The NIE is the number Spain assigns to any foreign national with economic, professional or social interests in the country: buying or renting a home, opening a bank account, signing an employment contract, setting up a company, inheriting, paying taxes and so on.
It is only an identification number: it does not authorise you to live or work in Spain, and it does not replace the TIE or the EU registration certificate. If you are granted a residence authorisation, the NIE is assigned together with it.
- Foreign nationals who deal with Spain because of economic, professional or social interests.
- It can be requested from Spain (Immigration Office or National Police station) or from abroad (Spanish consulate).
- A representative holding a sufficient power of attorney can also apply on your behalf.
- You must not be in Spain irregularly if you apply from within the country.
- You must prove the economic, professional or social reasons behind the request (purchase agreement, job offer, enrolment, etc.).
Official form EX-15, completed and signedIn duplicate (original and copy) if you file it on paper. Always download it from the Ministry website so you use the current version.Official link Full passport, validA copy of every written page (including blank ones if the office asks for them) plus the original for checking. Many procedures require at least 4 months of validity. Proof of payment of fee form 790 code 012It is generated and filled in on the official fee website, paid at a bank or online, and submitted as the stamped copy.Official link Document justifying the reason for the applicationFor example: a deposit or purchase agreement, a job offer or contract, an enrolment document, articles of incorporation, or a notarial deed accepting an inheritance. Proof of representation if applicable Power of attorney expressly including the power to file the application, plus the representative's DNI/NIE.
Application for a Foreigner Identity Number (NIE) and certificates
Always download the form from the Ministry website: the templates are updated and offices reject outdated versions.
| Form | What it covers | Who pays | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| 790 código 012 | Assignment of a NIE at the applicant's request | The applicant | Generate fee form |
Amounts are updated periodically: the one shown when you generate form 790 is the one in force.
National Police station or Immigration Office (in Spain)
By appointment. In the booking system choose your province and the procedure "Policía — asignación de NIE".
Spanish consulate or embassy (from abroad)
Each consulate has its own procedure and booking system.
- The decision is usually quick (often the same day or within a few working days), but it depends on how busy the office is.
- A NIE assigned at the applicant's request is documented in a certificate with limited validity (usually 3 months), although the number itself is permanent.