If you intend to settle or carry out any economic activity legally in Spain, it is very likely that you will be interested in obtaining the NIE. Like every bureaucratic procedure, it is kind of tedious and has its difficulties. But don’t worry, here we tell you everything you need to know about how to get the NIE, what it is for, and how to apply for it.
The NIE is the Foreigner Identity Number, a reference made up of a letter (X, Y, or Z), seven digits, and an alphabetic verification character (that is, another letter). It is a personal, unique and exclusive number, it proves that you reside in Spain and is associated with both taxation (payment of taxes) and Social Security (medical assistance and contributions).
Why should you Get the NIE? And for what?
You already know that, although we would like it to be otherwise, you cannot freely roam the world. There are a whole series of conditions to meet if you want to stay in a foreign country for a certain time period, always depending on what you want to do in that country.
The NIE is used for several things. Actually, it is necessary for almost any procedure or daily life activity. Basically, it shows that you have permission to live indefinitely in Spain.
In a practical sense, when you get the NIE it authorizes your residence, and therefore allows you to work, buy property or vehicles, set up businesses, pay taxes, pay your contributions to Social Security, receive public health care, request your Empadronamiento certificate, etc.
Do not expect anything other than a certificate which, apart from the famous alphanumeric sequence, includes your personal data (name, nationality, birthplace, address), the seal and signature of the Official Administration.
When to get the NIE? And how to apply for it?
Let’s get to the point: when and where should you get the NIE?
It can be done through a Spanish Embassy or Consulate, but the most normal thing is to do it once you are in Spain, due to the documentation you need to present. You must submit the application to the police, at any police station or Immigration Office; the diplomatic services abroad will only transmit your request to the Spanish police.
How is it done?
First, schedule your Appointment to get the NIE.
Documentation:
The documents you need to attach are:
- EX 15 Form filled in and signed, and a copy. You can fill it out on your computer and print it in duplicate or fill it out by hand (in capital letters) and photocopy it.
- Valid passport, travel document, or registration card. European Union citizens may present their ID. In every case, the original and a copy are requested.
- Address in Spain for any notification to be sent to you (this demonstrates that is better to do it once you are in Spain).
- Written Motif justification. The statement of a future employer is useful if you are going to work, of a bank manager if you want to open a bank account, of a head of studies if you are going to study, etc.
- Documentation proving that the applicant is not in an irregular situation. This means, that you have not infringed the conditions of your visa (if you are a Union citizen you will not have to worry about this). This is as simple as showing the date of your entry to the country.
- Pay a fee of €9.64.
The procedure to get the NIE can also be done through an intermediary or representative, who has been conveniently authorized with a notarized power of attorney.
Let’s Talk!
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