NIE Marbella FAQs

Answers to advanced frequently asked questions to help you get your Spanish NIE Number online

Can I use my NIE number for tax purposes in Spain?

Yes, but only if it’s activated with the Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria). This process is known as NIE activation as NIF, and it’s required for invoicing, filing taxes or registering as self-employed in Spain.

What is the Tasa 790 form and do I need to pay it?

Yes, it’s mandatory. The Tasa 790 – Código 012 is the official government fee required to process your NIE application. It must be paid at a Spanish bank before your appointment or submitted paperwork.

Can I authorize someone to get the NIE for me?

Yes. With a Power of Attorney (POA), a legal representative or gestoría can apply for your NIE on your behalf — ideal if you’re not yet in Spain.

What happens if I lose my NIE number?

You don’t lose your NIE number, but you may need to request a duplicate certificate if the document is lost. The NIE itself never changes; it is linked to you permanently.

Is the NIE valid forever?

Yes, your NIE number never expires, but the certificate document may have an expiration date for specific procedures (like car purchases). A new copy can be requested if needed.

Can I work in Spain with just a NIE?

Not necessarily. The NIE is a number — it does not grant work authorization. If you’re a non-EU citizen, you will need a work permit or residence visa with work rights in addition to the NIE.

Is it mandatory to register at the local town hall (Padrón) after getting my NIE?

Yes, if you’re staying long-term. The Padrón (empadronamiento) is a local registration that shows where you live in Spain and is often required for residency, healthcare, and other administrative processes.

Is it possible to get my NIE in less than a week?

Yes, with our Priority Service, you can get your NIE in as fast as 3 business days, even if you’re not in Spain. All paperwork, POA, and document delivery are included.

Can I open a bank account in Spain with only a NIE? 

Yes, most banks require a valid NIE certificate and a valid passport. Some may ask for proof of address or a utility bill. Having a NIE simplifies the account opening process significantly.

Can I get a NIE if I’m a digital nomad? 

Yes. If you are applying for a digital nomad visa or plan to work remotely in Spain, a NIE is mandatory to legalize your economic activities and access services.

Is the NIE needed for buying a car or property in Spain? 

Yes, it is essential. You cannot register a car, buy property, or sign official documents without a valid NIE number.

Can children or minors get a NIE? 

Yes, minors can be issued a NIE if it’s necessary (e.g., for school enrollment, family reunification, or property acquisition). A parent or guardian must apply on their behalf.

Does the NIE certificate need to be translated? 

Usually no, unless you're submitting it to a foreign authority or translating your full documentation into another language. In Spain, it’s accepted in Spanish.

What if I move to another region in Spain after obtaining my NIE? 

You don’t need a new NIE, but it’s advisable to update your address via the town hall (Padrón) and inform tax or immigration authorities.

Do I need an appointment to apply for the NIE? 

Yes. Appointments (Cita Previa) are required and must be booked in advance through the official government website.

Is it safe to use a gestoría to get my NIE? 

Yes, a reputable gestoría ensures proper documentation, avoids errors, and speeds up the process — especially valuable if you don’t speak Spanish or are outside Spain.

Can I receive my NIE by email?

Yes, especially if you apply through a gestoría or legal representative. The scanned copy is sent digitally, and the physical original can be delivered via mail or courier.

What if I already had a NIE but I don’t remember it?

You can request a duplicate by contacting the immigration office or working with a gestoría. They will retrieve your NIE record and issue a copy of the certificate.

Do I need an address in Spain to apply for a NIE?

Not necessarily. In most cases, you can apply with a temporary or correspondence address, but for certain procedures, a Spanish address may be required.

These questions aim to clarify complex aspects of the NIE process, helping EU and non-EU nationals properly prepare for legal procedures in Spain — especially in Marbella and the Costa del Sol — including tax registration, home buying, healthcare access, local padrón registration, visa and residency paperwork, and overall compliance with regional requirements to ensure a smooth and secure relocation.