NIE Application
Número de Identidad de Extranjero
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your unique identification number in Spain. It's essential for opening bank accounts, signing contracts, buying property, and most official procedures.
Every foreigner who has economic, professional, or social dealings in Spain needs an NIE. It's essentially your tax identification number as a foreigner. Unlike the TIE (which is a physical card proving residency), the NIE is just a number - though you'll receive a certificate or card showing it. You can obtain an NIE even if you're not a resident, as long as you have a valid reason.
Online notary available: Many of our services can be completed via online notary from the comfort of your home. Where in-person notarization is required or preferred, we can arrange this at a notary local to you.
What's Included
Documents Required
What you'll need to get started
Valid passport
Original passport plus a photocopy of all pages with stamps/visas
Passport photos
2 passport-sized photos (white background)
EX-15 form
Application form - we complete this for you
Proof of reason
Documentation supporting why you need an NIE (see below)
Tasa 790 código 012
Government fee (approximately €12) - we handle payment
Empadronamiento
Required if you're a resident; not needed for non-resident applications
Rules & Regulations
Important information you should know
Valid Reason Required
You must provide a legitimate reason: employment, property purchase, inheritance, business dealings, studies, or other economic/social activities.
In-Person Requirement
You must attend the appointment in person. We can accompany you but cannot apply on your behalf without a notarized power of attorney.
Non-Resident NIE
Non-residents can apply at Spanish consulates abroad or at police stations in Spain during a visit.
NIE vs TIE
The NIE is just a number for tax purposes. If you're becoming a resident, you'll later need a TIE card which contains your NIE.
Lifetime Number
Once assigned, your NIE never changes. The certificate may need renewal, but the number stays with you forever.
Benefits
Why this matters for you
Bank Account Opening
Required by all Spanish banks to open an account.
Property Purchase
Essential for buying or selling property in Spain.
Employment
Required for any employment contract or self-employment registration.
Tax Compliance
Needed for all tax declarations and financial transactions.
Contract Signing
Required for rental agreements, phone contracts, and utilities.
Vehicle Purchase
Necessary for buying and registering a car.
How It Works
Your nie application in four simple steps
Reason Assessment
We determine the best approach based on your reason for needing an NIE.
Document Preparation
We prepare your application forms, supporting documents, and pay the government fee.
Attend Appointment
Go to the police station with your prepared documents. The appointment takes about 15 minutes.
Receive Your NIE
In most cases, you receive your NIE certificate the same day as your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about nie application
The NIE is just a number (your tax ID for foreigners). The TIE is a physical card that proves your residency status. You can have an NIE without being a resident.
The NIE number itself never expires - it's yours for life. However, the certificate may need to be renewed for certain procedures.
Yes, you can apply through a Spanish consulate in your home country, though the process may take longer.
Yes, most Spanish banks require an NIE. Some banks offer accounts for non-residents, but an NIE is generally needed.
Common reasons include: property purchase, employment, inheritance matters, company formation, studies, and opening bank accounts for valid business purposes.