Are you planning to move to Spain, work there, buy property, or simply enjoy the sun and life? Then you’ll quickly realize that there’s one thing you can’t avoid: the N.I.E. number. It may sound complicated at first, but don’t worry – we’ll explain everything you need to know without making you sweat.

 

What is the N.I.E. number?

The N.I.E. number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is essentially your personal identification number in Spain if you’re not Spanish. It’s like your tax ID and is issued by the Spanish police. Don’t panic; you won’t be constantly checked, but you need this number to handle almost everything important in Spain.

 

Why do you need the N.I.E. number?

Whether you’re staying in Spain for a while or starting a new life there, this number is your key to many things:

◉ Working in Spain: No N.I.E., no job contract. Simply put, if you want to earn money in Spain, you need this number.

◉ Buying or Renting Property If you want to rent or buy an apartment in Spain, you must identify yourself with your N.I.E. number.

◉ Bank Account: Need a Spanish bank account? Again, no N.I.E., no access.

◉ Starting a Business: Got big plans to launch your own business in Spain? You can’t avoid getting an N.I.E. number.

◉ Taxes: Whether you like it or not, taxes are a reality – even in Spain. You’ll need the N.I.E. number to file your tax returns or pay taxes.

◉ Insurance: Even when taking out insurance, like health insurance, your N.I.E. number may come into play.

◉ Buying a Vehicle: Planning to buy a car in Spain? You’ll also need to show your N.I.E. number.

But you don’t only need it for big matters like work, property, or taxes; it’s also essential for everyday life, and this is important to remember. For example, most online shops require an N.I.E. number to create an account, which means you might not be able to order anything without it, so it’s a good idea to have it ready. Even delivery services have asked for the N.I.E. number upon delivery, and it’s often written on the delivery receipt to ensure the package goes to the right person, because accuracy is important.

 

How do you get the N.I.E. number?

Getting your identification number isn’t so complicated once you know what to do. Here’s how to proceed:

📌 Schedule an Appointment 📌

 

To apply for your number, you need an appointment at the police station or foreign office (Comisaría de Policía or Oficina de Extranjeros). You can book this online or in person. But be cautious: especially in large cities, wait times can be long. Here’s a little insider tip: Every Friday at 9:30 AM, appointments for the following days are released online. You need to act quickly – really quickly! These appointments are in high demand and often gone within minutes. So, set your alarm and be ready when the time comes!

 

📌 Prepare Documents 📌

 

Before you go, make sure you have everything:

 

◉ Your passport or ID card (original and copy).

◉ The completed application form (Modelo EX-15).

◉ A document that proves the reason for your application (e.g., employment contract, rental agreement, purchase contract).

◉ The payment receipt for the fee.

 

A small but important tip: It’s best to pay the processing fee – officially called „Tasa modelo 790 Código 012“ – a few days before your appointment at the bank. In theory, you can do this at any bank, but our experience shows it doesn’t always go smoothly. After a few unsuccessful attempts, we finally managed to pay at BBVA. So, if you encounter similar issues, you might have luck there.

 

👉 Download Modelo EX-15

👉 Download Tasa modelo 790 Código 012

 

📌 Go to the Office 📌

 

On the day of your appointment, go to the office in person, submit your documents, and fill out any additional paperwork. This usually doesn’t take long, unless the line in front of you is endless.

 

📌 Wait for Your Number 📌

 

In many cases, you’ll receive your N.I.E. number directly from the clerk.

 

What’s the Difference for EU and Non-EU Citizens?

As an EU citizen, it’s easier for you. You have the right to live and work in Spain without much bureaucratic hassle. For non-EU citizens, the process can sometimes be a bit more complicated, as more documentation is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Conclusion

At first glance, the N.I.E. number may seem like a bothersome formality, but it’s your ticket to really getting started in Spain. Whether you want to work, buy a place, or simply enjoy your life in Spain – you won’t get far without an N.I.E. number. Fortunately, the process isn’t too complicated, and once you have the number, you’ll be ready to embark on all the exciting chapters of your Spanish adventure!

 

We hope these tips will help you to master your everyday life as an expat even better! Do you have your own experiences or further recommendations on the topic of emigrating? Feel free to leave us a comment! Share this post with others who could benefit from the tips and stay tuned for more inspiration from life as an expat.

Your Steffi & Marius