Obtain A NIE Number in Spain

Securing You NIE Number: A Guide for Foreigners in Spain

Most of you are unaware of the procedure. Here’s a complete guide!

What is NIE?

The NIE is a tax identification number for foreigners in Spain. It’s used for official purposes, such as opening a bank account, buying property, paying taxes, and legal transactions.

How to obtain a NIE in Spain?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get your NIE:

Determine Where to Apply:

Depending on your location, you can apply for an NIE in Spain at the local Foreigner’s Office (Oficina de Extranjeros) or the police station (Comisaría de Policía).

If you’re outside of Spain, you can also apply at your home country’s Spanish Consulate or Embassy.

Schedule an Appointment:

A prior appointment is required for the NIE application process. 

To make an appointment, call the designated phone number: 037697900, extension 1.

Office hours for appointments are typically from Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 13:00.

Prepare Required Documents:

You’ll need to gather the necessary documents before your appointment. Here’s what you’ll generally need: The complete application form (EX-15), the “Solicitud de Número de Identidad de Extranjero” form. 

You can usually download this form online or obtain it at the office.

Besides, you have to bring your original passport along with a photocopy of the main page (containing your personal details).Proof of Reason for NIE is also required.

Attend Your Appointment:

On the day of your appointment, arrive on time with all your documents. 

Be prepared to provide any additional information or answer questions related to your application. You may need to have your fingerprints taken during the appointment.

Wait for Processing:

After submitting your application, you’ll receive a document acknowledging that your NIE application is being processed. 

Processing times can vary, but you can typically expect your NIE card (a small green card) to be ready for collection within a few weeks.

Documents Needed for Applying for a NIE at the Consular Office

Application Form (EX-15):

Please complete this form online, print it, and sign it. Then, explain why you need the NIE (e.g., for work, study, or living in Spain).

Passport or ID:

Bring the original and a copy of your valid passport.EU citizens can use their national ID card (both sides, original and copy).

For Representatives (If Someone Applies for You):

If someone else is applying for you, they need a certified copy of their ID or passport. They also need a written permission letter (power of attorney) from you.

For Minors or Incapacitated Applicants:

If you’re under 18 or unable to act, provide a copy of your family record book, birth certificate, or guardianship document. 

Also, show the parent’s or guardian’s valid passport or ID and a document proving your address in the Consular area.

Payment Form 790 (Code 12):

Fill out form 790 online. Pay the fee, which was 9.74 euros in 2021.

Prepare these documents before your Consular Office appointment to apply for your NIE smoothly.

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The process of obtaining an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) online in Spain 

It might vary depending on your circumstances. Here’s a general guide on how to obtain a NIE number online:

• To access the Sede Electrónica (Electronic Headquarters) of the Spanish Government, visit the official website: Sede Electrónica.
• You will need to select the province where you intend to reside or where you will conduct your business.
• Complete the Online form and look for the option related to “Solicitud de Número de Identidad de Extranjero (NIE)” or similar.
• Fill out the online form (usually EX-15) with your details and reason for requesting the NIE (like work, study, or residence), and upload any required supporting documents.
• Scan or take photos of the required documents, such as your passport, proof of the reason for NIE (like a job contract or enrollment letter from a school), and any other documents specific to your situation.
• Once you have completed the form and uploaded the documents, apply online.
• You will likely need to pay the NIE processing fee online as part of the application process. The cost can vary.
• After submission, you should receive a confirmation of your application. This might include a reference number or receipt.
• The authorities will process your application, and you will generally receive notification of the decision and the NIE assignment.
• If your application is approved, you may need to arrange a visit to the relevant office to collect your NIE card (Tarjeta de Identificación de Extranjero).

What does an EU citizen do to get NIE in Spain?

Suppose you’re an EU citizen planning to stay in Spain for an extended period. You might need a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) for official transactions, such as opening a bank account, buying property, or working. Here’s how EU citizens can obtain an NIE in Spain:

Steps to Obtain NIE for EU Citizens:

• As an EU citizen, you’ll need to fill out the EX-18 form specifically for EU citizens applying for an NIE. This form can be downloaded from the Spanish government’s website or obtained at the local Foreigner’s Office (Oficina de Extranjeros) or police station (Comisaría de Policía).
• Bring the original and a photocopy of your valid passport or national ID card.
• Provide documentation to explain why you need the NIE. This could include a job offer letter, Spanish school or university enrollment, property purchase agreement, or other relevant documents.
• Please show a document proving your address in Spain. This could be a rental contract, utility bill, or certificate of empadronamiento (proof of registration at your local town hall).
• Fill out the EX-18 form with your details and the reason for requesting the NIE.
• Make an appointment at the local Foreigner’s Office or police station.Appointments can often be scheduled online or by phone.
• Bring all your required documents and the completed EX-18 form to the appointment.
• At your appointment, submit all the required documents to the authorities.
• You may also need to pay the NIE processing fee at this time. The cost can vary, so check the current amount.
• After your application is processed, you will receive an NIE certificate (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión) on the spot, or it might be sent to you later.
• This certificate will have your NIE number, which you can use for official purposes in Spain.

FAQs

Here are some important FAQs:

1. Do I need an appointment to apply for an NIE?

Yes, appointments are generally required for NIE applications. You can schedule an appointment at the local Foreigner’s Office, police station, or online, depending on the region.

2. How long does it take to get a NIE?

Processing times can vary, but depending on the office’s workload, you might receive your NIE certificate on the same day of your appointment or within a few weeks.

Conclusion

Hence, obtaining an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) in Spain is necessary for foreigners who plan to stay in the country for an extended period for reasons such as work, study, residency, or property ownership. You can follow the above guidelines to get it.

The NIE is a personal and unique tax identification number you can only obtain with your passport. This number is used to track all financial and legal activities in Spain. For all financial transactions that involve the Spanish Tax Office you will need your NIE.