Resumen rápido
The NIE is the identification number Spain assigns to every foreign national in order to operate legally in the country. You apply using form EX-15, a valid passport, proof of reason for applying and payment of tax form 790 code 012 (approx. €10 in 2026) at the Immigration Office or National Police station.
What is the NIE and who needs it?
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero, or Foreigner Identity Number) is the fiscal and administrative identification code that the Spanish state assigns to foreign nationals. It is an alphanumeric number (letter + 7 digits + check letter) that stays with the person permanently.
Who needs a NIE in Spain?
- Employed or self-employed workers
- Buyers of property or vehicles
- University students enrolled at Spanish institutions
- People opening a bank account in Spain
- Anyone carrying out an economic, tax or employment procedure
NIE vs TIE: key differences
Although often confused, they are distinct documents:
| Concept | NIE | TIE |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Just a number | Physical document (card) |
| Who gets it | Any foreigner with a valid reason | Non-EU residents |
| Expiry | The number never expires | The card does expire |
| Purpose | Tax/economic procedures | Proving legal residence |
EU/EEA citizens only need the NIE. Non-EU citizens residing in Spain must also obtain the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero).
How to apply for the NIE: booking an appointment
NIE applications are made at Immigration Offices or at National Police stations with an immigration unit.
Steps to book an appointment:
- Go to icp.administracionelectronica.gob.es
- Select your province
- Choose the procedure: "NIE assignment for non-EU citizens" or "NIE assignment for EU citizens"
- Select an available date and time
From abroad: If you are not yet in Spain, you can start the process at the Spanish consulate in your country of residence, although it takes longer (4–8 weeks).
Required documentation
Non-EU citizens
- Form EX-15 — NIE assignment application (downloadable from the Ministry of Interior's electronic portal)
- Original passport and photocopy — Valid (all pages with personal data and visas)
- Tax form 790 code 012 — Printed and paid. Amount in 2026: approximately €10
- Proof of reason for application — Document proving an economic, professional or social interest: employment contract, property deed, university enrolment, job acceptance letter, etc.
- Recent passport-style photograph — White background
EU/EEA citizens
- Form EX-18 (instead of EX-15)
- Valid passport or national ID card from the home country + photocopy
- Tax form 790 code 012
- Proof of reason (employment contract, university enrolment, etc.)
How to pay tax form 790 code 012
- Download form 790 code 012 from the Ministry of Interior's electronic portal
- Fill in your personal details and select the correct item
- Take the form to any collaborating bank (BBVA, Santander, CaixaBank, etc.) and pay at the counter or ATM
- Keep the stamped payment receipt: it is essential for your appointment
You may also be able to pay online if your bank allows it, generating a PDF with the electronic stamp.
Current waiting times in 2026
Times vary considerably by province:
- Madrid: 2–4 weeks to get an appointment
- Barcelona: 3–5 weeks
- Valencia, Seville: 1–3 weeks
- Smaller cities: Sometimes available within a few days
Once at the appointment, the NIE is issued on the spot at most stations (on paper, not as a card). The TIE, if required, takes an additional 3–6 weeks to process.
Frequently asked questions
Does the NIE expire? The number itself never expires. Associated documents (TIE, residence card) do have an expiry date.
Can I work with just the NIE? To work legally you also need a work authorisation (work permit), unless you are an EU citizen.
What if I lose the NIE paper? You can request a duplicate at the Immigration Office with the same documents and pay the fee again.
GovEasy includes an automatic form filler for EX-15 and EX-18. Try the Document Assistant.
Preguntas frecuentes
How much does the NIE cost in 2026?
The official tax form 790 code 012 fee is approximately €10 in 2026. It must be paid at a collaborating bank before your appointment, and you must bring the stamped receipt.
What is the difference between NIE and TIE?
The NIE is just an identification number that never expires. The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is the physical document that proves legal residence and does have an expiry date.
Can I apply for the NIE from my home country?
Yes. You can apply at the Spanish consulate in your country of residence. The process is usually slower than applying in Spain, but it means you do not have to travel without a NIE.
Fuentes oficiales
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