What Is a NIF in Spain?
The NIF (Número de Identificación Fiscal) is the Spanish tax identification number used by:
-
Individuals (Spanish citizens and residents)
-
Foreign companies and legal entities doing business in Spain
📌 The NIF is essential for tax filing, business operations, banking, and government communications.
👤 NIF for Individuals
🔹 Spanish Citizens
The NIF is the same as the DNI (National Identity Document), including a control letter.
🔹 Foreign Residents
Issued automatically upon getting a residence permit or NIE. Your NIE serves as your NIF.
🔹 Non-Residents
Must request a NIF for tax purposes — often needed to:
-
Buy property
-
Receive inheritance
-
Earn Spanish-source income
-
Represent a business
✅ Non-residents use the NIE format as their NIF once registered with the Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria).
🏢 NIF for Companies
Foreign companies operating in Spain must obtain a NIF before:
-
Opening a branch or subsidiary
-
Hiring employees
-
Signing contracts
-
Opening a Spanish bank account
-
Paying VAT or corporate tax
🗂️ Required for:
-
Spanish SL/SA companies
-
Foundations, associations
-
International investors or importers
📝 How to Apply for a NIF in Spain
Option 1: 📍 Apply in Spain
-
Go to the Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria) office
-
Bring required documents (see below)
-
Complete Form 030 (individuals) or Form 036/037 (companies)
Option 2: 🌍 Apply from Abroad
-
Apply via a Spanish consulate
-
Or appoint a tax representative in Spain
🕒 Processing time: usually 1–3 working days
📄 Required Documents
For Individuals:
-
Passport or EU ID
-
NIE (if resident) or justification for needing a NIF
-
Tax Form 030
-
Address in Spain (can be temporary)
-
Appointment confirmation (Cita previa)
For Companies:
-
Company deed and translation
-
Tax Form 036 or 037
-
Proof of legal representative (POA if applicable)
-
Spanish address or representative agent
📌 Foreign documents must be translated and may need apostille/legalization.
⚖️ Borderless Lawyers Can Help
We assist individuals, investors, and international companies with NIF registration in Spain:
✅ Form preparation and tax filing
✅ Power of attorney service for remote applications
✅ Representation before the Tax Agency
✅ Bilingual document handling
✅ Fast-track appointments and legal compliance
🛡️ Trusted by expats, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and global investors.
💼 Real-World Example
Case: A Canadian tech startup needed a NIF to sign a service contract with a Madrid-based client.
➡️ We secured their NIF in 2 days, enabling immediate business operations and bank account setup.
📞 Need Help Getting a NIF in Spain?
Avoid delays and confusion. Our team handles NIF registrations for private individuals and legal entities — locally or remotely.