Hi RF,
We recently obtained our NIE nos. when we were over in San Juan end april / beginning of may. Our solicitor in Mojacar filled in forms and took us thru to Almeria. The authorities checked us against our passports for verification of ID. We were originally going to try and do it ourselves, but were so glad we didnt! Unless you speak spanish and know your way about Almeria, I would strongly advise you do what we did. As Jacqui did in her reply. The solicitor went back to pick them up 2 weeks later. (You only have to be present the 1st visit). All this for a VERY reasonable fee.
There is on line companies that do it for you, but their fees I found expensive in comparison, and I am not sure how you confirm your ID.
We decided to go the way we did and combine a holiday / look at house / site. I have heard that you can obtain them from the spanish embassies in the uk. But this still requires a visit in person.
Hope to see you all soon.
Happy Days,
Ray & Ann