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Getting NIE number

What Is NIE and What Is It Needed For?

You might like Tenerife so much that you can see yourself living here. If you want to turn your dreams of life on this island into a reality, you need an NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero). This identification number, similar to birth number, is necessary for foreigners staying in Spain for more than 3 months. We have prepared an overview of all the things you will need an NIE for and how to obtain one.

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Using NIE Number

An NIE number consists of a starting letter, 7 digits and a verification letter at the end. So your NIE may look like this: Y3321234-W

You will need it not only when dealing with the authorities but also in many everyday situations. In particular:

opening a bank account

buying and selling property

buying, selling and transferring a car

obtaining a loan or mortgage

acquiring a mobile number

paying taxes

doing business in Spain

studying in Spain

assigning your child to a nursery

Without a NIE no one will sort out matters like this with you. However, beware as an NIE does not serve as a work permit. If you are not from the EU, the NIE is not your ticket to the Spanish labor market. Nor will it allow you to enter the country’s social and health system. 

Applying for NIE

In order to get your unique NIE number you first need to apply to the relevant office. You can do this either directly in Spain or at the consular office in the applicant’s country. While the second option may seem more convenient, it does have one catch – the NIE issued at the consulate is only valid for 3 months. While the number will remain permanently, it will be deactivated after this period and you will need to apply for a renewal.

To apply in Spain, you must visit the local police, where you must first make an appointment, called a cita prévia.

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What Is Needed for NIE Application?

The application can be submitted in person or through a duly accredited representative. However, the physical presence of the applicant or his representative is always mandatory. 

To obtain a number, the following is required:

a completed standardised application form EX-15 (original and one copy)

original and copy of a passport or identity card valid for at least the following 6 months

documentation demonstrating the economic, professional or social interests that justify the application

proof of payment of the administrative fee and completion of Form 790

You will need to fill in the form your Spanish address of residence. If you don’t already have such an address, you can also enter the address of a hotel or Airbnb.

The average processing time for an NIE is 20 to 30 days.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Nie?

The allocation of the NIE number itself is €9.84. This is a fee to the police and if you sort everything out yourself, it will not cost you more to get a number. However, many applicants will agree that getting NIE is long and stressful process. Navigating the laws and regulations of a foreign country can be a tough nut to crack, especially if you don’t speak the local language. Many agencies therefore offer to complete all the formalities for you.

If you too would consider the convenience of processing your NIE with the help of an agency, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to make all the necessary arrangements for you – from booking an appointment, and filling in the forms, to accompanying you to the police station. 

 

To enquire about sorting out an NIE please fill in the form below or email us.