Temporary NIE number Spain

If you're a foreigner planning to conduct certain activities in Spain but don't yet have a permanent NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) number, a temporary NIE number can be your solution.

This nine-digit number is issued for a limited period and allows you to engage in various tasks during your stay.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of obtaining a temporary NIE number, the activities you can pursue with it, and how to transition to a permanent NIE number if needed.

What is the number NIE

The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is a personal identification number for foreigners who have some kind of relation with Spain, such as economic, professional or social interests.

It was introduced in 2004 by the Royal Decree 2393/2004 on December 30, 2004, which approved the Rules for foreigners in Spain.

The NIE is required for the purchase or sale of real estate, vehicle and boats, or in order to work or study in Spain.

The NIE has changed over time in terms of its format and validity. Before 2007, the NIE card was a green slip of paper with the number and the personal details of the holder. In 2007, a new regulation (Real Decreto 240/2007) established that EU citizens who wished to reside in Spain for more than three months had to register and obtain a certificate of registration (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión), which also included the NIE number.

This certificate was also a green slip of paper, but it had an expiration date of three months. However, this expiration date did not affect the validity of the NIE number, which was permanent.

In 2020, a new regulation (Instrucción DGM 2/2020) introduced a new format for the NIE card for EU citizens, which is now called TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero).

The TIE is a plastic card with a photo and biometric data of the holder, as well as the NIE number.

The TIE is usually valid for one year and has to be renewed before expiration.

The TIE is not mandatory for EU citizens, who can still use their passport or national ID as their identification document, but it is recommended as it facilitates some administrative procedures and proves the legal residence in Spain.

Non-EU citizens have to obtain a TIE if they want to reside in Spain for more than three months.

1. Obtaining a Temporary NIE Number

To obtain a temporary NIE number in Spain, you'll need to follow a specific process. Here are the steps you should take:

Required Documents

When visiting the Oficina de Extranjeros in your area, ensure you have the following documents:

• Your passport
• A visa, if applicable
• A completed application form
• A recent passport-style photograph
• The processing fee (€9,84)

Anuncio

Application Process

1. Visit the Oficina de Extranjeros in your area.
2. Submit the required documents mentioned above.
3. Pay the processing fee of €9,84.
4. After your application is processed, you'll receive a temporary NIE number.
5. Make sure to keep the receipt and the temporary NIE number safe.

Validity and Physical Card

• The temporary NIE number is valid for three months, after which it must be renewed.
• Your temporary NIE number will be printed on a piece of paper, as you won't receive a physical card.

2. Activities Allowed with a Temporary NIE Number

With a temporary NIE number, you can engage in various activities during your stay in Spain. Here are some tasks you can accomplish:

Open a Bank Account

A temporary NIE number enables you to open a bank account in Spain, making it convenient for financial transactions and managing your funds.

Rent a Property

Renting a property becomes possible with a temporary NIE number, giving you the freedom to find suitable accommodation during your stay.

Apply for a Job

If you're interested in working in Spain temporarily, a temporary NIE number allows you to apply for job opportunities and engage in lawful employment.

Get Health Insurance

With a temporary NIE number, you can obtain health insurance coverage in Spain, ensuring access to medical services and peace of mind during your stay.

Register Your Children in School

Temporary NIE numbers enable foreign residents to register their children in Spanish schools, facilitating their education while living in the country.

Buy a Car

If you plan to purchase a car during your stay in Spain, a temporary NIE number is essential for completing the necessary legalities and ownership transfer.

Open a Business

Entrepreneurs can start a business in Spain using a temporary NIE number, allowing them to establish and operate their ventures legally.

Please note that a temporary NIE number does not grant voting rights or travel privileges to other countries in the Schengen area.

3. Transitioning to a Permanent NIE Number

If you're planning an extended stay in Spain, obtaining a permanent NIE number is importante. Here's what you need to know about transitioning from a temporary to a permanent NIE number:

Additional Documentation

To change your temporary NIE number to a permanent one, visit the Oficina de Extranjeros again and provide additional documentation, such as:

• Your residency permit
• Any other required documents specified by the authorities

Follow the instructions provided by the Oficina de Extranjeros to complete the transition process successfully.

Si quieres conocer otros artículos parecidos a Temporary NIE number Spain puedes visitar los contenidos relacionados con Recogida de Tarjeta.