At Lextax, a law firm specialized in immigration law, we help you obtain your NIE in Spain quickly, safely, and with personalized service—no matter where you are in the world.
What is the NIE in Spain and what is it for?
The NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) is a unique and personal number required for all foreign citizens to carry out legal, tax, and professional procedures in Spain. It is mandatory for both short-term stays and long-term relocation.
Important: The NIE does not grant the right to reside or work in Spain on its own. It is a preliminary requirement for obtaining residency permits or visas such as the digital nomad visa, non-lucrative visa, or investment residence permit.
Who needs a NIE?
You need a NIE if you are a citizen of:
- 🇺🇸 United States
- 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
- 🇨🇦 Canada
- 🇦🇺 Australia
And you wish to carry out any of the following actions in Spain:
- Purchase property or real estate.
- Open a Spanish bank account.
- Legally work or accept a job offer.
- Invest or start a business.
- Apply for temporary or permanent residence.
- Submit tax returns or pay taxes.
- Access the healthcare or social security system.
Types of NIE: Resident and Non-Resident
- Non-resident NIE: Ideal for those who want to buy property or start a business in Spain without living there permanently.
- Resident NIE: For those planning to live in Spain long-term—retirees, remote workers, investors, students, or employees.
Required Documents for the NIE
Lextax will handle the preparation and review of all necessary documentation, which typically includes:
- Completed EX-15 application form.
- Proof of payment of fees (Form 790).
- Full copy of your passport.
- Document proving your economic, professional, or social interest (e.g. property purchase contract, job offer letter, etc.).
- In some cases, proof of entry into Spain (passport stamp or plane ticket).
Can I apply for the NIE from abroad?
Yes. At Lextax, we offer the possibility to apply for your NIE before arriving in Spain, via notarial legal representation. This is especially useful for U.S., U.K., Canadian, or Australian citizens who want to be fully prepared before traveling.
Why choose Lextax to process your NIE?
- ✔️ 100% service in English and Spanish.
- ✔️ Application management from abroad or within Spain.
- ✔️ Legal representation without your physical presence.
- ✔️ Expertise in visas, Golden Visa, digital nomad residency, and more.
- ✔️ Nationwide service: Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga, Valencia, Alicante, Palma, Seville, and more.
Planning to move to Spain? Start with the NIE
Whether you plan to retire on the Costa del Sol, work remotely from Barcelona, invest in Valencia, or start a business in Madrid, the NIE is the first legal step in your journey to Spain.
Trust Lextax for full legal support—fast, professional, and crystal clear. Our team will guide you from the first contact until you receive your NIE.
👉 Apply for your NIE today with Lextax and get ready for your new life in Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions about the NIE in Spain
What is the NIE and why do I need it in Spain?
It’s a mandatory identification number for foreigners in Spain, required for legal, tax, and professional activities.
Can I get a NIE without being in Spain?
Yes. You can apply remotely through a power of attorney. Lextax handles the entire process on your behalf.
How long does it take to get the NIE?
Typically 1 to 3 weeks, depending on location and whether you apply from abroad or within Spain.
What documents are needed for the NIE?
Passport, EX-15 form, fee payment proof, and documents proving your economic or legal interest in Spain.