NIE Number in Spain

What it is

NIE stands for Número de Identidad de Extranjero, the foreigner identification number. It is personal and permanent: once assigned, the same number stays with you even if you leave Spain and come back years later, and it will appear on any residence document you hold in future.

The number and the card are different things. The NIE on its own is issued as a paper certificate. The plastic card (the TIE) only comes with a residence or stay authorisation. If you already have a visa or permit, see our TIE card service instead. If you are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen moving to Spain for more than three months, what you normally need is the EU registration certificate, which includes your NIE.

Who it is for

• People buying or selling property in Spain, including non-residents.
• New employees whose employer asks for a NIE before the contract.
• Investors, heirs and company directors with economic interests in Spain.
• Anyone who needs a number for tax purposes, a bank account or a vehicle purchase.
• People who are not sure whether they need a NIE, a TIE or an EU certificate.

Documents usually needed

• Valid passport (or national ID card for EU citizens) and a copy.
• The official application form (EX-15), completed and signed.
• Proof that the official fee (modelo 790, code 012) has been paid.
• A document showing why you need the number, such as a property deposit contract, a job offer, an inheritance file or a letter from a notary or bank.
• Appointment confirmation, if you apply in person in Spain.

Requirements and the documents accepted as justification can vary between provinces and consulates. We review your case first and tell you exactly what to bring.

How we handle it

1. Short review. You tell us why you need the number and where you are. We confirm the right route: in Spain, at a consulate, or through a representative where that is possible.
2. File preparation. We complete the EX-15, prepare the fee form and check that your supporting document states the reason clearly.
3. Appointment. We search for and book the appointment at the police office handling foreigners in your province.
4. On the day. You attend with the file in order. In Barcelona we can go with you if you prefer.
5. Certificate. We check the certificate once issued and tell you what to do with it next (bank, notary, employer, tax).

Timeframes

The appointment is usually the longest part. In some provinces there is availability within days; in others it can take several weeks. Once you attend, many offices issue the certificate on the same day or shortly afterwards. We give you a realistic estimate for your province before you pay.

Price

From 90 € + VAT for the standard NIE service. The official fee is paid separately and is not included. If you also need help with a bank account, padrón or Social Security number, we quote everything together.

Frequently asked questions