What is a NIE number?

Moving to or staying in Spain for a longer period as a non-citizen often means encountering the term NIE number. It is a central part of the Spanish administrative system, particularly for non-Spanish citizens who want to work, buy property, or conduct business in the country. In this article, we explain what a NIE number is, why you need it, and how it is used in practice.

What does NIE mean?

NIE stands for Número de Identificación de Extranjero, which can be translated as an identification number for non-citizens. It is a personal and unique number assigned by the Spanish state and administered by the Policía Nacional (National Police) or the Oficina de Extranjería (Immigration Office). It is used as an identification number in most formal and legal contexts where a non-Spanish citizen needs to be identified by Spanish authorities.

You may apply through a representative, but this requires an explicit power of attorney.

When do you need a NIE number?

A NIE number is required in many interactions with Spanish authorities and formal institutions. Here are some common situations where it is needed:

• Buying or selling property in Spain (required by the Property Registry – Registro de la Propiedad)
• Starting employment or registering as self-employed
• Opening a Spanish bank account (required by banks for KYC regulations)
• Paying taxes or registering with the Agencia Tributaria (Spanish Tax Agency)
• Accessing social security and public healthcare through Seguridad Social
• Studying at a university (usually required at registration)
• Importing or exporting vehicles via the Dirección General de Tráfico
• Signing contracts and insurance policies

Please note: the NIE number is not a residence permit, but an administrative identification number that enables participation in the Spanish system.

How does a NIE number work in practice?

Once you have been assigned a NIE number, you receive an official document where the number appears together with your full name, date of birth, and nationality. The number is permanent and does not change—even if your residence status changes over time.

The NIE is used in, among others, the following systems:

• The tax system (Agencia Tributaria) – for income tax returns, VAT, and other taxes
• The Property Registry (Registro de la Propiedad) – when buying or selling property
• The social security system (Seguridad Social) – for registration related to pensions, healthcare, and unemployment benefits
• Formal contracts – rental agreements and subscriptions for electricity, water, telephone, and internet

How to apply for a NIE number

Understanding what a NIE number is is only the first step. The next step is to actually apply for it. We recommend reading our guide on how to obtain a NIE number. Depending on whether you apply from Spain or from abroad, the process differs slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions about NIE (FAQ)

Is a NIE the same as a TIE?

No. A NIE is an identification number. A TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is a physical residence card (primarily for non-EU citizens) that contains your NIE and shows your residence status in Spain. You can have a NIE without having a TIE.

How long is a NIE number valid?

The NIE number is lifelong and does not need to be renewed. However, you may need to request a new copy of the document if you lose it or if an authority requires a recent printout.

Do I have to be in Spain to obtain a NIE?

No. You can apply for a NIE through a Spanish embassy or consulate in your home country. However, processing times are often longer compared to applying directly in Spain.

Is there anything to prepare before applying for a NIE number?

Yes. When applying, you normally need to state why you require the NIE number (e.g. property purchase, banking matters, employment, or tax purposes). You must also not be in Spain in an irregular situation (without valid legal status) at the time of application.