The days of the free NIE are over! A charge has been introduced - in the Alicante area it is 9 euros I understand it may be different elsewhere.

The fee is paid in a bank using the same form as the Residencia - Modelo 790

Yes, I was shocked the other day to have to pay 9 euros to get an NIE and then 6,80 to get the resident certificate as well! We were sure they were making a mistake but obviously not if it’s nationwide.

The fee for the residents certificate is the same as the Spanish pay to renew the ID card as has been around for a year or so. The NIE charge is a new one! hopefully to pay for more resources to deal with the NIE applications.

We have just moved here and have been told we can get NIE,padron and residency done for us for a fee of 220euros each. Are we getting a good deal?

Thats a difficult one - depends on your parameters - if you are prepared to go thru the learning curve and do it yourself which is entirely possible as it does not need a qualified solicitor than its expensive.

If you want the easy shortcut (I think you will need to be involved however as they dont issue NIEs and Residencia without you being there without a lot more paperwork) than pay your money!

As always its a choice thing!