Getting Started in Spain — NIE, Registration & First Steps
Your first weeks in Spain involve more paperwork than anyone warned you about. We cut through it — step by step, in English.
Book a ConsultationWhat's covered in this consultation
- ✓ NIE/TIE number: what it is, how to get it, where to go in Madrid
- ✓ Empadronamiento: address registration and why it matters for everything else
- ✓ Bank account: which banks are expat-friendly and what documents you need
- ✓ Social Security number: when you need it and how to get it
- ✓ Tax status: are you already a tax resident? What does that mean for you?
How It Works
Send a WhatsApp or book a free intro call
Describe your situation in a few lines. We'll confirm we can help and suggest the right consultation type. No commitment required — the first reply is always free.
We listen in your language and map your situation
Tell us everything. We speak English, Ukrainian, Spanish, Russian, Polish, Italian and Bulgarian. We'll ask the right questions and give you a complete picture of your legal and tax position.
You leave with a clear action plan
Not 'consult a lawyer.' Specific next steps, documents needed, deadlines to know, and — if your case needs full legal handling — a direct introduction to the LexDixit team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting a NIE appointment in Madrid currently takes 2–8 weeks depending on the police station and season. We help you prepare everything so your appointment goes smoothly — and advise on faster options when available.
Most NIE appointments in Madrid require a cita previa booked online. However, some police stations do allow walk-ins at certain times. We'll advise you on the current situation and best strategy.
The basic documents are: valid passport + copy, completed application form (EX-15 for NIE or EX-17 for TIE), proof of purpose (e.g. employment contract, lease, or similar), fee payment receipt (Modelo 790 código 012). Requirements vary by case — we provide a personalised checklist in your consultation.
Technically no — some banks will open an account with just your passport. However, having a NIE makes the process much easier and is required for most Spanish bank products. We recommend getting your NIE as one of your very first steps.
No. The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a tax identification number — a number only. The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is a physical residence card that also contains your NIE. EU citizens typically get a NIE; non-EU residents get a TIE.
There are several options: some agencies offer NIE processing services with faster access to appointments; you can often proceed with many steps (like opening a bank account) without a NIE; emergency NIE procedures exist in some cases. We discuss all options in your Getting Started consultation.
Free express diagnostic of your situation
In 15 minutes we'll tell you whether this solution fits you and what to do next. Send us a WhatsApp — we usually reply within 2 hours.