ID & numbers in Spain: the steps, from official sources
What applies everywhere in Spain on id & numbers, each with the official page that confirms it, then the regions whose own rules add to it.
Your plan, in your order. Documents, offices, hours and fees for your city, for your passport and visa.
Open the guideAcross Spain
Obtain a NIE (foreigner identification number)
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is the personal, unique number that identifies a foreigner in all Spanish administrative, tax, work and social dealings; if you do not already have one, you request it from…
Understand your Spanish tax ID (NIF) and when your NIE serves as one
The NIF is Spain’s tax identification number; for most foreign residents the NIE assigned to them is the number used as NIF, and only people who legally have no NIE need the tax agency to assign a separate NIF.
Short visits from family and friends: who needs a Schengen visa
Family and friends from many non-EU countries need a short-stay (Schengen) visa to visit you.
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