Guide • Spain for International Buyers
How to Get a NIE Number in Spain (Insider Guide)
Moving forward with a home purchase in Barcelona? You’ll need a NIE number Spain—Spain’s official tax ID for foreigners. This friendly, step-by-step guide shows you how to get a NIE in Spain, what it costs, how long it takes, and when using a lawyer for NIE application makes everything easier.
Applies to Barcelona & all Spain
Updated: 22 Aug 2025
Difficulty: Low with a lawyer
What is a NIE Number?
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is your personal identifier in Spain’s systems. It’s not a visa or residence permit—just the number the government and banks use to track official activity. You’ll need it for buying property, opening a Spanish bank account, paying taxes, setting up utilities, getting a mortgage, starting a business, or even inheriting property.
Who Needs a NIE in Spain?
- Foreigners buying property in Spain (investment, second home, primary residence).
- Expats moving for work or entrepreneurs starting a business.
- Students enrolling at Spanish universities.
- Heirs dealing with assets, taxes, or legal matters in Spain.
Bottom line: If you’re doing anything official with money, ownership, or taxes, you need a NIE number Spain.
NIE vs. NIF vs. TIE
- NIE = Identification number for foreigners (the number itself).
- NIF = Tax ID label. Spaniards have a NIF; foreigners use their NIE as their NIF.
- TIE = Foreigner ID Card (plastic card for non-EU residents). Different from the NIE certificate.
How to Apply for a NIE in Spain (3 Ways)
1) Apply in Spain (in person)
Book a cita previa at the Policía Nacional immigration office, bring documents, pay the fee, and wait for your certificate. In Barcelona, appointments can be scarce.
2) Apply via Spanish Consulate (abroad)
Start before you arrive. Consulates accept your paperwork and forward it. Useful for buyers who want everything ready on arrival.
3) Apply through a lawyer (power of attorney)
The easiest path for property buyers. A lawyer submits forms and collects your NIE Barcelona with a notarized power of attorney—often faster and zero stress.
Step-by-Step (DIY) — Applying Yourself
- Book your appointment. Use the online system to book a cita previa. Be persistent; new slots appear at odd hours.
- Prepare documents. Passport (plus copy), EX-15 form, proof of purpose (e.g., property purchase), and the paid Modelo 790 (012) receipt.
- Attend in person. Arrive early with all copies. Staff usually speak Spanish; bring help if needed.
- Collect your certificate. Same day in some offices; 1–4 weeks in others. Guard the paper; the number is what matters and does not expire.
How Long Does It Take?
- DIY in Spain: Same day to several weeks (depends on office workload).
- Spanish Consulate: Typically 2–8 weeks.
- Through a lawyer: Often 1–3 weeks using power of attorney.
Costs & Fees
- Government fee: usually €9–€12 (Modelo 790, Code 012).
- DIY: time, transport, copies, and patience.
- Lawyer/gestor: usually €150–€300. For a six-figure property purchase, it’s a tiny premium for speed and certainty.
Common Problems (and How to Avoid Them)
- “No appointments available.” Try early mornings; lawyers often have priority booking channels.
- Incomplete paperwork. Missing one page = new appointment. Bring duplicates of everything.
- Language barrier. Misunderstandings can delay you. Consider professional help if you don’t speak Spanish.
- Weak proof of purpose. Buying a home? Bring the reservation/offer, agent letter, or other proof.
Why Use a Lawyer for Your NIE?
Can you do it yourself? Yes. Should you—when your goal is to buy property in Spain? Often, no. Here’s why our buyers choose a lawyer for NIE application:
- Speed & access: Lawyers often secure appointments faster.
- Zero stress: They know exactly what to submit and how.
- No travel required: With power of attorney, your NIE Barcelona can be obtained while you’re abroad.
- All-in-one: The same team handles your bank account, contracts, taxes, and notary.
Get Your NIE the Easy Way
We coordinate your NIE number Spain with trusted, English-speaking lawyers—so you can focus on finding your Barcelona home. Most clients get their number in as little as a few weeks via power of attorney.
NIE FAQs
Does a NIE expire?
No—the number is permanent. The printed certificate may show a validity date; your number remains valid.
Can I buy a property without a NIE?
No. The notary won’t complete the transaction without a valid NIE.
Which forms are required?
The EX-15 application form plus proof of purpose. Pay the Modelo 790 (012) at a bank and bring the receipt.
Can EU citizens skip the NIE?
No. EU citizens still need a NIE number for banking, taxes, utilities, and property purchases.
Should I apply at a consulate or in Spain?
Consulates are convenient before arrival; applying in Spain can be faster if you (or your lawyer) secure an early appointment.
Next Steps
Ready to move forward? Message us on WhatsApp to start your apply for NIE Spain process and your Barcelona home search in parallel.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, we’ll tailor the steps with our lawyer partners.
