If you’re buying real estate in Spain, you need an NIE. The NIE number (NĂşmero de IdentificaciĂłn de Extranjero) is a legal tax ID that every foreigner must obtain before completing a property purchase in Madrid.
At Borderless Lawyers, we help foreign buyers get their NIE efficiently — either in person or remotely via Power of Attorney.
âť“ What Is the NIE Number?
The NIE is your Spanish tax identification number. It’s required for:
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Signing the property deed at the notary
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Paying property taxes (ITP or IVA)
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Registering the property
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Opening a bank account in Spain
Without it, the purchase cannot be completed legally.
🇪🇸 Who Needs an NIE to Buy in Madrid?
Every non-Spanish citizen — both EU and non-EU — needs an NIE to:
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Buy any type of real estate (apartment, house, land)
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Own property in their name
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Be recorded at the Land Registry
Even if you’re using a lawyer or POA, the NIE is still mandatory.
âś… How to Apply for an NIE in Madrid
There are two main ways:
Option 1: Apply in Person in Spain
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Book an appointment with PolicĂa Nacional in Madrid
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Submit EX-15 form, passport copy, and a valid reason (property purchase)
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Pay a small government fee (€9.84)
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Pick up the NIE (usually ready in 1–2 weeks)
🧾 You’ll also need a Spanish address for delivery or collection.
Option 2: Apply Remotely via Power of Attorney
Let Borderless Lawyers apply on your behalf:
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No travel required
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NIE issued directly to your legal representative
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We file, collect, and translate the document for your records
This is ideal if you are still abroad or planning to buy remotely.
đź“… When Should I Get the NIE?
Apply early in the process — ideally before signing the arras contract. Although it’s not required at the reservation stage, you must have it before:
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Signing the public deed at the notary
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Paying taxes after the sale
⏱️ It can take 1–4 weeks depending on availability and backlog.
🧑‍⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Helps
With our legal team in Madrid:
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We apply for your NIE via POA
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Handle all paperwork in Spanish
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Monitor your appointment and collection
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Deliver your NIE securely by email or courier
đź“Ś NIE services are always included in our full legal property packages.
đź’¶ What Does It Cost?
| NIE Service | Price Range |
|---|---|
| DIY (in-person) application | €9.84 (gov. fee only) |
| Through Borderless Lawyers (POA) | Included in package |
We also provide the required Spanish Power of Attorney draft at no extra cost.
đź’¬ Final Word
Getting your NIE number is the first legal step in buying property in Madrid. Without it, you can’t register your purchase, pay taxes, or complete the sale.
At Borderless Lawyers, we make the process fast, secure, and remote — so you can move forward without delay.
đź“ž Contact us now to get your NIE and start your Madrid property journey the right way.