If you're planning to move to Spain or recently arrived, you'll need a Número de Identificación de Extranjero (NIE) for almost anything official: opening a bank account, buying property, signing work contracts or even setting up utilities. But what if you're not in Spain yet? Can you get a remote NIE without traveling?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about applying for an NIE, whether from Spain or abroad. You'll find clear steps, required documents and answers to common questions. Let's get straight to it.
What is an NIE?
The NIE, or Foreigner Identity Number, is a unique identifier assigned to non-Spanish residents. It's essential for various legal and financial activities in Spain, such as buying property, opening a bank account or setting up utilities.
Difference between NIE and Residency
While the NIE serves as a tax identification number, it doesn't grant residency. Residency pertains to your legal right to live in Spain, whereas the NIE is primarily for identification in economic and legal matters.
How to obtain your NIE
Applying for an NIE in Spain
To get your Número de Identificación de Extranjero (NIE) in Spain, follow these steps:
Complete the EX-15 application form: Print two copies of the EX-15 application form. Fill out the form, which must be completed in Spanish, and sign them both.
Complete the TASA790_012 form digitally: Fill out the TASA790_012 form digitally. The form must be completed in Spanish. Print the completed TASA790_12 form, sign the 3
pages and take it to any bank in Spain. Go to the bank on weekdays and
pay the € 9,84 at the bank in cash. Don't forget to take the payment receipt with you.
Gather other necessary documents:
- Valid passport: Bring your original passport and make a photocopy of your passport.
- Photo in passport format: Make sure you have 1 photo in passport format to bring to the appointment. The photo is only for administrative purposes.
Schedule an appointment: Book an appointment online through the official Spanish government website.
Attend the appointment: Arrive at the designated office with all your documents. A police officer will check all your documents and create your NIE number.
Collect your NIE: You receive your NIE number immediately.
If you need help with filling in your documents and scheduling your NIE appointment, let us handle it for you with our NIE TO GO! service.
Apply for a NIE via a representative in Spain
Do you prefer us to go to your NIE appointment on your behalf? Then you can use our NIE at ease by Spanish Notary service. We will make an appointment for you in a Spanish Notary. The notary will arrange a legalized copy of your passport/ID card and a legalized and signed power of attorney. These documents, together with a recent photo in passport format, you will send to us. Once we receive your documents, we will arrange the other Spanish documents and pay the tax at the bank for you. We will schedule your appointment and go to the appointment on your behalf.
If you're applying for an NIE at ease by Spanish Notary and you're staying near Pego, we can arrange your notary appointment locally. This allows us to assist you in person during the appointment and collect the documents immediately. By handling everything on the spot, you avoid delays caused by sending it by mail, making the process faster and more efficient.
Apply for a Remote NIE in Spain
If you prefer to get your NIE without traveling to Spain, we offer an NIE 100% Remote service. You can complete the process from anywhere with our assistance. We will schedule an appointment to arrange the power of attorney with our online notary. Our online notary will arrange a legalized copy of your passport/ID card and a legalized and signed power of attorney. These documents will be sent to us with an Apostille. Once we receive your documents, we will arrange the other Spanish documents and pay the tax at the bank for you. We will schedule your appointment and go to the appointment on your behalf.
Processing time and validity
The availability of NIE appointments is very scarce. Our experience shows that this takes a maximum of 3 weeks. Given the scarcity of appointments, we cannot guarantee that the appointment will be at the nearest police station to where you are staying, but we will of course do our utmost best to ensure this.
Tip: Make sure you always have a digital copy in your phone!
Once issued, the NIE number is permanent and doesn't expire. In case you don't know your NIE number for whatever reason, you need to make a new appointment and gather all the documents to receive your NIE number.
Your NIE is essential in Spain
Obtaining a Número de Identificación de Extranjero (NIE) is essential for foreigners engaging in legal and economic activities in Spain. This unique identification number is required for various transactions, such as opening a bank account, purchasing property or securing employment.
Understanding the NIE application process ensures compliance with Spanish regulations and facilitates a smoother transition into Spanish life. Whether you're planning to move, work remotely or invest in property, securing your NIE should be a priority to fully integrate and operate within Spain's legal framework.
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