SOLICITORS

Before making a final decision about the property you wish to purchase, we would recommend you speak with a solicitor to advise you about the legal process and all the costs involved. It is always good to have a solicitor recommended to you by family or friends however most people who purchase in Spain have no previous connections to Spain and may not know of a reputable solicitor. We are pleased to take you to meet a qualified independent Spanish solicitor who can speak your language and with whom you can liaise directly. They will help you with every aspects of the purchase including paperwork legalities, NIE (see below)  and small things such as setting up water and electric accounts.

WEHAT IS AN NIE AND HOW DO I APPLY FOR IT ?

Spanish law means it is necessary for anyone buying or selling a property in Spain to have a NIE (Numero de Identidad de Extranjeros). This simply means "Identity Number for Foreigners". The NIE is just a piece of paper with your name and number and a official stamp. You will also need the NIE to do other things such as open bank accounts, buy a car or take out a mobile phone contract.

The way you obtain the NIE varies depending on the town you are buying in. Sometimes it may require you making a trip to the local police station or town hall, or to an office that specifically deals with NIE´s. The solicitors we recommend to our clients will inform you of the easiest and best way to apply for the NIE. The method they recommend may also be decided by the speed at which your NIE is required as some methods can take 4 weeks to issue the number whilst others can be within a few hours.