What is NIE?

Foreign national identification number

The NIE, or "Número de Identidad de Extranjero", is a unique personal identification number issued by the Directorate General of Police to every foreigner in Spain. 

This number is essential for all interactions with public administrations and for most socio-economic and professional transactions between private individuals, including the purchase of real estate.

The NIE format consists of an initial letter (X, Y or Z), followed by seven digits and ending with a verification letter, e.g. Y6671688B. 

This number remains valid throughout your life for all your activities in Spain. The NIE is both a physical identification number (NIE) and a tax identification number (NIF).