Do I need a NIE to buy property in Spain?

Yes — a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is required for every foreign buyer purchasing property in Spain. It's a tax identification number assigned to non-citizens by the Spanish police.

You can apply for an NIE at any Spanish consulate before you travel, or in Spain at the police station (Comisaría de Policía) once you arrive. Online appointment booking is required at most consulates; turnaround is usually 2–4 weeks.

You will need: a completed EX-15 form, a passport, proof of why you need the NIE (e.g. an estate-agent letter or reservation contract), and the application fee (~€10–12).

Without a NIE, you cannot sign a deed of sale (escritura), open a Spanish bank account, or pay property taxes.