Legal Advice
Our services offer you professional advice through a law firm in your language to ensure that everything is transparent for you and that all your questions are answered. Our lawyers will review all documents for the purchasing process, including the purchase contract, and assist you in applying for your N.I.E. number.
What does N.I.E. mean?
The abbreviation N.I.E. stands for "Número de Identidad de Extranjero," which translates to "Foreigner Identification Number." This number is an important identification and tax number for foreigners in Spain.
The N.I.E. is valid indefinitely, personal, and non-transferable. It is managed by the Spanish Foreigners' Central Registry, operated by the General Directorate of Police and the Guardia Civil. The N.I.E. also serves as the tax identification number (NIF) for individuals without Spanish citizenship.
When communicating with Spanish authorities, institutions, or companies, the N.I.E. must be provided. For example, it is needed to purchase real estate or vehicles, to register for utility services such as water, telephone, or electricity, and most importantly, to pay taxes to the Spanish government.
Without a valid N.I.E. number, Spanish tax authorities cannot assess or process annual tax payments such as income tax (IRPF) and property tax (Patrimonio), which must be declared by both residents and non-residents.