How to Get Your NIE Number in Spain: A Complete Guide

The NIE number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is the single most important document you'll need as a foreigner in Spain. Without it, you can't open a bank account, sign a rental contract, start a job, or even get a phone plan.

This guide covers everything: what the NIE is, why you need one, how to get it, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.

What Is the NIE?

The NIE is a tax identification number assigned to all foreigners who have financial, professional, or social dealings in Spain. Think of it like a Social Security Number — it's the key that unlocks everything.

Who Needs an NIE?

Anyone who wants to:

• Work in Spain (employed or freelance)
• Buy or sell property
• Open a bank account
• Sign a rental contract
• Pay taxes
• Register a vehicle
• Set up utilities

In short: if you're going to live or conduct significant business in Spain, you need an NIE.

Requirements

Before heading to the police station, make sure you have:

1. EX-15 form — the NIE application form, filled out (you can download it from the Policía Nacional website)
2. Passport — original plus a photocopy
3. Proof of reason — a document explaining why you need the NIE (e.g., work contract, rental contract, property purchase agreement, visa application)
4. Tasa 790-012 — the official fee form, paid at a bank beforehand (approximately €12).
5. Passport photo — one recent photo (primarily for non-EU citizens applying for a TIE alongside their NIE).

Step-by-Step Process

1. Get an appointment (cita previa)

Go to the government appointments website and select your province. Choose "Certificados UE" for EU citizens or "Expedición de tarjeta de identidad de extranjero" for non-EU citizens.

2. Pay the fee (Tasa 790-012)

Download the Tasa 790-012 form from the tax agency website. Fill it in, print it, and take it to any Spanish bank to pay. Keep the stamped receipt — you'll need it at your appointment.

3. Attend your appointment

Bring all your documents to the police station (Comisaría de Policía) or foreigner's office (Oficina de Extranjería). Arrive early — even with an appointment, expect to wait.

4. Receive your NIE

For EU citizens, you'll typically receive your green Certificate of Registration as an EU Citizen, which includes your NIE, on the spot. Non-EU citizens applying for a TIE card will get a resguardo (receipt) and need to return to pick up their physical card in 30–45 days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not paying the tasa beforehand — you must pay at a bank before your appointment, not at the police station.
• Using the wrong form — ensure you're filling out EX-15 for the NIE. Other forms like EX-17 are for residency and TIE applications.
• Missing photocopies — always bring photocopies of every document. Offices rarely have a copier available.
• Expired appointment — if you miss your slot, you need to rebook from scratch, which can be time-consuming.

Can You Get an NIE from Abroad?

Yes. You can apply at a Spanish consulate in your home country. This is a good option if you want to have your NIE ready before arriving in Spain. The process is similar but may take longer (up to 3–4 weeks).

How Long Does the NIE Last?

The NIE number itself never expires — it's assigned to you permanently and will remain yours for life.

For EU citizens, the green A4 Certificate of Registration as an EU Citizen (which contains your NIE) does not expire once issued, assuming you continue to meet residency conditions. The "3-month" period often mentioned refers to the timeframe within which EU citizens must register if they plan to reside in Spain for longer than three months.

Summary

Getting your NIE is one of the first — and most important — steps in your move to Spain. While the bureaucracy can be frustrating and demand patience, thousands of people successfully navigate this process every day. Prepare your documents meticulously, secure your appointment as early as possible, and you'll have your NIE in no time.