The NIE is the administrative key for any foreigner in Spain. For a property purchase, it is simply compulsory: the notary cannot sign the deed without the buyer's NIE, and you will then need it for taxes, banking and contracts.
Two ways to get it
From France, via the Spanish consulate. You book an appointment at the consulate covering your area (Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Toulouse…), fill in form EX-15, and attach your passport or identity card and a document supporting the application, for example a letter relating to your planned purchase. The fee is paid using form 790. Processing times vary by consulate, from a few days to several weeks.
In Spain, locally. The application is made at an authorised National Police station or an oficina de extranjería (foreigners' office), by appointment (cita previa). It is often quicker once you have the appointment, but slots are scarce in high season on the Costa Brava.
The third way: power of attorney
You can also appoint someone in Spain to apply for the NIE on your behalf, with a notarised power of attorney. Handy when consular waiting times grow longer and your purchase timetable gets tighter.
Our practical tips
- Start the process at the beginning of your search, not when you make an offer.
- Keep the document safe: the number is assigned for life.
- Every buyer needs their own NIE: for a couple buying together, you need two.
The NIE is easy to get when you start early, and stressful when you leave it late. It is the very first box to tick.
