How to get an NIE number in Spain: the 2026 step-by-step
Facts last verified on against 4 sources (4 official). By the Relocate+ team.
Short answer
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is Spain's personal, unique number for foreigners who deal with Spain for economic, professional or social reasons. You apply with form EX-15 and pay a €9.84 fee with form 790 code 012, either at a police or foreigners' office in Spain or at the Spanish consulate where you live.[1][2]
In Spain, processing takes up to five days once registered. Through a consulate it's normally within two weeks and the number is emailed to you. An NIE is only an identification number: it doesn't let you live in Spain.[2][3]
Key facts at a glance
Where you can apply
At a Spanish consulate abroad
Best for: People who need the number before they arrive, for example to buy property or sign contracts.
Requirement: Apply at the consulate for the area where you live, in person or through an accredited representative. Bring form EX-15 stating your reasons, your passport and a copy, proof that you live in the consular area and the paid fee.[3][1]
- Spain's Manchester consulate charges £8.45; other consulates set their own local amount.
- The number is assigned by Spain's immigration police, so the consulate can't speed it up.
In Spain, at a police or foreigners' office
Best for: People already legally in Spain.
Requirement: Book an immigration appointment (cita previa), then hand in form EX-15 in duplicate, the paid 790 code 012 fee and your passport. You must not be in Spain irregularly, and you must explain why you need the number.[2][1]
- A representative with a power of attorney can apply for you.
Assigned automatically with some visas
Best for: People applying for a qualifying visa.
Requirement: Spain's police assign the NIE automatically in certain visa procedures, so many visa holders don't need to apply separately.[4]
Step-by-step timeline
- 1
Before you apply
Check whether you already have one
If you're applying for a qualifying long-stay visa, the NIE may be assigned automatically as part of the visa procedure.[4]
- 2
Step 1
Fill in form EX-15
Complete and sign the EX-15 application, and state the economic, professional or social reason you need an NIE. Consulates prefer it filled in online and printed.[2][3][1]
- 3
Step 2
Pay the fee with form 790 code 012
In Spain, select "Assignment of Foreigner Identity Number (NIE) at the request of the interested party" and pay €9.84 at a bank. Consulates charge their own local amount.[2][3]
- 4
Step 3
Prepare your documents
Bring your passport and a copy. Foreign public documents must be legalised or apostilled and translated into Spanish by a sworn translator.[2][3]
- 5
Step 4
Book and attend your appointment
In Spain, book an immigration appointment (cita previa) at a foreigners' office or police station. Abroad, contact the consulate for your area. You or your representative must attend in person.[2][3]
- 6
After applying
Receive your NIE
In Spain the decision comes within five days of registration. Through a consulate it normally takes up to two weeks, and the NIE is sent by email, so include a working email address on the form.[2][3]
Document checklist
- Form EX-15, completed and signed (in duplicate)[2][3]
- Form 790 code 012 with proof of payment[2]
- Valid passport, plus a copy of the bio page[2][3][1]
- Statement of your reason for needing an NIE[1][3]
- Proof of residence in the consular area (if applying abroad)[3]
- Power of attorney, if a representative applies[1][2]
- For children: birth certificate and the parent's ID[3]
Official fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| NIE assignment in Spain (790 code 012) | €9.84[2] |
| NIE via Spain's Manchester consulateEach consulate sets its own local amount. | £8.45[3] |
Translations, apostilles and any legal representative cost extra, depending on the provider.
Moving with family
Children need their own NIE. Applying for a minor, bring their birth certificate (or family record book) and the valid passport or ID of the parent or guardian.[3]
Common mistakes to avoid
- Treating the NIE as a residence permit. It identifies you to Spanish authorities but doesn't give you the right to live in Spain.[3]
- Leaving out your reason. The application must state why you need the number.[1][3]
- Untranslated documents. Foreign documents need a sworn Spanish translation and, where required, an apostille.[2]
- Entering Spain from another Schengen country without an entry declaration. Non-EU nationals must file one on arrival or within three working days.[2]
Frequently asked questions
How much does an NIE number cost?
€9.84 in Spain, paid with form 790 code 012. Consulates abroad charge their own local amount — £8.45 at Spain's Manchester consulate, for example.[2][3]
How long does it take to get an NIE?
In Spain, up to five days once your application is registered. Through a Spanish consulate it's normally within two weeks, and the number is sent to you by email.[2][3]
Can I get an NIE before moving to Spain?
Yes. Apply at the Spanish consulate covering where you live, in person or through an accredited representative.[1][3]
Does an NIE let me live in Spain?
No. It's an identification number only. To live in Spain as a non-EU citizen you need a visa or residence authorisation, and then a TIE card.[3][4]
Do I need to apply for an NIE if I have a Spanish visa?
Often not. Spain's police assign the NIE automatically in certain visa procedures.[4]
Sources
Every fact on this page links to one of these. Official = government, consulate or official gazette.
- [1] Número de Identidad de Extranjero (NIE) — Ministry of the Interior (Spain)Official · checked 27 October 2026
- [2] Application for NIE for international individuals — Spanish government (one.gob.es)Official · checked 27 October 2026
- [3] NIE (Foreigner Identity Number) — Consulate General of Spain in ManchesterOfficial · checked 27 October 2026
- [4] Documentación de las personas extranjeras — Ministry of the Interior (Spain)Official · checked 27 October 2026
Immigration rules change often. Always confirm requirements with the consulate or authority that handles your application before you book or pay for anything. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.