Applying for the NIE
Everything you Need to Know
What is it?
Your NIE
Whether you are an EU or non EU resident. It is a legal requirement to obtain a NIE if you are planning to live in Spain, regardless if you have a visa permit, work permit or you are a student.
It is a personal, unique and exclusive sequential number that identifies the foreign national with the Spanish authorities
Your NIE Card
(Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión). Is a little green paper card laminated on the back (previously a piece of green paper, A4 size) contains NIE number together with your name, date and birthplace, address in Spain and date of application required for stays exceeding 3 months CARD. It is necessary for a variety of activities:
- Working in Spain
- Studying in Spain
- Non-active living in Spain more than 3 months
- Registering a business or working self-employed as a freelancer
- Opening a bank account
- Registering for social services and receiving benefits
- Exchange your driving license
- Exchange car signs
Your NIE Number
NIE (Número de identidad de extranjero) is a number written on a white piece of paper with unlimited validity consisting of 1 letter at the beginning, 7 numbers and 1 letter at the end – e.g.: Y-3333333-S. Assigned for administrative purposes:
- Purchase or sell property in Spain
- Investment
- Paying Taxes
- Starting a job in Spain
- Registering a business or working self-employed as a freelancer
- Opening a bank account
- Registering for social services and receiving benefits
- Getting a Spanish mortgage
- Buying or selling motor vehicles
- Studying in Spain (less than 3 months)
- Arranging utilities in Spain
- Dealing with Spanish inheritance
- Getting a BICING or SIM card registered in Spain
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Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
To get your NIE number for Spain, you can apply directly in Spain. Applications can be made in person or through a duly accredited representative. It is mandatory for either the applicant or their representative to be physically present during the application process. NIE Card can only be done in person
The period of time it takes to obtain the NIE number varies according to where you make the application. It is usually quicker to obtain the number in Spain rather than via the Spanish consulate, however many of the immigration offices in Spain require an appointment as well, and in some, it can take several weeks to get an appointment. We are here to speed up the process.
Yes, if you cannot apply in person, you can authorize a proxy or attorney to act on your behalf. This is often done through a power of attorney document. Many Spanish lawyers and legal services offer this assistance, which can be particularly helpful if you’re not fluent in Spanish or unfamiliar with Spanish bureaucracy.
Samantha PrimeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a very complicated case and here in the uk I was struggling with paperwork to obtain NIE and with my 10 year olds name change. I spoke to Daniela and she was able to help me with all my queries. She was fast effective super responsive answering my emails and questions. she did everything and took away so much stress. I don't think I would have been able to have done it without Daniela. She truly went above and beyond my expections. Thank you so much. Kutay BozatikTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Exactly what you need. Got helped by Marketa and got the buggest help. Recommended! Jacopo OggeroTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service, super professional! Gary NeedhamTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Daniela and Marketa provided a wonderful service taking the stress out of the procedure for us. They were very fast and efficient, Marketa was very helpful, friendly and professional. We would certainly recommend their services to others. MariaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Super professioneller Service. 100% Weiterempfehlung. Vielen Dank an das Team. Brendan MullinsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a great experience. It was Seamless process and Marketa was beyond helpful. Had NIE appointment within a week and didn't have to worry about anything during the appointment. Highly recommend Makenzie KermathTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely brilliant service that I received from Marketa,the whole process was smooth and simple and definitely would recommend this agency especially if you’re confused with the process here in Barcelona! Thank you GoodyearTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently used the services of NIE.CAT and couldn’t be happier with the experience. The team is professional and efficient, making the entire process of obtaining my NIE number much easier. I especially want to highlight Marketa, who guided me through every step of the application process. She was incredibly patient and clearly explained which documents were needed. Marketa even accompanied me to the appointment and helped with the paperwork. Her friendly and supportive approach made everything stress-free and smooth. I highly recommend NIE.CAT’s services, and especially Marketa’s outstanding assistance! DIE SCH (D I)Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. In Spain, communicating with the administration and getting appointments is a nightmare. These guys make it as easy as possible for you. Totally worth it, and the price is very fair! For the service they provide, they could even charge more. They even go with you to the Extranjería (appointment with the government). Today, I went to the appointment with M***** from the company, and it was amazing. I was really nervous, but she was calm, confident, and stoic. It helped me relax a lot! Thank you!
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