Anyone planning a longer stay in Spain or wishing to move to Spain will need to apply for an N.I.E. In Spain, the N.I.E. serves as a tax identification number and is therefore required for virtually all administrative procedures. Although the N.I.E. is often mistakenly equated with the term “Residencia”, the N.I.E. is simply your personal tax and identification number.
There are generally two ways to apply for an N.I.E.:
A) If you meet the requirements for applying for “Residencia”, i.e. for establishing your permanent residence in Spain, you may apply for the N.I.E. at the same time as you apply for your Residencia. As soon as you apply for “Residencia”, i.e. registration in the Central Register of Foreign Nationals, you will be assigned a Foreign National Identification Number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero: N.I.E.), which also serves as your Spanish tax identification number.
Since 2012, various conditions must be met when applying for an N.I.E. and Residencia. Further information about applying for Residencia can be found in the article: [Applying for Spanish “Residencia”].
B) If you do not yet meet the requirements for obtaining Residencia (planned self-employment, employment contract, etc.) or if you only require the N.I.E. for administrative purposes without intending to establish your residence in Spain, you may apply for it at any time through the Policía Nacional, the Spanish tax authorities or Spanish diplomatic missions in Germany.
An N.I.E. is always required in Spain if you wish to purchase a property, register as self-employed, file tax returns, etc.
Required documents:
- Form (EX-15) completed and signed.
- Identity card or passport (original and copy)
- Proof of payment and a fee of €10
- Statement of the reasons for applying: personal, business or family reasons.
Steps for applying in Spain:
1. Make an appointment:
Link: Online appointment booking
Select your region and the relevant authority.
Under “TRÁMITE”, select: “POLICIA- CERTIFICADOS Y ASIGNACIÓN NIE”.
2. Pay the fee:
Link: Fee payment form.
On the form, select: “Asignación de Número de Identidad de Extranjero (NIE) a instancia del interesado.”
3. Complete Form EX-15 and submit the application.
Bring a printed copy of your appointment confirmation.
Bring two copies of the Form (EX-15) together with copies of your identity card.
If applicable, bring proof of the reason for applying (property reservation agreement, service agreement for registering as self-employed, etc.).
Obtaining the N.I.E. through a power of attorney:
The N.I.E. may also be applied for through a notarised power of attorney. The power of attorney may be granted either directly in Spain or from abroad. Applications may be submitted on behalf of clients through our law firm or through third-party service providers.
Our law firm would be pleased to assist you in analysing your specific situation and submitting the relevant tax returns. If you are interested or have specific questions regarding this matter, please feel free to contact us by email or telephone. Assistance is available in German.
Author:
Nicole Gottschling
Management & Non-Resident
info@sspartners.es
Tel: (+34) 951 12 13 06
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