When moving to Spain, obtaining your NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is one of the first and most important steps you will take. Whether you want to work, study, open a bank account, buy property, or pay taxes in Spain, you will need this foreign tax identification number.
Below, we explain how to get a NIE in Spain in 2025, what documents you need, how to book a NIE appointment online, how much the NIE tax costs, and key tips to avoid delays in the Spanish bureaucracy.
What is a NIE Number in Spain?
The NIE number is a mandatory tax identification number for foreigners in Spain, required for all legal, financial, and administrative procedures.
- EU citizens: Must apply for a NIE within three months of arriving in Spain.
- Non-EU citizens (including UK citizens post-Brexit): Receive a TIE card (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) alongside residency and are assigned a NIE number automatically as part of the process.
Your NIE number does not expire; it is valid for life, so once you have it, you can use it indefinitely in Spain.
How to get a NIE in Spain: step-by-step (2025)
Book your NIE appointment online
You must book your NIE appointment (cita previa) on the official Spanish government website:
Book your NIE appointment here
- Choose your province.
- Select:
- “Certificados UE” if you are an EU citizen.
- “Expedición de tarjeta de identidad de extranjero” if you are a non-EU citizen.
- Fill in your personal information and confirm your appointment.
Appointment delays vary by location. In busy areas like Barcelona or Madrid, it may take 4–8 weeks to secure an appointment, so book immediately upon arrival or as soon as you know your move date.
If you apply through a Spanish consulate abroad, expect the process to take 6–10 weeks depending on your country.
Gather all required documents for your NIE in Spain
What documents do you need for a NIE in Spain in 2025? Before you make a Spanish NIE number appointment at your closest police station that deals with NIEs, you must make sure you have filled in all the relevant application forms and brought together all the necessary paperwork:
- You must print out this NIE number Spain form (EX-18), complete it and take two copies with you to the appointment. It must be written in Spanish, but you can see the same NIE application form in English online just as a guide. Do not bring the English form with you to the appointment because only the Spanish one is valid! Note that the EX-15 is the form used by non-EU citizens and is a general NIE request for tax, buying property, etc
- All applicants for the Spanish NIE must also have an original and a photocopy of a document that explains their reason for wanting a NIE. This can be a property purchase agreement, mortgage contract, employment contract or any other official document that certifies you have financial or professional interests in Spain.
- Take along your passport, both the original and photocopies, and some passport-size colour photos. Non-EU citizens would also be advised to take their landing card, visa or other proof of legal entry into Spain.
- How much is the tax for NIE? In 2023, you will also have to pay 12 euros in taxes for your NIE number. You need to fill in a second form online, the 790, print it, bring it to a bank (they’ll know what to do) and pay. Some banks even provide the possibility to pay this tax on an ATM, so it couldn’t be easier. Be very careful when filling in the form, however, not to mix instructions for EU citizens with those for non-EU citizens, because the boxes you have to tick are different.
Attend Your NIE Appointment
At your Oficina de Extranjeros (Immigration Office) or Policía Nacional, bring:
- All completed forms and copies.
- Passport and copies.
- Proof of payment of the NIE tax.
- Proof of why you need the NIE.
- Visa documents if required.
The official will review your documents, and you may receive your NIE certificate immediately or be asked to return in 5–10 working days to collect it, depending on your region.
Important tips for your NIE application
- Photocopy everything. Spanish offices may require multiple copies, and lacking documents will delay your NIE application.
Check your local procedure. Each province has slight variations in processing NIE requests.
Remain calm with Spanish bureaucracy. It is normal for the process to take time.
Store your NIE securely. Once issued, it is valid indefinitely, but always keep copies for property purchases, bank procedures, and tax filings in Spain.
FAQs about NIE numbers in Spain
How long does a NIE number last in Spain?
It lasts forever and does not need renewal unless linked to your residence permit.
Can I get a NIE before arriving in Spain?
Yes, you can apply through a Spanish consulate abroad, but the process typically takes longer.
Can I get a NIE without a job offer or property?
Yes, but you need to demonstrate a valid economic, professional, or social reason for needing it in Spain.
How much does a NIE cost in Spain in 2025?
The NIE tax fee is €12.00 in 2025.
Start your NIE process and find your home in Spain
Now that you know how to get your NIE number in Spain step-by-step, it is best to start the process as soon as possible. It is the essential document you will need as an expat in Spain to work, study, open a bank account, buy property, or pay taxes legally.
Once you have your NIE, you can start searching for your dream property to buy or rent in Spain on idealista, the leading platform for finding flats, villas, and country houses across Spain, helping you settle into your new life with confidence.
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