If you are planning to buy property, invest, start a business, or live in Spain, obtaining a Número de Identidad de Extranjero (NIE) is mandatory. The NIE is your official identification number as a foreigner and is used for all legal and financial transactions in Spain. Without it, you cannot complete the purchase of a property, open a bank account, pay taxes, sign utility contracts, or even buy a car.
Below is a direct, step-by-step guide to securing your NIE number efficiently in 2025.
What is an NIE Number?
- NIE stands for “Número de Identidad de Extranjero” – Foreigners’ Identification Number.
- Issued by Spanish authorities to any non-Spanish national with legal or economic interests in Spain.
- Required for buying property, banking, employment, studying, tax payments, business formation, and more.
Who Needs an NIE?
- Anyone buying or inheriting property in Spain.
- Foreign investors and business owners.
- Long-term renters, students, and workers.
- Anyone intending to stay in Spain for longer than a tourist visit.
How to Apply for an NIE Number
1. In Spain (Recommended for Speed)
- Where: Local Comisaría de Policía (Foreigner’s Office) or Oficina de Extranjeros.
- Documents Needed:
- Completed EX-15 application form.
- Valid passport and copy.
- Document justifying the NIE request (property purchase pre-contract, job offer, etc.).
- Proof of payment for the NIE fee (Form 790, code 012).
- Passport photos (not always requested, but advisable).
- Process:
- Book an appointment online (Cita Previa).
- Submit documents in person.
- Receive NIE (printed A4 document) usually within a few days to two weeks, depending on the region.
2. Through the Spanish Consulate Abroad
- Where: Any Spanish Consulate in your home country.
- Documents Needed:
- Same as above, but check specific consulate website for local requirements.
- Process:
- Submit documents and application in person.
- Processing time: Usually 2–6 weeks.
- NIE is delivered either by post or collected in person.
3. Via Power of Attorney (PoA) – Using a Specialist
- If you cannot travel, you can authorize a professional (lawyer or gestor) in Spain via a notarized Power of Attorney.
- They submit the application on your behalf.
- Processing time: as fast as a local application once PoA is legalized and translated.
Our Express NIE Service: Get Your NIE in 48 Hours
For clients who need results fast, we offer a guaranteed NIE service in just 48 hours.
This is the fastest, most reliable option for property buyers, investors, or anyone who cannot afford to wait weeks for paperwork.
How it works:
- We handle the entire process from start to finish.
- Only minimal documentation required from you.
- Only in Alicante
- All legal requirements are covered.
- Secure, confidential, and 100% compliant with Spanish law.
Ideal for:
- Urgent property purchases.
- Time-sensitive investments.
- Relocation on a tight schedule.
Contact us today to get your NIE in 48 hours.
Common Questions
How long does it take?
- In Spain: 4-8 weeks, depending on province.
- Abroad: 6–12 weeks (sometimes longer).
- With our agency: Express NIE in just 48 hours.
What if I only want to buy property?
- A simple pre-purchase reservation or intent-to-buy contract is sufficient reason to apply.
Is it possible to get an NIE without visiting Spain?
- Yes, through the consulate or by granting a Power of Attorney to a local representative.
Key Tips
- Apply as early as possible: Some regions have long appointment wait times.
- Prepare documents carefully: Incomplete submissions delay the process.
- Use professional help for speed: A local gestor or legal expert can streamline the process and avoid costly mistakes.
- For urgent cases, use our express service for a guaranteed result in 48 hours.
We Can Help
Our team specializes in expedited NIE services for property buyers, investors, and expatriates in Spain and Lithuania.
- NIE in Spain: Standard and urgent service
- NIE in Lithuania: Full assistance via the Spanish consulate
- Express NIE: Receive your NIE in 48 hours – guaranteed
- Full support in English, Lithuanian, and Spanish
Contact us for a free consultation and step-by-step assistance.