Practical guide
How to get NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)
Clear and practical guide to NIE application in Spain.
Why you need NIE
NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your foreigner identification number and you simply cannot function in Spain without it. Without NIE you cannot open a bank account, and without a bank account almost nothing else can be arranged - property purchase, utility contracts, employment contracts or any other official procedure in Spain.
NIE application steps
Book your appointment (cita previa)
Reserve a slot (cita previa) at the police office (foreigners department) in Spain, or at the consulate if you are applying from abroad - the process differs by location. Book your appointment at sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es.
Prepare EX-15 form and pay Tasa 790 fee
Complete the EX-15 form and attach your passport and a brief reason for the application. If you are applying on your own (without a gestoria), you also need to pay the Tasa 790 fee (modelo 790-012) in advance - approximately 10 EUR. Bring the payment confirmation with you.
Submit and collect confirmation
Follow the office instructions and collect the confirmation with your assigned NIE number at the stated time - without it you will not be able to complete further steps (contracts, bank).
Common mistakes
Applicants often arrive without document copies, without a completed or paid Tasa 790 payment form, or with an invalid appointment. A checklist and verifying requirements on the specific office website will save you a lot of time and unnecessary repeat visits.
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