If you’re a foreign national in Spain with a Foreigner Identification Number (NIE by its Spanish acronym) and have recently acquired Spanish citizenship, you may be wondering how to change your NIE to a National Identity Document (or DNI) to update and regularise your administrative status. In this article, we explain all the steps you need to follow.
Changing NIE to DNI step by step
The process for obtaining your DNI after previously holding a NIE is the same as for any other citizen applying for their DNI for the first time. The only difference lies in the documentation you must provide:
- Go to a DNI Documentation Office after booking an appointment in advance, either by calling 060 (while in Spain) or online (link only available in Spanish).
- Provide your TIE or NIE: The General Directorate of Police states that “in cases where a person is registering for the first time as a naturalised Spanish citizen and holds a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) or a Certificate of Registration as an EU Citizen, which includes a Foreigner Identification Number (NIE), it must be presented. This is an essential requirement when applying for the DNI.”
- Attach a recent photograph: Remember that you must apply for your ID in person. The photograph must be in colour, measuring 32 x 26 millimetres, with a plain white background. It should be taken head-on, with your head fully uncovered, and without dark glasses or any clothing that could obscure or hinder identification.
- Another document that may be required is a certificate or registration form from the City Council where the applicant resides, issued no more than three months before the date of the DNI application.
It's a good idea to contact the police to clarify which documents will be requested in your case.
How to change from NIE to DNI with the Tax Agency
One of the steps you will almost certainly need to complete is updating this information with the Tax Agency. Changing your NIE to a DNI with the Tax Agency is straightforward: simply submit Form 030 or Form 036 if you are self-employed – a process that can be completed online.
How to change your NIE to DNI with Social Security
In this case, you must submit "Form TA.1 – Application for Social Security affiliation, a Social Security number or change of data". This can be done via the Social Security Online Office.
If you are self-employed, the change should be reported using Form TA.521, or through the Social Security Online Office in the “Reta Data Change” section.
Notify the change in the municipal register
Updating your personal information on the municipal register is also a straightforward procedure. You should follow the instructions provided by your local council. In most cases, this can be done online by submitting the documentation requested.
How much does it cost to change from NIE to DNI?
The fee for a DNI is set by the General State Budget Law and currently stands at €12. Payment can be made in cash or by card at the Documentation Offices or online when booking an appointment via the official website (link only available in Spanish).