What is the NIE?
Foreigner Identification Number
The NIE, or "Número de Identidad de Extranjero", is a personal and unique identification number issued by the General Directorate of Police to every foreigner in Spain.
This number is essential for any interaction with public administrations and for most socio-economic and professional transactions between individuals, including the purchase of real estate.
The NIE format includes an initial letter (X, Y, or Z), followed by seven digits and ends with a verification letter, for example 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).
