Complete Application Guide in English
Everything you need to know about getting your NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) in Spain: what it is, how to apply, required documents, costs, and processing times.
Quick answer
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is Spain’s tax and ID number for foreigners, required to buy property, work, open a bank account or sign contracts. Apply via the official EX-15 form, book a cita previa at a police station or Spanish consulate, and pay the €9.84 Modelo 790 (código 012) fee. Processing takes 3–10 weeks in total; the NIE itself never expires, though the physical certificate is dated. EU citizens use EX-18 for residency; non-EU applicants typically get the NIE as part of their TIE/visa process.
A NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a foreigner identification number issued by the Spanish government. It's an 8-digit number (starting with X, Y, or Z) that serves as your unique tax and legal identifier in Spain.
Property Transactions
Required to buy, sell, or rent property
Banking & Finance
Open bank accounts, get mortgages, invest
Employment
Work legally, pay social security contributions
Utilities & Services
Set up electricity, water, internet contracts
Taxes
File tax returns, receive tax refunds
Legal Matters
Sign contracts, notarize documents, inheritance
You must book an appointment (cita previa) at your nearest Oficina de Extranjería (Immigration Office) or police station that handles NIE applications.
Free but appointments fill up 4-8 weeks in advance
€50-€150 to book within 24-48 hours
Recommended if you need NIE urgently
Download and fill out the EX-15 form (Solicitud de Número de Identidad de Extranjero). This is the official NIE application form.
Pay the €9.84 official fee using Modelo 790 Código 012 form. Payment must be made at a Spanish bank before your appointment.
Arrive 15 minutes early with all required documents. The appointment typically takes 10-20 minutes. Your NIE is usually issued immediately or mailed within 1-5 business days.
Book Appointment
2-8 weeks
Official portal: 4-8 weeks | Express service: 24 hours
Prepare Documents & Pay Fee
1-3 days
Download forms, fill out, pay at bank - can be done quickly
Appointment & Issuance
Same day - 5 days
Many offices issue NIE on the spot | Some mail it within 1-5 days
Total Timeline
3-10 weeks
Using express booking service: 1-2 weeks total | Peak season (May-Sep): up to 12 weeks
Yes. You can apply at the Spanish consulate in your home country. You'll need the same documents (EX-15, passport, justification). Processing time: 2-8 weeks. Alternatively, you can authorize someone in Spain (lawyer, family member) to apply on your behalf with a power of attorney.
The NIE number itself never expires - it's yours for life. However, the physical certificate paper can expire if you're a non-EU resident (it's tied to your visa/residency validity). EU citizens' NIE certificates don't expire. If needed, you can request a new certificate with the same number.
You must cancel and rebook. Missing an appointment without canceling may block you from booking another one for several weeks. Cancel at least 24 hours in advance via the same online portal where you booked. Rebooking may take another 4-8 weeks.
Most traditional Spanish banks require a NIE. However, some digital banks (N26, Revolut, Wise) allow you to open accounts with just a passport. For full-service Spanish banks (mortgage, investment accounts), a NIE is mandatory.
If you're an EU citizen: yes, the NIE is sufficient to work legally in Spain. If you're a non-EU citizen: no, you also need a work visa/permit. The NIE is required for employment contracts and paying taxes, but it doesn't grant work authorization by itself for non-EU nationals.
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