The NIE Number in Spain >> Who Needs One and How to Apply

You will undoubtedly have heard of the NIE number when planning your move to Spain. You will also have heard how important it is for anyone living or working in the country and those doing business in Spain. But what is it, and why is it crucial that you have one?

What is a NIE Number?

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a foreigner’s identification number required for anyone who is not a Spanish citizen. Whether you’re from the EU or a non-EU country, if you are a foreigner in Spain, you will need an NIE.

The NIE follows a specific format: one letter, seven numbers, and a final letter (e.g., X-1234567-B).

Why Do You Need an NIE Number in Spain?

An NIE is essential for legal and financial matters in Spain, even if you’re not a resident—for example when purchasing an investment property. If you plan to live in Spain for more than three months, obtaining an NIE is your first step. You’ll need it for residency paperwork, Social Security registration, getting a driver’s license, and other official procedures. Even the Amazon delivery man asks for our NIE Numbers!

Without a NIE number, residency in Spain is not possible.

Who is Required to Obtain an NIE?

As the ‘extranjero’ (‘foreigner’) in the name suggests, the NIE is mandatory for all foreign nationals with economic, professional, or social interests in Spain. This includes both EU and non-EU citizens. It is not attached to residency, as non-residents also need an NIE for administrative or legal activities in Spain.

How to Apply for Your NIE Number

Application Process

You have three ways to apply:

1. In-person, in your own country of residence
   Made through the Spanish consulate or embassy
2. In-person, in Spain
   Made through a National Police Station or an  Oficina de Extranjeros branch
3. Online, in Spain
   Only available through non-government third-party companies

In Spain, appointments can be made through the public administration website (Sede Electrónica).

Important Notes

1. The process and requirements vary depending on your need for an NIE (eg, work, property purchase, residence, etc.). Make sure you follow the instructions specific to your needs.
2. No official online process exists for obtaining an NIE outside Spain.
3. You can appoint a representative with power of attorney to apply.
4. Read the notes (in English) on obtaining an NIE on the Spanish government’s website.
5. You may be issued a provisional NIE number on the spot. However, this is not guaranteed, and the time taken to issue can vary based on the current volume of applications.
6. Government officials’ knowledge, processing times, and procedures vary significantly across Spanish provinces. Research your local municipality’s NIE process carefully.
7. Bring photocopies of all documents to avoid delays, as missing paperwork may result in having to book another appointment.
8. It is strongly recommended that you seek professional help. The most minor error or omission will result in your application being denied. It is worth the time and money to at least consult with an expert.

Here are the three processes to choose from:

1. In Person, in Your Own Country of Residence

• Contact your nearest Spanish Consulate or the Spanish Embassy
  Arrange an appointment and ask what you are required to do. This is important as consulates have leeway to interpret requirements and can vary considerably!
• Gather Documents (see Required Documents)
• Attend the Appointment
  Take all documents with copies and as much additional documentation as you think is relevant. Pay the application fee (check beforehand whether credit card and cash are accepted) using form 790-012.
• Receive Notification of Your NIE
  The processing time can vary, often taking up to two months or more. You may receive the NIE directly from the consulate or have it sent to you.

2. In Person, in Spain

• Book an appointment with your nearest Oficina de Extranjeros or National Police Station (Comisaría de Policía)
  You can do this online by arranging a Cita Previa on the public administration website. Alternatively, call 0376 97 900, ext 1) for the Oficina de Extranjeros or the Comisaría de Policía.
• Gather Documents (see Required Documents)
  IMPORTANT: You must pay the NIE application fee beforehand, as you cannot pay in person at your appointment.
• Attend the Appointment
  Take all documents and copies and as much additional documentation as you can.
• Receive Notification of Your NIE
  Your NIE may be ready immediately, or you might need to return it in a few days to collect it.

3. Online, in Spain

Currently, applying for an NIE entirely online through an official Spanish government website is not possible. Some third-party services offer online processes where they handle the application process, including filling out forms and submitting them on your behalf, but these are not official government channels.

Required Documents

Ensure that all non-Spanish documents (except your passport) are officially translated into Spanish and apostilled if necessary — see our articles Certified Translations for Spanish Immigration and The Hague Apostille Process in Spain for more details.

Document requirements can vary. Check the specific documents you need with the office where you have your appointment.

Document	Notes
Application Form EX-15	Indicate the economic, professional, or social reasons for the NIE application. If you are an EU national you will need to complete form EX-18.
Passport	Original and photocopy. Note: ALL pages, including blank ones, must be photocopied.
Certificado de Empadronamiento (Padrón)	Certificate of registration in the city/town where you live (may not be required in all regions).
Photographs	Two recent color passport-sized 26x32mm photographs with a white background.
Proof of Appointment	Printout of the appointment confirmation (Cita Previa) if applying in person.
Reason for Requiring an NIE	Eg Visa application, a sales agreement if you’re buying a property, etc.
Payment Receipt	Receipt of payment of the corresponding fee (Tasa Modelo 790-012). Can be paid online or at a Spanish bank.

Frequently Asked Questions