Up until recently British citizens buying a property in Spain were able to do so before obtaining an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero or Foreigner's Identity Number). However, Spanish law now dictates that all foreigners buying a property in Spain obtain an NIE prior to completion of their purchase. It is advisable to apply for your NIE well before you are looking to buy a property as the procedure can take up to six weeks, which may well delay completion.

Why do I need an NIE?

To set up utility connections for electricity, gas and telephone

To purchase a vehicle

To apply for a business permit

To make purchases above €3,000

To inherit any Spanish assets

To apply for a Spanish driving licence

To deal with the tax authority

These are just a few instances where you will be required to provide your NIE number; there are many other occasions when it may be requested.

How do I apply for an NIE?

Applications are made, in person, at the Oficina de Extranjeros (Foreigners' Department) at your nearest Policía Nacional (National Police Headquarters). Previously this involved a long queue, often starting very early in the morning, as only the first 50 applicants were processed each day, but this restriction has now been lifted.

You need to complete and photocopy the application form, which can be downloaded here, take both the original and photocopy, along with your passport (plus a photocopy) to the police station, whereby they will stamp it, return a copy to you and ask you to collect the number at a later date. When you do return you must take your copy of the form and your passport with you. For help in completing the form click here.

It is possible, though not advisable, to apply for your NIE whilst still in your home country, either through your local Spanish consulate or directly to the Central Police Headquarters in Madrid. If you send your application to Madrid you must also include two recent passport sized photos and a self addressed envelope. If you apply through the Spanish consulate you will also need to supply an A4 sized envelope addressed to the Central Police Headquarters, for onward transmission of the relevant documents.

Once you have collected your NIE document, it is advisable to make several photocopies and file the original in a safe place. You must advise the local Policía Nacional of any changes to your address.

Please see below for the addresses of the Central Police Headquarters in Madrid and the Spanish consulates located in the UK.

Comisaría General de Extranjería y Documentación
Dirección General de Policia
C/ General Pardiñas, 90
28006 Madrid
Spain

Residents in the North of the UK apply to:-

The Spanish Consulate General
1 Brooks House
70 Spring Gardens
Manchester, M2 2BQ

Tel: 0161 236 1233

Residents in the South of the UK, Wales and Northern Ireland apply to:-

The Spanish Consulate General
20 Draycott Place
London SW3 2RZ

Tel: 020 7589 8989

Residents of Scotland apply to:-

The Spanish Consulate General
63 North Castle Street
Edinburgh, EH2 3LJ

Tel: 0131 220 1843