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What is an NIE Number in Spain?

What is an NIE Number in Spain?

Created29.08.2023, 10.00

Updated17.02.2026, 14.45

The term NIE stands for Número de Identidad de Extranjero, meaning “Foreigner Identification Number” in English. Resident and non-resident foreign citizens are required to obtain an NIE number for every legal interaction and social affairs. This also applies to EU citizens who wish to stay in Spain for more than 3 months.

NIE number for foreigners is mandatory in every legal proceeding. These procedures include getting an NIE for a bank account or obtaining an NIE for a property purchase. And in any kind of educational activities, students might need NIE for studying in Spain.

Each number is assigned to a single foreigner, to identify their presence by the law. NIE number is a must-have in case of legally working in Spain, buying real estate in the Spanish territory, or purchasing a vehicle.

Sh legally working in Spain ort-time visitors do not have to get an NIE number if they’re not planning to be involved in legal proceedings. However, they might need NIE for work in Spain. And if a foreign citizen is about to do any kind of social activity, their children and spouses might also required to get themselves an NIE number for social security.

If all NIE requirements are met, the number is given for a lifetime. It does not have an expiration date. However, the granted NIE card must be renewed every 3 months. While renewing the document given to the foreigner, the number remains the same.

Here are the main circumstances when an NIE number is essential to have:

• All kinds of legal activities
• Getting an education
• Opening a bank account
• Signing contracts
• Buying a vehicle
• Inheriting an immovable asset
• Applying for a mortgage
• Setting up a new business or working legally
• Selling or buying a real estate in Spain

How to Apply for an NIE Number in Spain?

NIE number applications can be made in person, or by a legal representative who owns a power of attorney. It would be best to apply with a Spanish-speaking local consultant since procedures include several steps such as gathering the necessary documents and filling out the application form, which will be in Spanish.

The application cannot be made online, it requires a physical presence at the national police station in Spain or the Spanish Embassy in the applicant’s country of residence.

How Long Does It Take to Get an NIE Number in Spain?

In general, an NIE number is granted within a few days if applied in person, in Spain. However, in some cases, the resolution process can be prolonged to a couple of weeks. But it is always best to be an early bird and apply it way before. It is suggested to start the application process 1 month in advance.

It is essential to keep in mind that the finalization can last even longer when applied through an embassy from abroad. In the case of an application made through a consulate, getting an NIE number can take at least 2 months.

Necessary Documents to Apply for a Spanish NIE Number

The necessary documents to apply for an NIE number in Spain are;

• Completed and signed EX-15 NIE application form
• Valid passport and its copy
• Birth certificate or guardianship documents for minor or dependent child applicants
• Two passport-size photographs
• Proof of NIE application fee payment made with form 790 NIE
• A valid document that states the need to obtain NIE such as a sales agreement

If a representative is conducting the process on behalf of the applicant, the representative’s identity card or passport is also required.

The cost of obtaining an NIE number depends on the application type and varies between €15 - €20.

Looking For a Way to Make This Process Easier?

Being unfamiliar with the legal system of a foreign country can create hard-to-solve difficulties. Like any other legal procedure, getting an NIE number also includes several steps that are best to follow with a local consultant.

The experienced team of TEKCE is ready to guide you through all the stages, from A to Z. Contact us today, sit back, and enjoy a smooth NIE application process with our local experts who speak your language.

FAQs

Where do I get an NIE to buy property in Spain as a foreigner?Foreigners who want to buy property in Spain need a Foreigner Identity Number (NIE). Once you get the NIE, it lasts for life.

You can apply for the NIE at the Foreigners’ Police Office in Spain or at the Spanish Consulate in your home country. You can book an NIE appointment at any Foreigners’ Police Office in Spain, no matter where you live.

You can also give power of attorney to a lawyer to apply for the NIE for you. We help most of our clients with their NIE application. We also assist in opening a Spanish bank account. Our lawyers handle these tasks using a power of attorney.

How long does it take to apply for an NIE number in Spain?The process of obtaining an NIE in Spain usually takes 1 to 3 weeks. If you apply through a Spanish consulate in your home country, it can take 3 to 6 weeks.

What documents do I need to get an NIE number in Spain?To apply for an NIE (Foreign Identity Number) in Spain, you need the following documents:

- A completed and signed EX-15 application form
- A valid passport and a photocopy
- Two biometric photographs
- A receipt for the application fee paid to the bank using form number 790
- You need a document that explains why you need the NIE.
- This can be a sales contract, a deposit document, or a loan application.
- You must provide both the original and a photocopy.
- For minors, a birth certificate or custody document is also needed.

If a legal representative submits the application, they must provide their power of attorney and identity document. Submitting all documents will help make the NIE application process faster and easier.

Do you provide consultancy services to obtain an NIE number in Spain?We offer NIE number assistance in Spain as part of our services for clients who purchase property through us. This consultancy is provided only in connection with real estate purchases. For NIE applications outside of a property purchase, we recommend contacting independent lawyers in Spain.

Your Complete Guide: How to Get a Mortgage in Spain as a Foreigner