NIE / NIF Registration

What is an NIE number and why do I need one?
In Spain you cannot legally buy property, a house, car, boat etc without having applied to the police for your NIE number and had your NIE documentation returned. Likewise, you cannot enter into a contract for the supply of electricity, water or a telephone line etc without giving your NIE/NIF number together with your bank details because these services will only accept clients whose bills are paid automatically from a bank. Neither can you arrange an insurance policy or order goods or services, sign on for the National Social Security, Health Service or commence a job without showing your NIE number.

The Decree (Real Decreto 338-1990) of 9th March establishes that everyone, of whatever nationality, resident or not, who has any "official business" in Spain, must have a fiscal number (NIF/NIE) which is used to identify them on all official documents.

What is the difference between an NIE and NIF number?
People often talk about or ask for your NIE or NIF number. In actuality they are the same. The NIE is used for confirming your identification whereas, if you wish to carry out any fiscal function such as opening a bank account, buy a property, car, boat etc it is referred to as an NIF (fiscal) number. Application requirement and the document issued are the same.

Do I have to apply to the police personally for an NIE? Normally, yes, but...
It is now accepted that where applicants find difficulty in attending a Spanish National Police Station personally, they may apply through a solicitor (abogado); to do so they must give the solicitor their full Power of Attorney (POA) and complete NIE form ex14/R.D.2393/2004 ensuring they complete section 4.

Solicitor Assistance. For such services a solicitor normally charges 130 Euros or more. Alternatively, if you wish to apply yourself but need assistance translating the NIE form at the police station, an interpretor will normally charge 30/40 Euros per hour for their services; one hour should be enough.

contact us now and we will act on your behalf to obtain your NIE for you.