Getting Your NIE: A Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners

The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is the most important document you will ever get in Spain. Before you can buy a house, sign an employment contract, buy a car, open a bank account, or even set up home internet, you need an NIE.

Despite its importance, the process of getting one is notoriously frustrating. This guide walks you through what it is and how to get it.

What exactly is the NIE?

The NIE is simply a tax identification number for foreigners. It consists of a letter (usually Y or Z), followed by seven numbers, and ending with another letter (e.g., Y-1234567-B).

Step 1: Booking the Appointment (Cita Previa)

This is universally considered the hardest step. You must book an appointment with a local police station (Comisaría) or the Extranjería online. In major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, or Valencia, appointments are released at seemingly random times and are snatched up in seconds.

• Tip: Check the portal early in the morning (around 8:00 AM) or on Friday mornings, when many offices release their weekly batches.

Step 2: Preparing the Documentation

You will need to bring the following to your appointment:

1. The EX-15 Form: Filled out and signed.
2. Modelo 790 Código 012: This is the tax form. You must fill this out online, print it, and take it to a Spanish bank to pay the fee (around €10) before your appointment. The police station will not accept cash or card.
3. Your Passport: Original and a full copy.
4. Proof of Reason: You need a valid reason for requesting an NIE. This could be an acceptance letter from a university, a pre-contract for a job, or an arras agreement for buying a house.

Step 3: The Appointment

Show up exactly on time. Hand over your documents. If everything is correct, the official will process your application. In some smaller municipalities, they will print the white NIE paper and hand it to you immediately. In cities like Barcelona, you may be told to return the next day or in a few days to pick it up.

Why use a lawyer?

Because getting a cita previa is incredibly difficult, and because turning up with the wrong form will result in being turned away (and having to start the appointment hunt all over again), many expats hire a professional.

Professionals often have access to a dedicated appointment portal or know the exact release times for specific police stations.