What Is a NIE Number in Spain?
A NIE number in Spain (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is a personal identification number assigned to non-Spanish citizens. It is required for almost all legal, financial, and administrative procedures in Spain.
Your NIE is:
- Unique
- Personal
- Issued once
- Valid for life
If you are not Spanish and you want to buy property, work, open a bank account, pay taxes, start a business, or register assets, you will need a NIE number.
Who Needs a NIE Number?
You need a NIE number if you are a foreign national and you intend to carry out any official activity in Spain, including:
- Buying or selling property
- Renting long-term accommodation
- Working in Spain
- Starting a business
- Opening a Spanish bank account
- Paying taxes
- Registering a car
- Inheriting property or assets
- Applying for residency
There is no minimum stay requirement. Even non-residents living outside Spain often need a NIE.
Is a NIE the Same as Residency?
No. This is one of the most common misunderstandings.
A NIE number is not residency.
- A NIE is an identification number
- Residency is a legal right to live in Spain
You can:
- Have a NIE without being resident
- Not have residency without a NIE
Residency permits always include a NIE, but a NIE alone does not grant residency rights.
Who Issues NIE Numbers in Spain?
NIE numbers are issued by the Spanish government through the Policía Nacional and Spanish consulates abroad.
Applications are processed at:
- Police stations with a foreigners’ department
- Extranjería (immigration) offices
- Spanish consulates outside Spain
Ways to Apply for a NIE Number
There are two main ways to get a NIE number:
1. Apply for a NIE in Spain
This is the fastest and most common option.
Best for:
- Property buyers already in Spain
- People who need a NIE urgently
- Applicants using a representative
2. Apply for a NIE from Outside Spain
You can apply through a Spanish consulate in your home country.
Best for:
- Applicants who cannot travel
- Early planning before relocation
- Non-urgent applications
How to Apply for a NIE in Spain (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Book a NIE Appointment (Cita Previa)
You must book an official Cita Previa appointment online.
Appointments are limited and in many areas:
- Fully booked weeks in advance
- Released without notice
- Claimed within minutes
Because of this, many applicants use a NIE service or gestor to secure an appointment.
Step 2: Complete Form EX-15
Form EX-15 is the official NIE application form.
You must provide:
- Full name (exactly as in passport)
- Date and place of birth
- Nationality
- Parents’ names
- Address in Spain (temporary is acceptable)
- Reason for requesting the NIE
Your reason must be specific and legitimate, such as:
- Property purchase
- Bank account opening
- Employment
- Business activity
- Inheritance
Vague reasons are frequently rejected.
Step 3: Pay the NIE Fee (Modelo 790)
The government fee for a NIE is usually €9–€12.
Payment requires:
- Completing Modelo 790
- Paying at a Spanish bank or online
- Providing stamped proof of payment
Some banks refuse payments without appointments, which is another common obstacle for applicants.
Step 4: Attend the Appointment
Bring:
- Passport (original + copy)
- Completed EX-15 form
- Proof of fee payment
- Appointment confirmation
- Supporting documents (if requested)
Processing times vary by location:
- Same-day issue
- A few days
- Up to 4–6 weeks
Applying for a NIE from Outside Spain
If you are not in Spain, you can apply through a Spanish consulate.
Consular NIE Application Process
- Contact your nearest Spanish consulate
- Request NIE application instructions
- Complete EX-15
- Provide notarised documents
- Pay consular fees
- Wait for processing
Processing times are usually 4–8 weeks, sometimes longer.
Can Someone Apply for My NIE on My Behalf?
Yes. A NIE can be obtained via a legal representative.
This is extremely common for:
- Property buyers
- Investors
- Non-Spanish speakers
- Applicants outside Spain
A representative may require:
- Signed authorisation
- Copy of your passport
- Power of attorney (in some cases)
NIE for Property Buyers in Spain
If you are buying property in Spain:
- A NIE is mandatory
- All buyers must have one
- Notaries will not complete a sale without it
This is the most common reason for NIE applications.
NIE for UK Citizens After Brexit
UK citizens are now non-EU nationals, but:
- The NIE process remains the same
- Additional checks may apply
- Proof of purpose is more strictly reviewed
UK citizens commonly need a NIE for:
- Buying a second home
- Tax matters
- Inheritance
- Business activities
NIE for Work or Business
You need a NIE to:
- Sign employment contracts
- Register for Spanish social security
- Become self-employed (autónomo)
- Register a company
- Issue invoices
A NIE is required before most employment or business registrations can proceed.
How Long Is a NIE Valid?
The NIE number never expires.
However:
- Certificates may show an issue date
- Some banks require a recently issued copy
- You can request duplicates at any time
Common NIE Application Mistakes
- Applying without an appointment
- Selecting the wrong procedure
- Providing vague reasons
- Name mismatches with passport
- Assuming NIE equals residency
Avoiding these mistakes saves weeks of delays.
Why NIE Appointments Are So Hard to Get
Spain’s appointment system:
- Is centralised
- Releases slots unpredictably
- Suffers from high demand
- Is often targeted by bots
This is why professional NIE services exist and are widely used.
Should You Use a NIE Service?
Using a NIE service is recommended if you:
- Do not speak Spanish
- Need a fast appointment
- Are buying property
- Are applying from abroad
- Want to avoid administrative errors
A professional service can:
- Secure appointments
- Prepare paperwork
- Liaise with authorities
- Save time and stress
Frequently Asked Questions About NIE Numbers
Can I have more than one NIE?
No. Each person has one NIE for life.
Can I apply online?
No. NIE applications require in-person attendance or a representative.
Is my NIE safe to share?
Yes. It is routinely required for legal transactions.
Do I need a Spanish address?
Not always. Temporary addresses are often accepted.
Final Advice on Getting a NIE Number in Spain
Applying for a NIE number is unavoidable for most foreigners in Spain. While the process is straightforward in theory, appointment shortages and administrative issues cause delays for many applicants.
For best results:
- Apply early
- Be precise with documentation
- Get professional help if timing matters
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