The NIE number is essential for anyone looking to engage in business activities or long-term stays in Spain. Without it, almost nothing is possible: neither purchasing property, opening a bank account, nor starting a business can be done without it.
In this article, you’ll learn what the NIE number is, who needs it, and how to apply for it efficiently. For entrepreneurs and senior executives looking to move to or expand into Spain, this process is particularly important. Global Tax Saving will help you navigate this step smoothly.
Content
- What is the NIE number in Spain?
- When is the NIE number needed?
- Applying for a NIE number in Spain: Online or in-person
- The NIE number in Spain: An essential step
What is the NIE number in Spain?
The NIE number, or Número de Identificación de Extranjero, is an identification number issued by the Spanish authorities to foreigners. This number accompanies you through all administrative and legal processes in Spain.
It is a requirement for establishing a business or tax presence in Spain. For foreigners, the NIE is the equivalent of the Spanish DNI (National Identification Number).
When is the NIE number needed?
You will need the NIE number in various situations, such as:
- Purchasing or renting property:
Without a NIE, you cannot sign a purchase contract or be registered as the owner. - Opening a bank account:
Some Spanish banks require the NIE as proof of your legal status in the country. Many banks offer the option to open a bank account without a NIE, though the terms and limitations vary between banks. - Starting a business:
A NIE number is necessary for establishing a company in Spain. - Employment:
Whether as an employee or self-employed, you cannot work legally in Spain without a NIE. - Buying a car:
Purchasing a car in Spain requires a NIE number. - SIM-Card:
If you want to sign up for a mobile phone contract, you often need a NIE number and proof of residence. Without a NIE, you can only purchase a prepaid SIM card in Spain.
Entrepreneurs and investors
Anyone looking to start a business or engage in commercial activities in Spain will need an NIE number. For investors seeking permanent residency in Spain through the Golden Visa programme, the NIE number is also required. Without this identification number, contracts cannot be signed, employees cannot be hired, and tax obligations cannot be fulfilled. The number is also needed to buy properties in Spain.
Employees and freelancers
If you are planning to take up employment in Spain or work as a freelancer, you will also need the NIE number. It is required for registration with social security and for all tax-related matters. Additionally, opening a salary account is not possible without an NIE.

Applying for a NIE number in Spain: Online or in-person
The application for an NIE number can be made either in Spain or from other countries via a Spanish Consulate. To simplify the process, you can handle the entire application through an experienced external service provider, such as Global Tax Saving. Here is an overview of the options:
1. Personal application in Spain
If you wish to apply for your NIE number and are already in Spain, you can book an appointment online. This appointment can be scheduled through the official website of the Spanish authorities. After selecting your province, you must choose either “Certificados UE” for EU citizens or “Expedición de tarjeta de identidad de extranjero” for non-EU citizens and enter your personal details.
Please note that the waiting time for an appointment is usually at least one month. Therefore, it is advisable to arrange the appointment as early as possible, ideally right after your arrival in Spain. If you are outside of Spain and applying for the NIE through a Spanish consulate, the process may take significantly longer.
2. Application via a Spanish Consulate
If you wish to apply from your country of residence, you can usually do so through a Spanish Consulate. As with the process in Spain, you need to schedule an appointment online and attend in person. Appointment waiting times can be long, particularly during the summer months, often extending up to eight weeks.
Required documents:
- Valid passport
- Registration certificate or rental contract in Spain
- Completed EX-15 form and proof of payment for the fee (TASA 790)
3. Convenient online application via Global Tax Saving
A more efficient and stress-free option is to collaborate with a professional service provider like Global Tax Saving. They manage the entire process on your behalf, without the need for you to be physically present in Spain.
Benefits of hiring a service provider:
- No personal appearance in Spain required
- Professional preparation and submission of all documents
- No risk: payment only after a successful application
By working with a service provider, you save valuable time and avoid potential errors that could occur during a self-submission.
The NIE number in Spain: An essential step
Applying for the NIE number is the first and most important step for anyone looking to engage in business or personal activities in Spain.
Entrepreneurs and employees who plan to move to or invest in Spain should arrange their NIE number as early as possible.
Our experienced team at Global Tax Saving handles all administrative steps, from document verification to appointment scheduling, ensuring that you obtain your NIE number in Spain quickly and stress-free.
Contact us today to secure your NIE number effortlessly and with minimal hassle.