What is NIE?
It is an identification number
for foreigners in Spain
NIE is the only residency requirement. When you move to Barcelona or any other Spanish city, getting a NIE should be one of your first steps
It is an identification number
You need a NIE to:
- Work
- Be self employed
- Open a bank account (with some exceptions)
- Buy or sell property
- Arrange a loan or mortgage
- Start a business
- Apply for a driver’s license
- Registration in social services, receive benefits
- Open utility accounts
- Apply for Bicing
Why can't I get NIE
in Spain on my own?
You can, but it can take a lot longer than promised in extranjería:
More difficult than schedulling the appointment is understanding what documents you need to take with you in order to complete the application process. The application and documents for the NIE can differ from area to area and also depends on your nationality
NIE Number vs NIE Card
For the EU passports holders there are two types of
NIE. You can get a NIE «number» or a NIE «card»:
A NIE number is just a number assigned for
administrative purposes: purchase property, investment,
tax payment
A NIE card is a little green card also referred to as a
residency certificate or residency card for life in Spain. This residency certificate is equivalent to a NIF — the ID card for Spanish citizens