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Your NIE is your foreigners' identity number (Número de Identidad de Extranjeros). It is a unique and non-transferable personal identification number. While often described as a 'personal postcode' to convey its uniqueness, it is crucial to understand that the NIE number itself stays the same forever and does not expire, remaining permanently linked to you even if you leave Spain. However, the physical NIE certificate (the paper document) may have a limited validity, often requiring re-issuance to prove your existing, permanent NIE number.
Your NIE is not proof of residence in Spain. If you intend to live in Spain permanently, you will also need to apply for legal residency, which involves obtaining a separate document like a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjeros (TIE) for non-EU citizens or a Certificate of Registration for EU citizens. You can find out more about doing so in our article How to obtain residency in Spain: a comprehensive guide.

Why do you need a NIE?
Everyone who lives in Spain has an identity number. For Spanish nationals, this is a DNI (Documento Nacional de Identidad, or national identity document); on their DNI card, they have a unique identity number, which is also their NIF (Número de Identificación Fiscal). For foreigners, it is an NIE number, which in turn would also become the foreigner's NIF for tax purposes, if required. To avoid confusion, all Spaniards also have a passport with a different number for travel purposes.
The NIE starts with a letter (X, Y, or Z), followed by seven numerical digits and a letter at the end. Historically, NIEs obtained before July 2008 commenced with an 'X', while those acquired subsequently started with a 'Y' and, more recently, with a 'Z'. You will need to quote your NIE on all types of official documentation. These include contracts (such as employment or rental agreements), bank account details, application forms, property purchases, tax declarations, and social security registration.
Foreigners who do not live in Spain also need a NIE if they wish to carry out any transaction in Spain. This might include buying a holiday home or a property to let, buying a car, opening a bank account for non-residents, or making an investment. You also need a NIE to open a business in Spain, even if you do not plan to live there once it is in operation.
NIE and associated documents
It is essential to distinguish between the permanent NIE number and the validity of the NIE certificate or associated residency documents. The NIE number itself is unique, personal, and permanent; it does not expire and remains associated with the individual for life, even if they leave Spain. However, the physical NIE certificate (the paper document) often has a limited validity. While newer certificates may not explicitly bear an expiry date, some authorities may still require a recently issued certificate or an updated data certification. This means that a "renewal" might be needed for the document, not the number.
There is a common misconception that there are two forms of NIE: One for non-residents and one for residents. There is only one form of NIE, and it is granted for the purpose for which you solicit it, whether that be for non-resident activities or registering for residency in Spain. Your NIE is not proof of residency, nor is it linked in any way to your residential status; it is simply an official identification number. This is the case for EU and non-EU citizens alike.
Non-EU citizens in Spain for more than 3 months
Non-EU citizens who wish to live in Spain for more than 3 months should apply for an NIE before they apply for legal residence in Spain. Once they have their NIE number, they can then apply for a TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjeros), and the same NIE number will be on their TIE card. A TIE card is proof of residence in Spain. You can find out how to apply for this in our article TIE: What is it, who needs it, and how to get it.
EU Citizens in Spain for more than 3 months
EU citizens planning to live in Spain for longer than 90 days are required to register at the Central Registry for Foreign Nationals. Once registered, they will receive a certificate, often known as a 'green certificate', which provides proof of residence in Spain. You do not need to obtain a NIE (Foreigners' National Identity Number) first. Getting your 'green certificate' includes assigning you a NIE number. However, you may already have a NIE if you applied for this earlier for other reasons. If this is the case, you will not get a different NIE number, as these are the same for life. You can find out how to apply for a certificate of registration in our article Spanish residency: What is a 'green certificate' for?

Step-by-step NIE application process
The core steps for obtaining a NIE are largely similar for both EU and non-EU citizens, with a few key distinctions in required identification:
- Determine where to apply:
- In Spain: You can apply at a local Foreigner's Office (Oficina de Extranjeros) or a police station (Comisaría de Policía) that handles foreign documentation.
- From abroad: You can apply at a Spanish Consular Office or Embassy in your country of residence.
- Gather required documents:
- Application form (EX-15): This is the standard form for all NIE applications. It's recommended to complete the form online, print it, and sign it. You must clearly state the economic, professional, or social reasons for needing the NIE in Spanish on the form. Here you can read an English guide for filling out the form.
- Valid identification:
- For EU citizens: Original and colour photocopy of your valid passport or national ID card (copy both front and back sides of the ID card).
- For Non-EU citizens: Original and a colour photocopy of your valid passport's biographical data page.
- Proof of purpose: You need documentary evidence to justify why you need the NIE. This could include a job offer letter, confirmation of enrollment from a Spanish educational institution, a property purchase agreement (e.g., an arras contract), or other relevant documents.
- Proof of address (if applying in Spain): A document proving your address in Spain is necessary. Acceptable forms include a rental contract, a recent utility bill, or a certificate of empadronamiento (proof of registration at the local town hall).
- Payment receipt for administrative fee (Modelo 790 Code 012): Proof of payment for the administrative fee is mandatory. The fee is approximately €10. It is essential to retain the stamped receipt provided by the bank as definitive proof of payment, if paid in cash over the counter.
- Passport photos: While not universally required, some regions or consulates may request two recent passport-sized photos. It's advisable to have them prepared.
- Translated and legalised documents: Any foreign documents not originally in Spanish must be officially translated by a sworn translator (traductor jurado) and, if required, apostilled to ensure their legal validity in Spain. Multilingual standard EU forms generally do not require translation or authentication.
- For applications via a representative: If someone is applying on your behalf, they must present their original and a copy of their identity document or passport, along with an apostilled power of attorney explicitly stating their empowerment to present the NIE application.
- For minors or incapacitated individuals: A copy of the family record book, birth certificate, or guardianship document must be presented, along with the valid passport or ID of the parent or guardian.
- Book an appointment (Cita Previa):
- In Spain: A prior appointment is generally required for NIE applications. Appointments are typically scheduled online through the official government website for immigration or through the National Police (Policia Nacional) in your area. Securing an appointment can sometimes take several weeks, often 3-4 weeks in advance, depending on demand and location.
- From abroad: Contact the nearest Spanish Consular Office for their specific appointment procedures, as these can vary by location. Some consulates may offer specific walk-in hours.
- Submit application:
- On the scheduled day, arrive punctually with all original documents, their photocopies, the completed EX-15 form, and the fee payment receipt.
- Be prepared to provide any additional information or answer questions related to the application. In some instances, fingerprints may be taken during the appointment.
- Receive your NIE:
- After the application is processed, the NIE is typically issued within a few days to a few weeks. In certain regions or under specific conditions, same-day issuance may be possible.
- The NIE is commonly sent to the applicant via email, so providing a valid email address on the application form is crucial for notification purposes.
- The NIE number itself is personal, unique, and exclusive, and once assigned, it remains the same for the individual throughout their lifetime; it does not expire.
In conclusion, navigating the process of obtaining an NIE in Spain is a crucial step for anyone looking to reside, work, or engage in significant activities within the country. While the core steps are generally consistent for both EU and non-EU citizens, understanding the specific requirements for your nationality and situation is key. By carefully preparing your documents, booking appointments in advance, you can ensure a smoother application process. If you would like to know more about the different types of administrative documents, you may find it helpful to read our article What is the difference between Residencia, padrón, NIE and TIE?
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The information contained in this article is for general information and guidance only. Our articles aim to enrich your understanding of the Spanish property market, not to provide professional legal, tax or financial advice. For specialised guidance, it is wise to consult with professional advisers. While we strive for accuracy, thinkSPAIN cannot guarantee that the information we supply is either complete or fully up to date. Decisions based on our articles are made at your discretion. thinkSPAIN assumes no liability for any actions taken, errors or omissions.
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