How do I get an NIE number in Spain?

An NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is the foreigner tax-ID number required for nearly any significant transaction in Spain — buying property, opening a bank account, signing at the notary, paying property tax. It is not residency; it is an identification number. How to get one (two routes): 1. In Spain — book a cita previa (appointment) at a Policía Nacional immigration office (Extranjería), submit form EX-15, your passport (+ copy), proof of the reason (e.g. a property reservation contract), and pay the Modelo 790 código 012 fee (around €10). You typically receive the NIE the same day or within a few days. 2. Abroad — apply through the Spanish consulate in your country of residence; processing times vary by consulate and are usually slower. Practical notes: many buyers grant a power of attorney to a Spanish lawyer to obtain the NIE on their behalf — common and efficient for non-residents. Appointments (cita previa) are the usual bottleneck; book early. The NIE itself does not expire, though the paper certificate may need re-issuing. Always confirm current requirements with the official source: the Spanish Ministry of the Interior / Policía Nacional (policia.es) or your nearest Spanish consulate. This is general information, not legal advice. Related: Buying process for property in Spain · Costs of owning property — Avena Terminal (avenaterminal.com)