How do I open a bank account in Spain without an NIE?

Opening a traditional Spanish bank account without an NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is very difficult, but there are several alternatives that work well:

Best Options Without NIE

1. **N26** (Recommended for Getting Started)

• German digital bank operating in Spain
• No NIE required
• Free basic account
• Spanish IBAN
• English app and support
• Can receive salary and pay bills
• Limitation: Not a full Spanish bank, some services unavailable

2. **Revolut**

• No NIE needed initially
• Multi-currency accounts
• Good exchange rates
• Spanish IBAN available
• Limitation: Some Spanish services may not accept it

3. **Wise** (formerly TransferWise)

• Excellent for international transfers
• Multi-currency account
• No NIE required
• Limitation: Not a traditional bank account

4. **Some Traditional Banks (With Conditions)**

A few traditional Spanish banks may open accounts with just a passport, but it varies:

• BBVA: Sometimes accepts foreign passport only
• Santander: May work for digital nomad visa holders
• CaixaBank: Rarely, for specific visa types

Requirements if they accept:

• Valid passport
• Proof of address (rental contract, hotel booking)
• Sometimes: Visa or residence permit

Why You Need NIE Eventually

NIE is required for:

• Most traditional Spanish bank accounts
• Rental contracts
• Employment contracts
• Buying property
• Setting up utilities
• Long-term residence

Getting Your NIE

Timeline: 1-3 months

Cost: €12 application fee

Process:

1. Book appointment at immigration office (cita previa)
2. Submit application with required documents
3. Wait for approval
4. Collect NIE certificate

Tip: Use a gestoría (administrative assistant service) for €100-200 to speed up the process and handle bureaucracy.

Interim Solution

Best approach:

1. Week 1: Open N26 or Revolut account (no NIE needed)
2. Month 1-2: Apply for and receive NIE
3. Month 2-3: Open traditional Spanish bank account (BBVA, Santander, CaixaBank)
4. Keep N26/Revolut: As backup and for international transfers

This allows you to:

• Pay rent and utilities immediately
• Receive salary
• Function while waiting for NIE
• Transition to traditional bank once you have NIE

Note: Some landlords and employers insist on traditional Spanish bank accounts, so getting your NIE should be a top priority upon arrival.