Obtaining an NIE in Spain

Direct petitions for an NIE can be submitted in Spain or at the applicant's home country's consulate.  Either the requester directly or a fully authorized representative may submit it. Every time, the applicant or their representative must be present in person.

Documentation needed to apply for an NIE at the consular office​​

    EX-15 standard application form, correctly completed but unsigned. The form should ideally be completed online and printed. The application form must include the reasons for the NIE application that are financial, professional, or social in nature.

proof in writing that a Nie Spain is needed.

The applicant must provide both the original and a copy of the biographical information page from their current passport. The front and back of one identity document, in both the original and a copy, must be shown to prove your identity. Only the certified copy of the document must be submitted if the application is being presented by a representative.

    If the NIE is obtained through a representative, the representative must additionally produce the original and a copy of the representative's identity document or passport, as well as a power of attorney that expressly specifies that the representative is authorized to present the NIE application. If the applicant is a minor or incompetent, a copy of the family record book, the birth certificate, or the guardianship documentation must be submitted. The parent or guardian must also present their valid passport or ID.

evidence of one's residence in the consular area.

filled out form 790 with code 12.

The fee, and on the day of the appointment, it must be paid with a card at the consular office.

An NIE is assigned by the General Commissariat for Immigration and Borders, which reports to the Spanish Directorate-General for Police. The consular office is unable to speed up the document processing time. The NIE is normally provided in three weeks, however, this time frame may be prolonged due to events beyond the administration's control. The NIE is sent to the applicant through email. Therefore, an email address is needed on the application form for notification purposes.