How to Get Your NIE in Spain in 2025 (Complete Guide)

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a foreigner identification number that you'll need for almost everything in Spain — opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, paying taxes, and applying for the Digital Nomad Visa.

What is the NIE?

The NIE is a unique number assigned to non-Spanish nationals who have economic, professional, or social interests in Spain. It's not the same as a NIF (Número de Identificación Fiscal), which is a tax identification number — although your NIE becomes your NIF once you start paying taxes.

Option 1: Apply at the Spanish Consulate Abroad

If you haven't moved to Spain yet, you can apply at your nearest Spanish consulate. Here's what you'll need:

• Form EX-15 (Solicitud de Número de Identidad de Extranjero), filled out and signed
• Your passport (original + photocopy)
• A document explaining why you need the NIE (e.g., a job offer letter, property purchase contract)
• Proof of Tasa 790 012 payment (approximately €10.71)

Book your appointment (cita previa) through the consulate's website. Processing time: 2–4 weeks.

Option 2: Apply in Spain

If you're already in Spain, apply at the Comisaría de Policía (National Police station) with a foreigners office. Steps:

• Book a cita previa at sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es — select "Policía - Certificados UE" or the NIE assignment option
• Bring Form EX-15, your passport (original + copy), and the paid Tasa 790 012
• Some offices also require padron (municipal registration) or proof of why you need the NIE

Processing time in Spain: 2–4 weeks, sometimes faster in smaller cities.

Cost

The fee is Tasa 790 012, currently €10.71. You can pay at most Spanish banks. Some consulates accept other payment methods.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Showing up without a cita previa — most offices will turn you away
• Using the wrong form — make sure it's EX-15, not EX-18 (which is for the TIE card)
• Not paying the tasa beforehand — you must bring proof of payment to your appointment
• Confusing NIE with NIF — your NIE is your identifier; you get a NIF when you start tax obligations

Track Your DNV Documents

The NIE is just one of 9 documents you need for the Digital Nomad Visa. Use our DNV Progress Tracker to stay organized and make sure you have everything ready.

Open a Bank Account

Once you have your NIE, you can open a Spanish bank account. In the meantime, these digital-first alternatives don't require a NIE and are popular with expats:

• Wise — the easiest way to hold EUR, receive salary, and pay local bills with minimal fees. Most expats use it as their primary account for the first months in Spain.
• Revolut — free multi-currency account with instant transfers. Great for travelers and freelancers.
• N26 — German digital bank that accepts Spanish residents. Clean app, free basic account.