apply at the Spanish consulate. Processing varies by location.
From inside Spain: Apply at a police station or foreigners office. Getting an appointment is the hard part.
Documents needed:
- Passport
- EX-15 form
- Proof of reason (job offer, property purchase, etc.)
- Appointment confirmation
Timeline
Consulate: 2-4 weeks. In Spain: same day if you have an appointment. Appointments are scarce. Plan ahead.
Common Mistakes
- Waiting until arrival to apply
- Missing justification documents
- Confusing NIE with TIE (residence card)
Need help? We handle NIE applications.