How to Get an NIE in Spain: A Foreign National’s Guide to Unlocking Bureaucratic Spain

Spain is more than sunshine and sangria, it’s also home to one of the most bureaucratic systems in Europe. And if you’re planning to live, work, buy property, or launch a business there, your first step is navigating its gatekeeper: the NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero).

Without this number, you can’t open a bank account, pay taxes, register a company, or even sign a phone contract. Whether you’re relocating to Barcelona, investing in a Madrid flat, or setting up a remote business from Valencia, the NIE is your key to the system.

Here’s what every expat, digital nomad, or investor needs to know.

🧾 What Is an NIE and Why Is It So Important?

The NIE is a foreigner’s identification and tax number issued by the Spanish government. Think of it as your official ID for any legal, financial, or administrative activity in Spain.

You’ll need it to:

• Open a Spanish bank account
• Buy or rent property
• Set up utilities
• Register as self-employed or incorporate a company
• Pay taxes or receive income

EU nationals get it via the EU Registry Certificate (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la UE), while non-EU nationals will find their NIE printed on the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).

🗺️ Where Can You Apply?

There are two main paths:

• In Spain, via a Policía Nacional station or local Oficina de Extranjeros
• Abroad, through the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country

Applying within Spain is often faster, but requires you to already be in the country, sometimes on a tourist visa.

📝 Step-by-Step: Getting Your NIE in Spain

1. Book an Appointment

Spain runs on appointments. Use the official Cita Previa system to reserve a slot with immigration or the national police. In cities like Madrid or Barcelona, expect a wait of several weeks.

2. Prepare Your Paperwork

You'll need to bring:

• A completed EX-15 form (in Spanish) — 2 copies
• Form 790, code 012, paid at a bank (approx. €9–12)
• Your passport (original and a photocopy)
• 2 passport-sized photos
• A document justifying your request (e.g. property contract, job offer, or business plan)
• In some regions: proof of address in Spain (empadronamiento)

3. Show Up In Person

On the day of your appointment, bring all documents. If accepted, you’ll either receive your NIE immediately or be told when to return and collect it. Processing can take a few days to two weeks, depending on the region.

✉️ How to Apply for an NIE from Abroad

If you’re applying from your home country:

1. Contact the nearest Spanish consulate or embassy
2. Submit:
   • EX-15 form
   • Justification letter or supporting documents
   • Passport + copy
   • Proof of local residence
   • Paid Form 790

NIEs issued abroad can take anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks and are usually sent by email or post. You’ll still need to legalize it locally if you plan to stay for a long time.

💡 Pro Tips from the Ground

• Appointments are gold. In high-demand cities, slots open early morning or on weekends.
• Always bring extra copies of every document.
• Have a clear reason for applying. Vague “I need it just in case” answers won’t fly.
• If you're unsure, consider hiring a gestor (Spanish administrative specialist) to handle the process.

🆚 Spain vs Abroad: Which Route Is Better?

⏳ Does an NIE Expire?

The NIE number never expires. Once issued, it’s yours for life. However, the TIE card (for non-EU nationals) does have an expiration date based on your visa or residency status.

✅ Final Checklist Before You Apply

• Confirm if you’re applying as an EU or non-EU national
• Book your Cita Previa well in advance
• Gather and photocopy all necessary documents
• Clearly explain why you need the NIE

🌍 Why It Matters for Global Founders and Nomads

At Heavnn, we help remote founders and international entrepreneurs structure their business setups efficiently. If Spain is part of your lifestyle or expansion plan, the NIE is your first legal foothold.

From incorporating a Spanish company to accessing tax incentives or simply renting an apartment long-term, the NIE opens the door.