What is a NIE Number in Spain and How to Obtain It?

Let’s talk a little about the NIE in Spain and the importance it has for foreigners.

According to the official website of the Ministry of the Interior, the NIE in Spain is a special number granted to foreigners who have a certain connection with the country. Such connection can be economic, professional or social in nature. This information must be reflected in documents presented to the relevant entities by the foreigner. It may be an employment contract, the opening of a bank account or a marriage certificate, depending on the case.

When is a NIE necessary? What is the difference with a TIE?

When someone of foreign origin comes to Spain with the intention of staying for less than three months, in most cases they will only need a valid passport. For some countries, there is the possibility of traveling with a national identity document, without having to show your passport.

If you wish or need to spend more than three months in Spain, this article may be very useful to you. Regardless of whether your reasons are social, professional or economic, it is important that you register at the nearest General Commissariat for Immigration and Borders. There you will be provided with a Foreign Identity Number (NIE).

It is important to emphasize that the Foreign Identity Number (NIE) is not the same as the Foreign Identity Card (TIE). The TIE is an exclusive document designed for foreigners legally staying in Spain for a period of more than six months.

What’s the process to get a NIE?

Foreigners who have economic, professional or social reasons to stay in Spain will be assigned an identification number. This is for the purpose of identifying them and keeping track of them. This number must be included in all their legal documents, as well as any procedure linked to your identity card or passport.

This number will be assigned at the time the foreigner’s application is processed, as long as it meets the necessary requirements.

The applicant must communicate the reasons why he needs said number. This can be done through Immigration Offices or Police Stations. You can also use a legal representative. If the applicant is outside of Spain, he must go through the Spanish diplomatic entities or Consular Offices in his country of residence. It is extremely important to go to the office that corresponds to your residential area.

Who is in charge of issuing the NIE in Spain?

In Spain, the General Directorate of the Police is responsible for issuing the NIE number. As we mentioned previously, the first step that must be taken to start this procedure is to visit the General Commissariat for Immigration and Borders at the nearest Police Station.

What documentation is needed to request the NIE?

Please ensure you have an original and a signed copy of the EX15 application. This form must be completed completely and correctly by the applicant or a third party for the process to proceed smoothly. You have the possibility of filling out the application online and then printing it.

When you fill out the application, it is important that you provide clear and detailed information about your economic, professional or social reasons for applying for a NIE. You must fill out a page concerning your personal information, and you will provide a valid original passport. Of course, there are some exceptions to the rule. Members from European Union countries will only need to present a national ID card, along with a copy of both sides.

What should I do if I am using a legal representative?

If you are making your request through a legal representative, you must provide a series of special documents. First of all, a copy and an original of the passport or identity document of the legal representative, along with a power of attorney that specifies the authorization to apply for a NIE.

If the applicant is a minor, disabled or suffers from some type of condition, they must provide a birth certificate and a document that identifies their legal guardian. It is also necessary to provide the authorities with a national identity document of the applicant’s parents or, failing that, of a guardian appointed by the court.

How long will you have to wait for a response?

Typically, the NIE is delivered two weeks after the first application is made, although delays may occur due to unforeseen circumstances. Once the process has finished, an email with the NIE will be sent to the applicant. It will include the ability to subscribe to receive notifications.

The NIE is a special identification number that is granted to foreigners residing in Spain, who have important economic, professional or social reasons to stay for a long period of time. It is a unique and personal number that allows you to easily identify yourself to the authorities.

It can be requested through Consular Offices and other Spanish Public Administration entities. This document cannot be used as proof of residence in Spain nor does it grant permanent residence.

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