What is a NIE number in Spain?
What’s on this page?
- What is an NIE number in Spain?
- The meaning of the NIE number for foreigners in Spain
- Importance of the NIE number for foreigners in Spain
- Step-by-step guide on the application process for obtaining an NIE number Spain
- How much is an NIE in Spain?
- How long does it take to receive your NIE number?
- What does an NIE number look like?
- Renewal and change of NIE number status
- What to do if you lose your NIE number?
- Obtaining an NIE number on Costa Blanca
- When do you need an NIE number?
- The key points about the Spain NIE number
What is an NIE number in Spain?
One of the most important documents for foreigners in Spain is the NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero). In Spain, NIE number is a special identification number issued to foreigners residing in the Kingdom of Spain. It is used to identify people in all administrative processes and legal actions, such as opening a bank account, obtaining tax numbers, applying for employment, buying real estate or registering a business.
Our team at WTG Spain has prepared for you all the information about what is an NIE number in Spain, how to obtain it and what is the main use of this document.
The meaning of the NIE number for foreigners in Spain
The NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) plays a key role as a unique identification number for non-residents of Spain. It is assigned to you by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the NIE certificate itself is issued by the police. However, please note that an NIE number (Spain) does not mean that you can legally live in this sunny country indefinitely. Obtaining a (Spain) NIE number involves carrying out commercial activities in the Kingdom of Spain as a non-resident citizen. A NIE is required for any official, financial or legal activity in Spain.
Importance of the NIE number for foreigners in Spain
In Spain, NIE number is a critically important document for foreigners who plan to do more than just vacationing in Spain. Thus, the NIE serves as the primary means of identification in all legal, administrative and financial matters. Here are the main reasons for its importance:
| USE | IMPORTANCE |
| Legal use | In Spain, NIE number is required to sign contracts, including rental contracts, property purchase and employment contracts. |
| Financial operations | Opening a bank account, obtaining a loan, paying taxes and any other financial transactions require this NIE number. |
| Administrative processes | An NIE is required to obtain a driver's license, car registration, registration in the healthcare system, educational institutions, insurance and other official documents. |
| Tax reporting | Regardless of whether the foreigner is resident or non-resident, a NIE is required for any tax liability in Spain. |
In general, it is impossible for foreigners to fully integrate and carry out any activity in Spain without a NIE number.
Step-by-step guide on the application process for obtaining an NIE number Spain
Who is eligible to apply for a NIE number:
- a foreigner in person,
- official representative of a foreigner.
You can obtain a (Spain) NIE number in several ways:
- directly in Spain, at the police station;
- from outside Spain: at the Spanish diplomatic mission or consulate corresponding to your region of residence and addressed to the General Commissariat for Immigration and Borders;
- through an official representative.
To get a NIE number in Spain, you need to prepare a complete package of documents. The WTG Spain team has prepared for you the entire list of documents that are usually required to apply and the basic steps to obtain a (Spain) NIE number at the police station and through the consulate.
Documents required to obtain a (Spain) NIE number:
- Completed form EX-15 (Solicitud de Número de Identificación de Extranjero).
- Receipt for the payment of the fee (model 790, code 012).
- Valid passport and its copy.
- Additional documents supporting the reason for the NIE request (eg employment contract, property purchase document, etc.).
Obtaining a NIE through a police station in Spain:
Step 1: Making an appointment. Most police stations work by appointment. To do this, you need to get a sita (appointment note) on the official website of the administrative services, choose the province where it will be most convenient for you to issue an NIE and choose "Assignación de NIE".
Step 2: Filling out the form. You need to print and fill out the EX-15 form. We advise you to fill out this form in two copies.
Step 3: Payment of the fee. Pay the administrative fee (model 790, code 012). This can be done at any bank branch or terminals. Be sure to keep the payment receipt.
Step 4: Submission of documents. Come to the reception at the police station with the collected documents.
Step 5: Obtaining an NIE. Normally NIE is issued on the same day or a few days after the application is submitted.
Obtaining an NIE through a Spanish consulate abroad:
Step 1: Applying to the consulate. You can contact the nearest Spanish consulate in your country.
Step 2: Filling out the form. Complete the EX-15 form, which can be obtained from the consulate or downloaded online.
Step 3: Submission of documents. The list of which we have already given in the text above.
Step 4: The process of obtaining an NIE. Through the consulate, obtaining this document can take longer than in Spain, sometimes several weeks.
Step 5: Obtaining a NIE. You will receive your NIE number through the consulate, usually in the form of a letter or electronic document.
Obtaining a NIE through a representative:
Step 1: Issuing a power of attorney. You can appoint a representative (lawyer, notary public) to obtain the NIE on your behalf. For this, you need to issue a power of attorney.
Step 2: Submission of documents. The representative submits all necessary documents to the police or consulate.
Step 3: Obtaining an NIE. Your representative receives the NIE number and passes it on to you.
N.B!
Our company manager WTG Spain will help you get your NIE number quickly. Our specialists will help you to get a police report and fill out all the documentary forms without any mistakes. We can also do everything for you as an official representative of your interests, in particular as a Spanish investor.
How much is an NIE in Spain?
In 2024, the cost of the first application for a NIE number is €10.71. However, the fee may vary depending on where and how you apply (up to €15).
How long does it take to receive your NIE number?
Getting your NIE number can take a day or up to three weeks.
What does an NIE number look like?
The NIE number, Spain, (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is assigned to both residents and non-residents of Spain, it has a clear structure and consists of three main elements: a letter, seven digits, a letter.
A typical NIE number (Spain) example:
- X1234567L
- Y7654321M
- Z0987654N
This structure allows foreigners to be clearly identified in all administrative and financial processes in Spain. Each element of the NIE number has its own meaning and is important for correct data processing.
Renewal and change of NIE number status
In Spain, NIE number does not need to be renewed regularly as it is permanent and remains valid for as long as you are in Spain's jurisdiction.
If you have a change of status or information that affects your residency status, you should visit your local police station to update your information, or contact the Spanish Consulate for updates or new documents.
What to do if you lose your NIE number?
If you've lost the NIE number itself (for example, can't remember it or find the document), contact your local police station where they can help you recover your passport information.
Always keep important documents in a safe place and pay attention to the deadlines for status updates to avoid problems with administrative procedures in Spain.
Obtaining an NIE number on Costa Blanca
To obtain a NIE number on the Costa Blanca, you should contact the local police stations (Comisaría de Policía) or Extranjería offices that specialize in foreigners. The main cities in the Costa Blanca region where you can apply include:
- Alicante. A city and provincial center with one of the largest police stations.
- Benidorm.
- Calpe.
When do you need an NIE number?
The NIE number is an indispensable tool for foreigners who want to live, work, invest or carry out any financial or legal activity in Spain. Our WTG Spain team has prepared information about when you need NIE number (Spain), example:
| EXAMPLE | REASON |
| Opening a bank account | In Spain, NIE number is required by banks in order to open an account, even if you are a non-resident. This applies to both personal and corporate accounts. |
| Buying real estate | Any real estate transaction, including buying, selling or renting, requires an NIE number. This is due to the need to pay taxes and register ownership. |
| Work in Spain | Official employment, obtaining a work contract or starting a business in Spain requires an NIE number. |
| Payment of taxes | All foreigners who receive income in Spain or own property are required to pay taxes. |
| Receiving an inheritance | In order to register an inheritance in Spain, even if you do not live in that country, you need a Spanish NIE number. |
| Opening a business | An NIE number is required to set up a company, register a business or work as a self-employed person. |
| Obtaining residency | If you plan to live permanently in Spain, obtaining a residence permit requires an NIE number. |
In all these situations, an NIE number is required and without it these actions will be impossible or significantly more difficult.
The key points about the Spain NIE number
The NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is an important identification number for foreigners in Spain, which plays a key role in numerous administrative and financial processes. The NIE provides the individual identification of foreigners in Spain, which is necessary for all legal, financial and administrative matters. An NIE number can be obtained from a police station in Spain or from a Spanish consulate abroad. The process includes filling out a form, paying an administrative fee and submitting the necessary documents.
In Spain, NIE number will not only facilitate your integration into Spanish society, but will also ensure the ability to carry out all necessary legal and financial transactions without hindrance. Therefore, for a comfortable and legal stay in Spain, it is strongly recommended to obtain a NIE number as soon as possible.
You can always get more detailed information about all the necessary documents, including the (Spain) NIE number, and of course advice on buying real estate in Spain, by contacting our WTG Spain team.
We are always happy to answer all your questions!
