US citizen LOST.. how can I get an NIE number while ¨I am "IN" Spain? Can´t travel until I get work!

Question

You’ve me in the past, praying you can help me now. I’m a self employed pedicurist, have been for the past 18yrs, so when I came to Spain I only looked into requirements for being self employed I never saw anything regarding NIE number, my mate here who is a EU citizen, did the research for me, huge mistake it is quite different for them, he didn’t know I needed to apply for the NIE "prior" to me leaving the US either OK I see you all reading this saying "what an idiot" NOW that you have your laugh, can anyone help me? I really DO NOT have funds to return to the USA until I can make some money here! And NO home there anymore to go to either! Sad but true. I’m slowly going completely broke & can’t get work at home here as planned until I can buy things I need to work from home, I can’t drive, can’t do anything here without the NIE number. I made a BIG mistake not researching this! Can anyone tell me what I may be able to do? As I am really in a pickle here. Thanks for any advice...JO

Answer 1

You need to go to the local police station and ask for an NIE form. Take someone who speaks Spanish if you do not (although if you're there I guess you do!). They won't charge you for it.

Remember to take your passport, a photocopy of your passport and two colour passport photographs.

In the meantime I'd try to find out about getting some "cash in hand" work to tide you over; processing the application will take 1 to 5 weeks.

If you need further help I know an English speaking solicitor who I've used for various tasks (estate management, setting up a Spanish bank account etc) - I could find her number for you.

Overall - don't get yourself too stressed out. It'll be fine - but get down that police station!! Good luck!

Nick

Answer 2

Can't you go to the nearest US consulate in Spain, or the Spanish consulate.

See what advice they could give.

They have to be your better option in a desperate situation.