N.I.E.

The N.I.E. (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is a means of identification and also enables records to be kept of any financial dealings you, the resident, might have in Spain. Without it you cannot work, open a bank account or buy property. In fact you will be asked for this number in all your official dealings in Spain. Please note that this also applies to non-residents who have financial dealing in Spain.
You can apply for your N.I.E. at any national police station along the Costa del Sol where you will need to complete a short form. Many people pay a lawyer or gestor (legal administrator) to apply on their behalf, as knowledge of Spanish is generally needed to communicate with staff and to complete the form.
Should you wish to do it yourself, it is recommended that you arrive at the police station early to avoid lengthy queues. Please remember to take your passport along with a photocopy.
Once the form is completed and been handed in, you should be able to collect your N.I.E. one to three months later at the police station. Don’t worry though; while the paper work is being processed you will be given a temporary number so that you can still get on with your life.

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