An N.I.E (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) number and a Padrón are two different things in Lanzarote, and they serve different purposes.
Here's the difference between the two:
N.I.E Number: An NIE number is a unique identification number for foreigners in Spain, which is required for many legal transactions, such as opening a bank account, buying a property, signing a contract, or obtaining a residency permit.
It's a personal identification number that serves as your tax identification number and is used to identify you in all your dealings with Spanish authorities.
In effect, many people in English speaking areas would recoginise it as a Social Security Number
A Padrón: A Padrón is a registration certificate that shows your address and your inclusion in the municipal census. It's issued by the Ayuntamiento (City Council) and is used for administrative purposes, such as determining the number of residents in a particular area, allocating public services and resources, and providing statistical data to the government.
While a NIE number is required for legal and tax purposes, a Padrón is a way of registering your residency and is often required for accessing certain public services, such as healthcare, enrolling your children into education, or voting.
It's also a way of demonstrating your integration into the local community and your commitment to your local area.
By having both an NIE number and a Padron certificate, you can enjoy the benefits of both. For example, having an NIE number can make it easier to buy a home or sell property in Lanzarote, while having a Padron certificate can help you access local services and benefits.
Overall, having both an NIE number and a Padron certificate in Lanzarote can be highly beneficial, both for legal and practical reasons. If you plan to live or conduct business in Lanzarote, it is highly recommended that you obtain both of these documents.
Additionally, having both documents can help you establish a stronger connection to the local community in Lanzarote, which can be helpful if you plan to live there long-term.