NIE Appointment in Spain
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is your tax identification number in Spain. You’ll need it for bank accounts, property purchases, work contracts, and pretty much any official paperwork.
Who Needs an NIE?
Anyone doing any of the following in Spain:
- Opening a bank account
- Buying or selling property
- Signing a work contract
- Starting a business
- Buying a car
- Getting utilities in your name
If you’re applying for a residence visa, you’ll get an NIE automatically as part of that process. This guide is for people who just need the number without residence.
Where to Get It
In Spain: at a police station (Comisaría de Policía) with a foreigners unit. Find your nearest office →
Outside Spain: at a Spanish consulate in your country.
Required Documents
- Passport (original plus a copy of the photo page)
- EX-15 form filled out and signed
- Justification document explaining why you need the NIE
- Modelo 790-012 fee paid at a bank
- Appointment confirmation printed
Justification Documents
You need to show a valid reason for the NIE. One of these works:
- Property purchase contract
- Job offer letter
- Bank account opening request letter
- Business registration documents
- Notarized letter explaining economic or professional reasons
How to Book
- Go to Cita Previa Extranjería (search Google for “cita previa extranjería”) (the site may be slow or temporarily unavailable. Keep trying)
- Select your province
- Click Aceptar
- Choose “Policía. Certificados y Asignación de NIE”
- Enter your passport number
- Pick an office and date
- Print your confirmation
No appointments showing? See what to do
At the Appointment
Before you go: pay the fee at any Spanish bank and make copies of all your documents.
Show up about 15 minutes early. You’ll hand in your documents at the window, they verify everything, and in most cases you walk out with your NIE certificate the same day.
The NIE itself is just a number on a piece of paper. Keep it safe because you’ll use it constantly.
NIE Appointments by City
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the NIE expire?
The number itself never expires. It’s yours for life. The paper certificate might need renewing for certain procedures, but your number stays the same.
Can I get an NIE without going to Spain?
Yes. Apply at a Spanish consulate in your country. The documents are similar but wait times and specific requirements vary by consulate.
What’s the difference between NIE and TIE?
NIE is just a number (your tax ID). TIE is a physical card with your photo that proves residence. Non-EU residents with a visa get both. EU citizens get an NIE on their green registration certificate.
How long does it take?
At most police stations, you get the NIE certificate right there at your appointment. Some offices mail it within a few days. The hard part is getting the appointment, not the actual process.
Need Help?
Not sure about your documents or running into problems? Book a consultation and we’ll help you through it.