The Número de Identificación de Extranjero is your identification number in Spain. It is not a residency document and it does not by itself entitle you to live here.
Banks, notaries and the land registry all require it, which is why it sits early in the process.
How it is obtained
Applications are normally made in person at a police station or through a Spanish consulate in your home country. Appointments can be limited in peak periods.
Many buyers appoint a lawyer or representative to apply on their behalf under power of attorney, which avoids a separate trip.
