Obtaining a NIE in Spain
Purchasing property abroad is always a significant event that requires careful preparation and an understanding of local rules and regulations. If you’ve decided to buy property in Spain, there are two key steps you will need to take.
Before starting the purchase process, you need to obtain a Foreigner Identification Number (NIE – Número de Identificación de Extranjero) and open a bank account in Spain. These steps are necessary to successfully complete the purchase. Granfield Estate provides full support covering both of these stages.
Obtaining a NIE
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a unique identification number required for foreigners to carry out various legal transactions in Spain, including buying property. This is an important first step in officially securing ownership of your future property. To obtain a NIE in Spain, you must visit the police at the foreigners' department. To be accepted, you need to book an appointment (referred to as a “cita”) on the police website.
Without a cita, you won’t even be allowed into the police building, and only one person is admitted per cita. At the time of writing, the waiting time for a NIE appointment at the police can be up to two months. Additionally, you’ll need to fill out a form and pay the state fee for obtaining the NIE, which is currently €9.87. If you submit an incomplete document package, pay the wrong fee, or arrive late, you’ll have to start the process all over again.
How can we help you?
We are ready to assist you in preparing all the necessary documents, filling out the forms, and processing the payment of the fee. Moreover, we can schedule your NIE appointment in advance. Our lawyers can accompany you on the appointed day or obtain the NIE on your behalf through a power of attorney issued by a Spanish notary.
By the time you arrive, you will have an open bank account and a confirmed NIE appointment, which will significantly simplify the property purchase process and allow you to focus on choosing the right property in Spain.
"First Step" Service Cost
What should be done first — the bank account or the NIE? We recommend tackling both issues simultaneously. The cost of our service for obtaining a NIE and opening a bank account is €590. The first payment is €300, and the remaining amount is payable after the NIE is obtained and the account is opened. This price is valid for EU citizens with verified funds and includes the NIE process for one person. For each additional person, the cost increases by €100. These expenses will be considered if you decide to use our services for the purchase of real estate in Spain.
If you have decided to begin the process of purchasing property in Spain, start with the first step. For more detailed information and to arrange services for obtaining a NIE and opening a bank account in Spain, contact your manager at Granfield Estate. These preliminary steps will help you save time and significantly simplify the further process of finding and acquiring property.