Where to register for NIE?

I would like to know if it is posible to register for an NIE in a different area/region from where i have been accepted for work and will ultimately be Iving. I am staying with friends until my work starts in september, but they are the opposite side of Spain from where i will moving to and i really dont want to have to drive across spain to register unless i have to.

As an American (possibly applies to anyone?). I can apply for NIE anywhere in Spain OR at a consulate near my U.S. address. I don't even need a visa. Unfortunately, my paperwork is buried or I would identify the specific law, but basically if you are not there illegally, and you have a legitimate reason to have one, they have to give it to you. My reason was that I needed it to be able to open a bank acccount and rent an apartment (although I later learned that both of those CAN legally be done without it.)

You can apply through the Spanish embassy in London for a NIE. I applied and received my through a company on the internet. It arrived about a month later.

Obtaining an NIE

Obtaining an NIE is a fairly simple process, but can be complicated if you do not understand the paperwork. The simplest way, if using a lawyer to purchase a property, is to instruct the lawyer to obtain this for you. However, it can be obtained by approaching a local police station in your area.

Within your police station there is a Foreigners Department (will be labeled ‘Departmento de Extranjeros’). When you arrive you will be asked to fill out an NIE application form and submit copies of the following paperwork. Be aware, you will require more than one copy at some police stations, so be prepared before you turn up.

Your Passport and a photocopy (the police station will keep the photocopy).
Your full address in Spain (You can use a friend’s address if you have not yet bought a property).
Some police stations may ask for written justification as to why you are applying for your NIE number. A letter from the bank, a lawyer, or even a prospective employer will suffice.[*]

When you have filled in the application form and supplied the relevant paperwork, you will be given a stamped photocopy of the application and given a date as to when to return to pick up your official documents. The general turnaround time can take between one and six weeks depending on the time of year and the number of applicants.

You can even use the address of a hotel. That's how I got mine (which I applied for because I had been misinformed that I could not rent an apartment or open a bank account without it).

Very interesting and useful topic! Helped me to fix some issues with renting! Thanks a lot. By the way, if you need help with college homework i can always help or at least try to! Cheers