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1 2 3 4 Glossary

It is necessary for everyone to obtain a Foreigner's Identity Number N.I.E., which will be needed in a variety of situations. Your gestor will tell you how to go about getting it in your area.

In order to buy a new car you will also have to have a certificate from the Town Hall where you live showing that you have registered there.

   Banks        

   Is there a difference between a "banco" and a "caja?
   In some aspects, yes.

A "banco" is more or less the same as a normal high street bank. A "caja" is the equivalent of a building society.

Both offer a variety of services.

Bank book accounts are very popular in Spain.

Cheques are not used nearly as much as in UK and many establishments are reluctant to accept them. Transactions are mainly by cash or debit/credit card. If you use a card be prepared to have to produce identification, even in the supermarket.

Some people comment about bank charges and on charges made for items which they are used to being provided free of charge.

Individual banks/building societies vary considerably in the time they take to clear non-Spanish cheques paid into your account. Make sure you know the number of days applicable to your bank/building society - don't assume that your funds will be available by a certain date. Charges for referred cheques can be high.

Credit and debit cards issued by your bank in the U.K. can be used and cash dispensers abound throughout the country.

All information provided herein is intended as a guide only and up to date relevant information should be verified by gestor or solicitor in each and every situation before action is taken on any aspect of moving to Spain.