How to Obtain a NIE in Spain in 2025 (Foreigner Identification Number)
If you're wondering how to get an NIE in Spain, this guide walks you through the Spain NIE application process step by step. Whether you're moving to Spain for work, study, or investment, obtaining an NIE number in Spain for foreigners is essential for financial and legal transactions. We will cover the Spanish NIE requirements, how much it costs, and how long it takes to get an NIE in Spain. As of 2025, the NIE fee is still €9.84 and applicants for Spain’s Digital-Nomad visa must obtain a NIE before lodging their visa file.
Key Takeaways
- The NIE is essential for foreigners in Spain – Whether you're purchasing property, opening a bank account, signing contracts, or working, you will need an NIE for financial and legal activities.
- NIE vs. TIE: They serve different purposes – The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is an identification number, while the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is a residence permit for non-EU citizens.
- Applying for an NIE requires specific documents – A completed EX-15 form, passport, proof of financial or legal activity, and the Tasa 790 012 tax payment (€9.84), follow the steps in the article to apply.
- Processing times vary – If applying in Spain, NIE processing can take 1-3 weeks, while applications via a Spanish Consulate abroad may take up to 8 weeks.
- Some residency applications require an NIE beforehand – Non-Lucrative Visas, Golden Visas, and Entrepreneur Visas often require you to obtain an NIE before submitting your residency application.
- While your NIE number does not expire, the physical certificate is usually valid for 3 months and should be kept safe for future use.
- Digital-Nomad and Non-Lucrative Visa applicants must hold an NIE before the visa appointment.
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What is the NIE and Why Do You Need It?
The NIE is a unique identification number assigned to non-Spanish residents. It starts with X, Y or Z followed by seven digits and a check letter. It is required for any financial or legal activity, such as:
- Purchasing property
- Signing contracts
- Opening bank accounts
- Receiving packages
Without an NIE, navigating life in Spain can be challenging. The NIE does not replace a residence permit but works alongside it.
Understanding the Difference Between NIE and TIE in Spain
Many foreigners moving to Spain get confused between the NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) and the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero). Although both relate to foreigners, their purposes and characteristics differ significantly.
| Criteria | NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) | TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Identification number assigned to foreigners for administrative, legal, or financial purposes (property purchase, bank accounts, contracts). | Physical residency card proving legal residency status in Spain for non-EU citizens. |
| Who Needs It? | Any foreigner conducting financial or legal transactions in Spain, whether or not they reside permanently. | Non-EU citizens who have been granted authorization to reside in Spain for more than six months. |
| Does it Grant Residency? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Physical Format | Issued as a certificate (paper format), contains only the identification number. | Plastic card with photo, fingerprints, NIE number included, and expiration date. |
| Validity | Permanent (number never expires, certificate validity 3 months) | Temporary (usually 1 to 5 years, renewable based on residency type) |
| Where to Apply? | Spanish Police, Immigration Office (Extranjería), or Spanish Consulate abroad. | Local Immigration Office (Extranjería) or Police Station upon arrival in Spain. |
Who Needs an NIE Number in Spain for Foreigners?
Any foreign national who plans to stay in Spain for more than three months, work, or engage in financial transactions will need an NIE. This includes EU and non-EU citizens alike.
When to Apply for Initial Residency vs. NIE Assignment in Spain?
Understanding the difference between applying for an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) and applying for initial residency is crucial for foreigners planning to live, work, or invest in Spain.
When to Apply for an NIE Assignment
Apply for an NIE number if you need to conduct financial or legal transactions in Spain but do not plan to become a resident (or are applying for residency later).
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Buy property in Spain as a non-resident
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Open a bank account or handle financial transactions
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Sign an employment contract or work as a freelancer without residency
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Invest in a business or start a company
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Pay taxes in Spain as a non-resident
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Enroll in studies without applying for a student visa
Does NIE Grant Residency?
❌ No. The NIE is an identification number and does not grant legal residence in Spain.
When to Apply for Initial Residency
Apply for initial residency if you plan to live in Spain for more than 90 days and need a legal residence permit. Residency applications usually require an NIE number, but having an NIE does not automatically grant residency.
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Live in Spain for more than 90 days
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Work legally in Spain for a Spanish employer
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Register as self-employed (Autónomo) and work in Spain
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Study in Spain under a long-term student visa
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Join family members under family reunification residency
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Retire in Spain with a Non-Lucrative Visa
Does Residency Require an NIE?
✅ Yes. In some case, NIE is assigned automatically when applying for any residence permit which we will detail in the next section.
Key Differences: NIE vs. Residency
| Criteria | NIE Assignment | Initial Residency Application |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Financial, legal, and administrative activities | Legal residence and work authorization |
| Who Needs It? | Non-residents engaging in financial activities | Those planning to live in Spain long-term |
| Where to Apply? | Extranjería in Spain or Spanish Consulate abroad | Spanish Consulate abroad or Extranjería in Spain |
| Does It Grant Residency? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Which Residency Applications May Require an NIE Before Initial Residency?
Certain Spanish residency applications require obtaining an NIE before submitting the initial residency application. These cases typically involve situations where a foreigner needs to establish legal or financial ties in Spain before applying for a residence permit. Below are the main types, for more information on the different types of residencies visit Types of Residency Permits in Spain↗:
| Residency Type | Is NIE Required Before Residency? | Why is NIE Needed? |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) | ✅ Yes | Used to prove financial means and tax identification. |
| Golden Visa (Investor Residency) | ✅ Yes | Required for property or business investments before applying. |
| Entrepreneur Visa | ✅ Yes | Needed to register a business and pay taxes. |
| Work Visa (Some Cases) | ⚠️ Sometimes | May be required for payroll and tax setup. |
| Family Reunification | ⚠️ Sometimes | If financial proof is required. |
How to Apply for an NIE in Spain?
There are three main ways to apply for an NIE: in Spain, at a Spanish consulate abroad (example Los Angeles Spanish Consulate↗), or through a representative in Spain.
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In Spain: Get an appointment and visit the local Immigration Office Extranjeria↗.
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At a Spanish Consulate: If you are outside of Spain, you can apply at the Spanish consulate. This process can take several weeks.
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Through a Representative: If you cannot be in Spain, you can authorize someone to apply on your behalf. A notarized power of attorney is required.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply for an NIE in Spain?
In all cases, you will need:
- To Complete filling the EX-15 form↗.
- To Pay the Tax fee Tasa 790 012↗, for initial residence, select "2. Autorizaciones para residir en España" and the option applicable for your case, the cost for NIE assignment application is €9.84.
- Your valid original Passport,
- Documentation providing the reason for requesting the NIE (a job offer, intent of purchasing a property, a business activity certificate, academic enrollment acceptance letter, etc.), and
- Passport-sized photos (optional but sometimes requested).
How to Fill the EX-15 Form?
The EX-15 form is a crucial document for obtaining an NIE. It requires detailed information about the applicant, the reason for the NIE request, and the supporting documents. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fill out the EX-15 form:
How to Fill the Tasa 790 012 Form?
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fill out the Tasa 790 012 form:
How to Schedule an Appointment (Cita Previa) for your NIE application?
To apply in person, you will need to get an appointment at the Extranjeria (Immigration) office. Visit the Cita Previa link↗ and follow these simple steps:
How Long Does It Take to Get an NIE in Spain? What Happens Next?
Once the application is submitted, the processing time can vary. In-person applications in Spain are typically faster (1-3 weeks). Applications through consulates may take up to 8 weeks.
You will receive a document with your NIE number once approved as per the receipient information provided in the EX15 application form. Ensure you keep this safe as it will be required frequently.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Gerard B.
An expat who's done it, so you don't have to!
After spending years in Spain and thousands of euros on lawyers, tax advisors, and residency applications, only to realize that doing it yourself is often easier, cheaper, and just as effective. Gerard is an expat on a mission to help others avoid the same costly mistakes. By creating LiveLoveSpain, Gerard aims to share first-hand experiences, practical tips, and plenty of "Why didn't anyone tell me this?!" moments. Whether it's filing taxes, understanding visas, or just mastering the art of the sobremesa, he's here to help fellow expats integrate seamlessly without breaking the bank.