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Lifetti covers Spain, Germany, France, Netherlands, and Italy with country-specific crisis guides and bureaucracy checklists for expats.

How long does it take to get a NIE number in Spain?

NIE processing typically takes 1-4 weeks depending on location. The actual appointment takes 1-2 hours, and you may receive a temporary white NIE certificate the same day. The permanent green certificate is usually mailed within 1-3 weeks. However, booking the initial appointment (cita previa) can take 2-4 weeks in busy cities like Barcelona or Madrid. Check Monday mornings for newly released appointment slots. Alternatively, you can apply through a Spanish consulate in your home country before arriving, which takes 2-8 weeks.

What documents do I need for a NIE appointment?

You need: valid passport (original + 2 copies), completed EX-15 form (NOT signed until at appointment), proof of reason for NIE (job contract, property purchase, university enrollment, etc.), paid Modelo 790 Código 012 (stamped receipt from bank), and sometimes passport-size photos. Bring 2 photocopies of everything. EU citizens have slightly different requirements than non-EU citizens.

What is the difference between NIE and TIE?

NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is just an identification NUMBER - everyone needs it for banking, working, taxes, etc. TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is a physical RESIDENCE CARD for non-EU citizens living in Spain long-term. Your TIE contains your NIE number. EU citizens don't need a TIE. Think of it as: NIE = ID number for all foreigners, TIE = residence permit card for non-EU only.

Can I do anything in Spain without a NIE?

Very limited options. Without NIE you cannot: open most bank accounts, sign a rental contract, work legally, pay taxes, buy property, or access many services. You CAN: stay as a tourist (up to 90 days), use some digital banks temporarily (N26, Revolut), and book temporary accommodation. Get your NIE as the absolute first priority.

NIE Appointment Spain: How to Book 2025

Quick Overview

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is your foreigner identification number required for virtually everything in Spain - banking, renting, working, and taxes. Processing takes 1-4 weeks and costs €9.84. Book your cita previa appointment online (slots fill up 2-4 weeks in advance in Barcelona/Madrid), complete form EX-15, and pay via Modelo 790 at any Spanish bank before your appointment.

Key Facts

NIE processing time

1-4 weeks (€9.84 fee)

Appointment booking

2-4 weeks in advance in major cities

Required form

EX-15 (do NOT sign until at appointment)

Payment form

Modelo 790 Código 012

White NIE

Temporary (3 months)

Green NIE

Permanent certificate

How It Works

NIE Appointment & Application Guide in Spain

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is your essential foreigner identification number in Spain. Without it, you cannot open a bank account, sign a rental contract, start working legally, or pay taxes. The process involves: (1) Booking a cita previa appointment online at sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es - slots fill up quickly, especially in Barcelona and Madrid, so check Monday mornings for new releases; (2) Completing form EX-15 but NOT signing it until you are at the appointment; (3) Paying the €9.84 fee at any Spanish bank using Modelo 790 Código 012 before your appointment; (4) Attending your appointment with all original documents plus photocopies. You may receive a temporary white NIE certificate the same day, with the permanent green certificate mailed within 1-3 weeks. EU citizens have a simpler process, while non-EU citizens may need to apply as part of their visa process. Alternative: Apply through your nearest Spanish consulate before arriving in Spain (takes 2-8 weeks).

Your foreigner identification number - required for everything in Spain

Book NIE appointment (Cita Previa)

Schedule appointment at immigration office or police station.

Complete Form EX-15

Official NIE application form.

Pay NIE fee (Modelo 790)

Pay the €9.84 fee at a Spanish bank.

Attend NIE appointment

Go to your scheduled appointment with all documents.

Alternative: NIE via Spanish Consulate

Apply from your home country before arriving.

NIE Appointment & Application Guide Costs in Spain (2025)

NIE application fee€9.84

One-time government fee

Photocopies€2-5

Multiple copies of all documents

Passport photos€5-10

Sometimes required

Consulate fee (if abroad)€0-20

Varies by consulate

Total

€10-35 total for NIE process

Service	Cost	Notes
NIE application fee	€9.84	One-time government fee
Photocopies	€2-5	Multiple copies of all documents
Passport photos	€5-10	Sometimes required
Consulate fee (if abroad)	€0-20	Varies by consulate
Total estimate	€10-35 total for NIE process

*The NIE itself is very affordable. The main challenge is booking appointments in popular cities. Prices current as of January 2025.

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