How to get your NIE in Spain

The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is the tax and identity number Spain assigns to foreigners. Landlords, banks and notaries will ask for it before you can sign a lease or a purchase.

Two common routes You can apply in Spain at a Police station (Policía Nacional) with an appointment (cita previa), or apply at a Spanish consulate in your home country before you move. EU and non-EU citizens follow slightly different forms.

What you usually need A completed EX-15 form, your passport plus a copy, a reason for the request (a job offer, a rental, a purchase), the Modelo 790 fee receipt, and a passport photo. Bring originals and copies.

How long it takes Appointments are the bottleneck — they can be scarce in big cities. Once seen, many people leave with the NIE the same day. Rules and document lists change, so confirm the current requirements with the relevant office or a gestor before you go.