Spanish NIE (EU Nationals)

What is the NIE?

The NIE is a personal identification number for foreigners in Spain. For EU citizens, it is issued as part of the EU Registration Certificate (the green card).

You need it for:

  • Working or registering as self-employed
  • Buying or renting property
  • Opening a bank account
  • Paying taxes or social security
  • Staying in Spain longer than 90 days

Who needs this process?

  • EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

  • Staying in Spain more than 90 days

  • Living, working, studying, or financially resident in Spain

Step-by-Step Process (EU Resident in Spain)

1. Book an Appointment (Cita Previa)

You must request an appointment with: Oficina de Extranjería or Policía Nacional.

How:

  • Online via the official government appointment system

  • Select:

    • Province

    • Procedure: “Certificados UE” or “Registro de ciudadano de la UE”

⚠️ Appointments can be limited; checking early in the morning often helps.

 

2. Complete the Application Form

Fill in Form EX-18.

You will need:

  • Personal details

  • Address in Spain

  • Reason for residence (work, self-employment, study, sufficient funds)

Print and sign it.

 

3. Pay the Fee

  • Form: Modelo 790 – Código 012

  • Fee: usually around €12

  • Payment options:

    • Bank payment (stamped receipt)

    • Sometimes card payment at the police office

Bring proof of payment.

 

4. Prepare Required Documents

Bring originals + copies. Mandatory for everyone:

  • Valid passport or national ID

  • Completed EX-18

  • Proof of fee payment

  • Proof of address in Spain (empadronamiento is often requested)

Plus ONE of the following (depending on your situation):

If employed

  • Work contract or

  • Certificate of employment + Social Security registration

If self-employed

  • Registration with Social Security (RETA)

  • Proof of economic activity

If not working

  • Proof of sufficient financial means (bank statements)

  • Private or public health insurance valid in Spain

If student

  • Enrollment certificate

  • Health insurance

  • Declaration of sufficient funds

 

5. Attend the Appointment

At the office:

  • Submit documents

  • Officer reviews them

  • If approved, your NIE is assigned immediately

Processing time:

  • Usually same day

  • You receive a green A4 certificate or green card showing your NIE

 

6. After Receiving Your NIE

  • The NIE number is permanent

  • The EU registration certificate does not expire, though address or status changes should be updated

  • Keep copies; replacements require another appointment

 

Spanish NIE (EU National) (Apply at Spanish Embassy/Consulate in your country)

When applying from an embassy/consulate, you obtain:

  • A NIE number only (white paper)

You do NOT obtain:

  • EU Registration Certificate (green card)

  • Residency status in Spain

Once you move to Spain and stay over 90 days, you must complete the EU resident registration in Spain separately.

 

Who Can Apply via Embassy?

  • EU / EEA / Swiss citizens

  • Living outside Spain

  • Needing a NIE for a specific purpose, such as:

    • Buying property

    • Opening a bank account

    • Inheritance or legal matters

    • Business or tax procedures

 

Step-by-Step Process (Via Spanish Embassy / Consulate)

1. Identify the Correct Consulate

You must apply at the Spanish Embassy or Consulate that has jurisdiction over your place of residence.

Each consulate may have:

  • Slightly different appointment systems

  • Slightly different document handling (in person / by post)

 

2. Book an Appointment (If Required)

Most consulates require:

  • Cita previa (online or by email)

Some allow:

  • Postal applications

  • Applications via an authorized representative

Check your consulate’s website carefully.

 

3. Complete the Application Form

Fill out Form EX-15.

Key points:

  • Select “Asignación de NIE”

  • Clearly state the reason for requesting the NIE

    • This is mandatory and important

    • Vague reasons may cause rejection

Print and sign the form.

 

4. Pay the Fee

  • Form: Modelo 790 – Código 012

  • Fee: approx. €9–€12

Payment method depends on the consulate:

  • Bank transfer

  • Payment at the consulate

  • Local payment system

Bring proof of payment.

 

5. Prepare Required Documents

Bring originals + copies (or certified copies if by post):

Mandatory documents:

  • Completed EX-15

  • Valid passport or national ID

  • Proof of fee payment

  • Proof of address in your country (if requested)

Proof of reason for NIE (required):

Examples:

  • Property purchase contract or reservation

  • Letter from bank

  • Letter from lawyer or notary

  • Business or tax documentation

⚠️ This justification is essential.

 

6. Submit the Application

Depending on the consulate:

  • In-person submission

  • Postal submission

  • Submission by authorized representative

The consulate forwards the application to Spanish authorities.

 

7. Processing Time

  • Typically 2–6 weeks

  • Can take longer depending on:

    • Consulate workload

    • Spanish police processing times

 

8. Receive Your NIE

You receive:

  • A certificate on white paper

  • Showing your NIE number

The NIE:

  • Is unique and permanent

  • Never expires

 

After Moving to Spain

Once you reside in Spain for more than 90 days, you must:

  • Apply in Spain for the EU Registration Certificate (EX-18)

  • Your NIE remains the same