NIE number for property buyers — what it is and how to get one
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is a personal tax and identification number issued to all foreigners with interests in Spain. Without it you cannot sign a Spanish title deed, open a bank account, set up utilities, pay taxes or register a vehicle. Getting it should be the very first step in your property purchase.
Two ways to apply
You can apply in person at a Spanish consulate in your country of residence, or in Spain — either in person at a Foreigners' Office (Oficina de Extranjería) or police station, or via a Spanish lawyer using a power of attorney (poder notarial).
Documents you'll need
- Completed Modelo EX-15 application form
- Original passport plus a photocopy of the photo page
- Two passport-size photos (when applying in person)
- Evidence of the economic, professional or social reason — for buyers this is typically a reservation contract or a signed offer letter from the agent
- Form 790 with the application fee paid at a Spanish bank (€9.84 at the time of writing)
Applying from abroad through a consulate
Book an appointment with the Spanish consulate covering your home address. Processing usually takes two to six weeks. You'll collect the NIE certificate in person from the same consulate.
Applying in Spain via a lawyer
If you'd rather not delay your trip, a Spanish lawyer can apply on your behalf with a notarised and apostilled power of attorney signed in your home country. This is the fastest route for active buyers — most NIEs come back within 1–3 weeks.
Does an NIE expire?
The NIE number itself is permanent and never changes. The physical white A4 certificate, however, was historically considered valid for three months from issue for certain administrative steps — in practice notaries and banks now accept any clearly legible original. If yours is more than a few years old and worn, getting a fresh print-out is a sensible precaution before completion.