When you buy something in Spain for the first time, you will need to apply for a NIE number. This article discusses how to apply for this number.
What is an NIE number?
An NIE number is a unique non-resident identification number for Spanish taxes purposes. For example, when you buy a property in Spain, you will initially pay the annual non-resident taxes are due. Without a Spanish identification number, you cannot pay the purchase taxes. If you buy a property together with several people (e.g. with your partner), you will both need a NIE number.
There are four ways to apply for a NIE number.
In Spain
When you are in Spain, you can apply for a NIE number through the local police station. You need to be present in person. This is the easiest way if you are present in Spain and have plenty of time to finanlize the purchase.
For a purchase, in practice, between signing the reservation contract and private purchase contract are a period during which legal checks on the property are carried out. Within that period, the appointment is made. It happens that you go to get the NIE number a day before the appointment with the notary.
In your home country
Another way to apply for your NIE number is through the Spanish consulate in your home country. In practice, this is the cheapest way to apply for the identification number, but also the slowest. Securing an appointment in a consulate usually takes about two months. After your visit to the consulate, you will receive the NIE number via e-mail within 20 days.
Through a power of attorney in Spain
The easiest way to apply for a NIE number is through a notarised power of attorney in Spain. After you sign the reservation contract, for example, you give your local counsel a power of attorney through the notary. It is then common for you to give a power of attorney at once for the complete handling of the transaction, so you do not have to go to the notary yourself to finalise the purchase.
Read more about a notarized power of attorney.
Via a power of attorney in your home country
You can also obtain a notarised power of attorney in your home country, for example, to apply for a NIE number. This power of attorney must then be legalised so that the power of attorney is valid before the notary in Spain. Obviously, this method is the most expensive as it involves two notaries.
What forms do I need to fill in?
You need to prepare Form EX15 and Form 790-12, this per applicant.
