One of the first steps in working overseas is handling your paper works. If your ideal destination is Spain, then the first thing to do is to fill up that NIE application form. NIE is a tax identification number that is necessary for drawing contracts for various works in Spain. NIE which stands for “Número de Identificación de Extranjero” or Identification Number for Foreigners, is primarily a tax identification numbers for non-residents of Spain. These are issued by the National Police of Spain. It is the number one document you need if you want to work for any Spanish company. NIE is also necessary to all fiscal and legal matters especially if you intend to reside in Spain all year round. Acquiring an NIE allows you as a worker to secure a national social security health plan and other long term benefits. Other things that need an NIE number is when you apply for a business permit, for a mortgage or loans, buy or sell property, buy a vehicle, inherit assets in Spain, insure a property.

So how do I get my NIE application form? The standard is you prepare all the documents needed then set out to the nearest National Police and get a copy of your NIE application form, fill it up and then submit it together with your other documents then wait for 15 days to acquire it. But if one is not in Spain then would I be able to get my NIE application form? Yes of course. There are NIE application forms available in any Spanish Consulate. So wherever you are currently located you can still apply for an NIE number through Spanish Consulate but remember that the Spanish Consulate is merely act as a “post” between you and the Spanish authorities. So they do not have the power to issue the NIE number.

NIE application form is just like any other form but it is written in Spanish. So here are the things that you are required to fill up. This is from top to bottom, for personal details first surname, second surname, forename, date of birth, place of birth, gender, civil status, country of birth, nationality, father's name, mother's name, street address in Spain, town, postal code and province. Second part is for reasons for application. Then sign the form at the bottom, under 'firma de solicitante'. So now you won't get confused what the form is asking of you. But it is undoubtedly much better for you to learn Spanish since you will be working in Spain.

You can also get a copy of your NIE application form online and even process it online. Some companies offer to secure your NIE number without you going to Spain. They assure an easier way to get your NIE then e-mail or post it to you within 2-3 weeks. You only have to follow some steps to do so.

After securing your NIE in whatever way you chose, you have to process then your work permit and other paper works needed to get that job in Spain without a hitch.