Why a Spanish NIE number is important for foreign nationals in Spain – and how we can help
The Spanish NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is the official identification and tax number for foreign nationals in Spain. It is required for a wide range of legal, financial, and administrative matters, including opening a bank account, working, buying or selling property, and signing utility contracts. Without an NIE, the Spanish tax authorities cannot process certain tax obligations, including income tax (IRPF) and annual wealth tax (Patrimonio), which may apply to both resident and non-resident property owners.
How to apply
The application process differs depending on whether you are applying from within Spain or from abroad.
1. If you are in Spain
• Book an appointment: You will need to arrange a cita previa to apply in person at a National Police Station (Policía Nacional) or Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjeros) through the Spanish Public Administration Portal.
• Complete Form EX-15: Download and complete the official EX-15 application form.
• Pay the fee: Complete, print, and pay Form Modelo 790-012 at a local bank. The fee is usually around €12.
• Attend your appointment: Take the completed EX-15 form, proof of fee payment, your valid passport (together with a photocopy of the identification page), and evidence of the economic, professional, or social reason for requesting the NIE.
Please note that this process can be time-consuming and, at times, frustrating, as it involves navigating Spanish administrative procedures. Applicants are often required to complete multiple forms and may face long waiting times for an appointment.
2. If you are outside Spain
If you are outside Spain, you can apply through our premium service by signing a Spanish Power of Attorney in your home country, authorising us to obtain your NIE number on your behalf in Spain.
We will prepare the Power of Attorney in both Spanish and English for you to sign before a notary public close to your home address in the UK.
We will then arrange for the document to be legalised with an Apostille through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office so that it is valid for use in Spain.
This process usually takes between 5 and 10 days from the date the Power of Attorney is signed.
This is often the quickest option if you do not wish to travel to Spain solely to obtain your NIE.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need assistance obtaining a Spanish NIE number. We would be delighted to help you through the process. Please contact Yolanda Perez Berges at yolada.perez@theburnsidepartnership.com.