NIE is an abbreviation for Número de identidad de extranjero, which translates as ‘Identification number for foreigners’. The main purpose of the NIE for Spain is fiscal control. Without a Spanish NIE number, the Spanish tax authorities are unable to assess or process annual tax payments such as income tax (IRPF). Not paying your taxes can incur heavy fines.
Any foreigner who becomes resident for tax purposes in Spain needs an NIE number in Spain.
Any non-resident foreigner who buys property in Spain needs an NIE number. If a couple buys a property in Spain together, and they register the property in both their names, then both of them must obtain an NIE number in Spain.
If you are buying property in Spain, then you need to have an NIE number by the time you sign the deeds of purchase, or escritura, before a notary.
Getting your NIE number in time for signing the escritura means applying at least 1 month before hand if you are applying in Spain, and at least 2 months before hand if you are applying via a consulate abroad. The actual time it takes depends upon where you apply, and the time of the year.
Applying in person for an NIE number whilst in Spain is a relatively straightforward procedure. The only inconvenience is that you may have to wait for up to several hours in a queue in order to submit your application. It does depend upon the police station where you apply, and the time of day (early is better).
You have to go to one of the immigration offices (oficinas de extranjeros) that are usually found in designated police stations (comisaría de policía), preferably in the area where you are buying your property. If there is no immigration office in your area then it should be possible to make your application through a local police station. In any event the local police station will be able to tell you the best place to go to apply for an NIE in your area.
You will need: your Passport, plus a photocopy of the main page with your photograph and personal details on; 2 recent passport size colour photos; documentation justifying your reason for applying (if you are buying a property, the private purchase contract will do); 2 copies of the official application form Ex-14, which you can download here: http://www.mir.es/SGACAVT/modelos/extranjeria/modelos_extranje/ex_14.pdf
Normally you will be able to collect your NIE number from the office where you made your application anytime from 15 days later (in some areas, at some times of the year, it may take longer, which is why we recommend applying a month in advance). You do not have to collect your NIE in person – anyone can collect it for you if they have the official receipt you were given when you submitted your application.
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When buying a property with Property Point Marbella, once you have found that ideal property our multi- lingual after sales team will be able to assist in all aspects of completing the purchase from sourcing furniture to accompanying you to the notary. Our range of services extend to maintaining the property, key holding, rental service and if you require a complete renovation or a light makeover.
We know that any property purchase can be a source of stress, even in your own country of residence, where you are familiar with the system. Our aim is to provide our clients with the best platform possible and ensure we take every measure and make your purchase a stress free process from start to finish.
Visit our website www.propertypointmarbella.com to find out more
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