How to Get an NIE in Almería – Fast & Stress-Free Guide

How to Obtain an NIE in Almería – The Key to Buying Property in Spain

If you’re planning to buy property in Spain, one of the very first things you’ll need is an NIE number. Whether you’re purchasing a holiday home, moving permanently, or investing in real estate, this number is essential to completing any official or financial transaction.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what an NIE is, why it’s so important, and the easiest way to obtain one—especially if you’re buying in the province of Almería.

What Is an NIE?

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a tax identification number assigned to non-Spanish citizens. It’s required for a wide range of activities in Spain, including:

• • Buying or selling property

• • Opening a bank account

• • Setting up utilities (electricity, water, internet)

• • Paying property taxes

• • Signing legal documents

Essentially, if you want to do anything official in Spain, you’ll need an NIE.

Where Do You Get an NIE in Almería?

In Almería, NIEs are issued by the Policía Nacional at designated immigration offices. You can apply:

1. 1. In person at the foreigner’s office (Oficina de Extranjería) in Almería City or at some local police stations

1. 1. Via the Spanish consulate in your home country (can take longer)

1. 1. Through a legal representative with power of attorney

Appointments are made via the Cita Previa system, and wait times can vary from a few days to several weeks depending on demand.

What Documents Do You Need?

To apply for your NIE, you’ll typically need:

• • A completed EX-15 application form

• • A valid passport (with photocopies)

• • Proof of your reason for applying (e.g. property reservation contract or bank document)

• • Completed Modelo 790 Código 012 tax form (with proof of payment—around €9–€12)

• • A passport-sized photograph

Note: Requirements can vary slightly depending on the office and whether you’re applying in person or via a representative.

The Easiest Way: Use a Lawyer with Power of Attorney

While it is possible to apply yourself, the quickest and most hassle-free way to obtain your NIE in Almería is by authorising your conveyancing lawyer to do it for you through power of attorney (poder notarial).

With power of attorney, your lawyer can:

• • Attend the police appointment on your behalf

• • Handle all paperwork and tax forms

• • Collect your NIE once issued

• • Begin property transactions even if you haven’t arrived in Spain yet

This is especially useful if you’re abroad or unfamiliar with Spanish bureaucracy. It ensures the process is completed correctly and promptly, often saving you time, stress, and travel costs.

How Long Does It Take?

If everything is submitted correctly, NIEs are usually issued within:

• • 1–2 weeks when processed via a local lawyer with power of attorney

• • Up to a month or longer if applying via a Spanish consulate abroad

• • A few weeks when applying yourself, depending on appointment availability

Final Thoughts

Obtaining an NIE is a crucial first step when buying property in Almería or anywhere in Spain. While the process is straightforward in theory, it can be time-consuming and confusing—especially if you’re unfamiliar with Spanish paperwork.

At Medimar Homes, we recommend using a trusted conveyancing lawyer who can act on your behalf via power of attorney. It’s the simplest, most efficient route—allowing you to focus on finding your ideal property while everything is taken care of professionally.

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