Anyone who wants to buy a property in Mallorca or start a business in Spain will sooner or later come across the term NEVER - the Número de Identificación de ExtranjeroThis personal identification number is essential for foreigners who want to carry out legal transactions in Spain. In this blog post you will learn everything you need to know about the NIE and how to apply for it step by step.
1. What is the NIE?
The NIE number is an identification number issued by the Spanish government to all foreigners who do financial activities in Spain. Whether you want to buy a property, apply for a mortgage, open a business or pay taxes, nothing works in Spain without this number.
The NIE serves as a kind of tax number for foreigners in Spain and is required for both legal and tax matters. It is valid permanently and accompanies you in all your transactions in the country.
2. Why do I need a NIE in Mallorca?
If you want to buy a property in Mallorca, the NIE number is essential. It is required for:
- The purchase contract of a property
- Applying for mortgages
- Opening a bank account
- Registration with the utility companies (water, electricity, etc.)
- Paying taxes
In addition, the NIE is also required when opening a company in Spain or starting a job.
3. How do I apply for a NIE in Mallorca?
There are several ways to apply for the NIE – either in person in Spain, through an authorized representative or at a Spanish consulate abroad.
Option 1: In person in Spain
If you are already in Mallorca, you can apply for the NIE directly at one of the competent authorities:
- Foreigners’ Office (Oficina de Extranjeros) or
- Police stations with foreigners’ department (Comisaría de Policía)
You will need the following documents:
- Valid passport or original identity card and a copy.
- Form EX-15: This is the official application form that you can download online or get on site. It must be filled in and signed.
- Form 790: Another form to pay a small processing fee (around €10-15). This form can also be filled out online and then paid at the bank.
- Reason: You must provide proof of why you need the NIE – e.g. a letter from a real estate agent confirming the purchase of a property.
Option 2: Application via an authorized representative
If you do not want to apply yourself or are not yet in Spain, you can also appoint a lawyer or other trusted person in Spain to apply for the NIE on your behalf. To do so, you must issue a power of attorney authorizing this person to act on your behalf.
Option 3: Apply at a Spanish consulate
Alternatively, you can apply for the NIE at a Spanish consulate in your home country. This is often a good option if you want to start the purchasing process while abroad. Processing times vary and it may take a few weeks to receive the NIE number.
4. Processing time and validity
The processing time for the NIE varies depending on the authority, but you should generally expect it to take about two to four weeks. If you apply for the number in person in Mallorca, it may be issued more quickly.
Once obtained, the NIE is valid indefinitely, so you do not need to renew it regularly and it is valid for all future legal transactions in Spain.
5. Important information on using the NIE
- The NIE is not a residence permit! It is simply an identification number for tax and legal purposes.
- Even if you receive the NIE, you are not automatically liable to pay taxes in Spain. Tax obligations only arise if you spend more than 183 days a year in Spain or earn income in Spain.
Conclusion: The NIE as the key to your business in Mallorca
Applying for a NIE number is an essential step for anyone who wants to buy a property in Mallorca or carry out other economic activities in Spain. The process is straightforward and easy to complete with the right documentation. Once you have received your NIE, you are officially ready to put your property plans in Mallorca into action.
Do you have any further questions about the NIE or buying property in Mallorca? We at MD Real Estate Projects We are happy to support you in the processing of your property purchases and are at your side with our many years of experience. Contact us for a non-binding consultation!