4 min read
NIE and empadronamiento: your first steps in Spain
The NIE is the number that identifies you as a foreigner to the Spanish authorities. You need it for almost everything: opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, buying a home or paying taxes.
What is the NIE?
The Número de Identidad de Extranjero (foreigner identity number) is personal, unique and does not expire. Careful: having a NIE does not mean you are a resident. It is only an identification number; the right to live in Spain is a separate procedure.
How to get it
- Form EX-15 and payment of fee 790 code 012 (about €12).
- An appointment (cita previa) at a foreigners' office or police station, or at the Spanish consulate in your country if you are not in Spain yet.
- A valid passport or ID card and proof of the reason (purchase, work, study, inheritance…).
Empadronamiento
Empadronarse means registering on the municipal register (padrón) of the town where you live. It is free and you only need your ID and a rental contract, title deed or the owner's authorisation. The padrón certificate is requested for many procedures: residency, healthcare, school, pareja de hecho.
Common mistakes
- Turning up without an appointment: in many cities, slots go very quickly.
- Forgetting photocopies of each document.
- Thinking the NIE lets you live in Spain: it does not.
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