Volker Horch: The NIE is a personal, unique and exclusive number assigned to foreigners that allows the Spanish Ministry of Finance (Hacienda) to access all required tax procedures. It is one of the main requisites for buying real estate in Spain.
Volker Horch: It is relatively straightforward. You must apply in person at the National Police station in Santa Cruz de la Palma and submit a completed form. You must bring your passport with you, along with two photocopies of it. Afterwards, a processing fee must be paid via a deposit slip at a local bank, and once you provide confirmation of payment, you will receive the NIE certificate.
Volker Horch: It is not; you can also apply by power of attorney, in which case a certified copy of the applicant's passport must be provided. If, in either case, the document was not issued by a Spanish consulate, in addition to legalisation, an apostille must also be presented.
Volker Horch: No, if you do not have Spanish nationality, the NIE is almost constantly necessary in your daily life. If you want to open a bank account, buy a car, set up electricity, or even apply for a fishing licence, you will need a NIE. Therefore, once you have it, it is advisable to memorise it, as it will accompany you constantly during your life in La Palma.
