NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)

A Número de Identificación de Extranjero (NIE) is a tax identification number in Spain essential for various legal and financial transactions. EU citizens need a NIE for activities such as opening a bank account, signing a lease, working, or buying property. There are two types of NIE: the temporary NIE (NIE Blanco) and the permanent NIE (NIE Verde). This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining both.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a NIE

1. Understand the NIE Types

Temporary NIE (NIE Blanco)

• Validity: Valid for up to three months.
• Purpose: For short-term activities like property purchases, opening a bank account, or initial job search.

Permanent NIE (NIE Verde)

• Validity: Permanent and valid as long as you remain a resident in Spain.
• Purpose: For long-term residence and activities in Spain.

2. Gather Required Documents

To apply for a NIE, you need the following documents:

• Completed Application Form (EX-15 for NIE Blanco, EX-18 for NIE Verde): Download from the Spanish government’s website.
• Original and Copy of Passport: Ensure it is valid.
• Proof of Reason for NIE Application: E.g., job offer, property purchase agreement, or bank statement.
• Passport-Sized Photos: Typically two.
• Proof of Address in Spain: A rental contract or utility bill.
• Proof of Medical Insurance: Required for NIE Verde.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or income proof (for NIE Verde).

3. Complete the Application Form

Download and fill out the appropriate form:

• EX-15 for Temporary NIE (NIE Blanco).
• EX-18 for Permanent NIE (NIE Verde).

Ensure all details are accurate. Specify the reason for your NIE request.

4. Make an Appointment

Schedule an appointment at the nearest Oficina de Extranjeros (Foreigners’ Office) or police station with a foreigners’ department. Appointments can be made online through the Spanish government’s website.

5. Attend the Appointment

On the day of your appointment:

• Arrive early and bring all required documents.
• Present your documents to the official.
• Answer any questions and provide additional information if requested.

6. Pay the NIE Fee

A fee is required to process your NIE application. The specific amounts are as follows:

• Temporary NIE (NIE Blanco): €9.84.
• Permanent NIE (NIE Verde): €12.00.

Payment can be made at a bank using the provided form (Modelo 790).

• Complete and download Modelo 790 012 form

7. Collect Your NIE

After processing, which can take from a few days to several weeks, you will receive your NIE. You may need to return to the office to collect it or it may be mailed to you.

Detailed Breakdown of Each Step

Step 1: Understand the NIE Types

Temporary NIE (NIE Blanco)

• Suitable for initial, short-term engagements.
• Examples: Opening a bank account, purchasing property, temporary work contracts.

Permanent NIE (NIE Verde)

• Required for long-term residence.
• Examples: Long-term employment, residing for more than three months, or engaging in long-term business activities.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• Application Form (EX-15 for NIE Blanco, EX-18 for NIE Verde): Download and fill out.
• Original Passport and Copy: Valid passport.
• Proof of Reason for Application: E.g., job contract, property purchase agreement.
• Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent photos.
• Proof of Address: Rental contract, utility bill.
• Additional Documents for NIE Verde:
  • Medical Insurance: Private or public health insurance.
  • Financial Means: Bank statements, proof of income.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

• Download the correct form.
• Fill out all personal details and specify the reason for your NIE request.
• Ensure no mistakes as errors can delay the process.

Step 4: Make an Appointment

• Visit the Spanish government website for online appointments.
• Select your nearest Oficina de Extranjeros or police station.
• Choose a suitable date and time.
• Print the appointment confirmation.

Step 5: Attend the Appointment

• Bring all required documents.
• Arrive early to avoid any complications.
• Be prepared to explain your reason for requesting a NIE.
• The official will review your application and documents.

Step 6: Pay the NIE Fee

• You will receive a payment form (Modelo 790).
• Take this form to a bank and pay the fee (€9.84 for NIE Blanco, €12.00 for NIE Verde).
• Bring the stamped receipt back to the office as proof of payment.

Step 7: Collect Your NIE

• Processing times vary; it can take from a few days to several weeks.
• You may be notified to collect your NIE in person or receive it by mail.
• Keep your NIE number safe as it is crucial for many transactions in Spain.

Additional Tips

• Language: If you are not fluent in Spanish, consider bringing a translator.
• Documents: Always bring both original and copies of your documents.
• Appointments: They can be hard to get, so book early.
• Preparation: Ensure all forms are completed correctly to avoid delays.