Essential Services

Your guide for a seamless move into your new apartment

Find essential information for the upcoming move into your new Barcelona apartment. From banking, insurance to necessary documents, Casamona simplifies the process for you. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out – we're here to assist with your moving process.

To open a bank account in Spain you need:

• Identification: A valid passport or national ID card.
• NIE Number: Foreigner identification number required for financial and legal activities.
• Proof of Address: Utility bill or rental agreement.
• Proof of Employment or Financial Status: Employment contract, student ID, or income statement

Steps to Open an Account:

• Visit a Branch or Apply Online: For traditional banks, you often need to visit a branch for personalized assistance, especially for English-speaking services.
• Submit Documentation: Provide all required documents. Some banks may need these documents translated into Spanish and authenticated.
• Account Setup: Once your documents are verified, the bank will set up your account. You’ll usually receive your bank card and account details within a few days.

Digital Banking

Most major Spanish banks offer strong online banking services, ideal for efficient financial management. Mobile apps let you conduct everyday transactions, check balances, and handle international transfers easily.

Considerations

• Banking Fees: Check fees for account maintenance, ATM withdrawals, and other services.
• Language Services: Larger banks often offer multilingual services, helpful if you don’t speak Spanish.
• Opening a bank account in Spain is essential for managing your finances smoothly as an expat. Larger banks provide tailored services for the international community, ensuring a seamless banking experience.

Expats in Barcelona can choose from reputable international insurance companies like Allianz, offering health, automotive, and home insurance. These companies provide reliable customer service and multilingual support.

The Ajuntament de Barcelona offers essential services for new residents, including civil registrations, housing, and urban planning. Many services and information are available online to help expatriates navigate their new environment.

Police and Fire Stations:

Barcelona ensures public safety with well-equipped police and fire services. The Mossos d'Esquadra handle law enforcement, and the Bombers de Barcelona respond to fire emergencies, maintaining safety and order in the city.

Alarm Numbers:

• General Emergency: 112
• National Police: 091
• Local Police: 092
• Fire Service: 080
• Medical Emergencies: 061

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a crucial ID number for all foreign nationals in Spain. It is needed for activities like opening a bank account, buying property, setting up utilities, and paying taxes. It helps the Spanish government track the financial and official activities of non-Spanish nationals.

Why Do You Need a NIE Number?

• Legal Requirements: It's mandatory for most economic, professional, or social activities.
• Financial Transactions: Necessary for opening bank accounts, buying or selling property, and conducting business.
• Administrative Functions: Needed for setting up utilities, registering for social security, and more.

How to Obtain an NIE Number:

If you are in Spain:

• Appointment: Book an appointment at a local Police Station or the Oficina de Extranjeros. (You can find the online booking link on their website.)
• Documentation: Prepare the necessary documents, including: A completed EX-15 form.
• Your passport and a photocopy of the main pages.
• Proof of the reason for applying (e.g., property purchase contract, job contract).
• Fees: Pay the applicable fee and submit the payment receipt with your application.
• Processing: After submitting your documents, the NIE should be issued within a few days to weeks, depending on the office.

If you are abroad:

• Spanish Consulate/Embassy: Visit the nearest Spanish consulate or embassy.
• Documentation and Form**: Complete the EX-15 form, provide your passport and its photocopies, and any other required documentation justifying the need for an NIE.
• Fee Payment: Pay the application fee directly at the consulate.
• Submission and Processing: The consulate will forward your application to Spain, and the NIE will be sent to you, usually within a few weeks.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process:

• Plan Ahead: Apply for your NIE well in advance to prevent delays in transactions or formalities.
• Seek Assistance: Consider hiring a lawyer or administrative manager to help with the application, especially if you're not fluent in Spanish.
• Prepare Documents: Make sure all your documents are properly filled out and translated into Spanish.

The NIE number is a fundamental requirement for internationals in Spain, crucial for a wide range of activities and interactions with Spanish bureaucratic systems. While the process can seem daunting, proper preparation can simplify it significantly.