Applying for an NIE Number in Spain

What Dutch and Belgian citizens need to know

If you’re planning to live, work, invest, or stay long-term in Spain, one of the first steps is applying for a Número de Identificación de Extranjero, or NIE number. This number is essential for nearly all legal and financial activities — from opening a bank account to buying property.

This guide explains the three main ways to apply for an NIE number and outlines exactly what documents you’ll need for each method.

What is an NIE number, and why do you need one?

The NIE number is a personal identification number assigned by the Spanish government to non-Spanish residents. It’s required for:

• signing employment or rental contracts

• opening a Spanish bank account

• buying or selling real estate

• registering with Spanish tax or social security authorities

• applying for utilities, mobile contracts, or insurance

You’ll need it whether you’re staying temporarily or planning to settle down.

Three ways to apply for an NIE number

There are three main methods to obtain an NIE, depending on your situation and how involved you want to be in the paperwork.

Applying via a representative (with power of attorney)

This is the most convenient option, especially if you’re not yet in Spain or don’t want to deal with Spanish bureaucracy yourself. You give legal authorisation — called a power of attorney — to a local lawyer or administrative expert (gestor), who applies for the NIE on your behalf.

Benefits:

• no need to be physically present in Spain

• handled entirely by professionals

• especially useful when buying property or relocating remotely

Documents usually required:

• copy of your passport or national ID (front and back)

• passport photo in colour

• your full address and occupation

• full names of both parents

• written explanation of why you need an NIE (e.g., “for property purchase”)

Estimated cost:
Expect to pay between €100 and €160 for the notary and another €150–€300 for the full service, including the application.

Applying in person at a police station in Spain

If you’re already in Spain and want to handle the application yourself, you can apply in person at a Policía Nacional office that has a foreigner’s department (Oficina de Extranjería).

Important: Appointments are required and often booked out weeks in advance. Also, the process is fully in Spanish.

Steps:

1. Book an appointment via the official portal: sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es

2. Prepare the following documents:

   • Form EX-15 (filled out in Spanish, in duplicate)

   • Modelo 790, código 012 fee form (completed and paid at a Spanish bank; bring proof of payment)

   • passport or ID (original + copy)

   • recent passport photo

   • document explaining why you need the NIE (e.g., signed reservation contract, employment offer)

Note:
Incorrect or missing paperwork can lead to delays or rejection, and you may need to reschedule your appointment.

Applying via the Spanish consulate in your home country

If you’re still in the Netherlands or Belgium, you can apply at the Spanish consulate instead of travelling to Spain.

• Consulate in Amsterdam

• Consulate in Brussels

Process:

1. Schedule an appointment via the consulate’s website.

2. Bring:

   • the EX-15 form, completed in triplicate

   • Modelo 790, código 012 payment form, completed and paid

   • passport or national ID (original + copy)

   • recent colour passport photo

   • supporting document that explains the reason for your request

The application is sent to Spain (Madrid) for processing and the NIE is emailed to you afterward. Processing time can take up to 6–8 weeks.

Final tips and recommendations

• All documentation must be in Spanish. For translations, certified professionals are often required (traductor jurado).

• Appointments can be difficult to obtain, especially in popular cities. Plan well in advance.

• Always bring both originals and copies of your documents.

• If you’re applying for someone else (e.g., a child or partner), check if additional authorisations are needed.

Need help applying for your NIE?

The process can be complex, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Spanish procedures or need fast results. At EmigrateWise, we connect you with trusted legal professionals and emigration experts who can:

• act as your representative in Spain

• help you prepare and translate required documents

• guide you through appointments and official paperwork

Tip:
Click on the Find Help button at the bottom of this page to get personalised support for your NIE application — whether you’re in Spain or still abroad.