What is a NIE and who needs one?
The NIE is a personal identification number assigned to every foreigner who has financial, professional, or legal dealings in Spain. It is not a residence permit — it is simply your tax and identity reference number, and it stays with you for life.
Anyone starting a job in Spain will need one. EU citizens and non-EU citizens follow slightly different routes, but the core appointment process is the same.
The documents you’ll need
Bring originals and a photocopy of each of the following to your appointment:
- •A valid passport (and a copy of the photo page)
- •A completed EX-15 application form
- •Proof of why you need the NIE — usually a job offer or employment contract
- •Proof of payment of the Modelo 790 (Código 012) fee
- •For non-EU citizens: a visa or residence document where applicable
Booking the appointment (cita previa)
NIE appointments are booked online through the “cita previa” system for the police station or foreigners’ office in your province. Appointment availability varies dramatically by city — in busy areas like Barcelona and Madrid, slots can disappear within minutes of being released.
A practical tip: check the booking site early in the morning, and be flexible about which office you visit. Smaller towns near your city often have far more availability.
At the appointment
Arrive early with your documents neatly organised. The appointment itself is short — an official checks your paperwork, takes your fee receipt, and either issues the NIE on the spot or tells you when to collect it.
Most relocation packages we offer include help with exactly this process, so you won’t be navigating Spanish bureaucracy alone.