Moving to Spain? Why Getting an NIE Number Is the First Legal Step You Can’t Skip
Relocating to Spain can be exciting — but before anything else, you need your NIE number.
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What Is the NIE and What Is It Used For?
The NIE is a unique ID number assigned to non-Spanish citizens who need to carry out legal or financial activities in Spain. Once issued, it never changes — you keep the same number for life.
- Employment and signing work contracts
- Opening a Spanish bank account
- Signing a lease or purchasing property
- Registering a business or as self-employed
- Filing taxes and enrolling in social security
In short, the NIE is your entry point into Spanish life.
Who Needs an NIE?
You need an NIE if you’re:
- Planning to live in Spain for more than 90 days
- Buying property or setting up a company
- Accepting a job or enrolling in studies
- Married to or dependent on a Spanish citizen/resident
Case Study: Leo, a Remote Worker from the Netherlands
Leo was moving to Barcelona to join a coworking tech startup. Although he held Dutch citizenship (and thus didn’t need a visa), he still needed an NIE to:
- Register for public healthcare
- Sign a rental contract
- Get paid into a Spanish bank account
"Getting my NIE early saved me tons of headaches — I could open a bank account and sign my apartment lease right away."
How to Apply for an NIE Online
There are two main options:
- In-Person Application
- Schedule a police station appointment (cita previa)
- Appear with ID, form EX-15, and supporting documents
- Pay the application fee (Modelo 790)
- Wait for your certificate (can take 2–6 weeks)
- Online via Authorized Representative
- Submit your documents online (passport, proof of need, etc.)
- Sign a digital power of attorney
- Your representative handles the in-person visit
- Certificate issued in 5–10 business days
This second option is ideal for digital nomads, remote workers, or property buyers not yet in Spain.
What You’ll Need to Apply
- Valid passport or EU ID
- Proof of reason for applying (employment, property, study, etc.)
- Address in Spain or intention to establish one
- Completed EX-15 form and payment proof
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Booking a cita previa in the wrong region
- Failing to provide a valid reason for application
- Assuming EU citizens don’t need an NIE
- Not preparing documents in advance
Why Apply Early?
Applying early prevents delays with:
- Housing
- Health insurance
- Employment registration
- Tax registration
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about starting a life in Spain — even temporarily — securing your NIE is not just a formality, it’s the foundation of your legal identity.