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Foreigner Identity Number (NIE)
Online verifiedNIE — Número de Identidad de Extranjero
Who needs it
Every non-EU foreigner who needs to perform any administrative, financial, or legal activity in Spain.
When needed
Before buying property, opening a bank account, signing at a notary, or starting a company.
Where to get it
National Police station (ComisarÃa, Brigada de ExtranjerÃa) in your area.
Timeline
20–30 minutes at the counter. NIE issued the same day or within a few days depending on the office.
Faster with Key4SpainCita previa
Yes, mandatory. Book at sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es or locally.
What to bring
- •Passport (original + copy of all pages)
- •Filled EX-15 form
- •Proof of reason for NIE (invitation, contract, notary letter)
- •Modelo 790 Código 012 fee, paid in advance at the bank
Common mistakes
- âš Going without an appointment
- âš Not paying the fee in advance
- âš Forgetting originals
- âš Not having a concrete reason for NIE
What to say at the counter
I need to apply for a NIE because I am a foreigner and I need it for an economic procedure in Spain. (Buenos dÃas. Tengo cita previa para solicitar el NIE. Aquà están mis documentos.)
Key4Spain service
Handling this via Key4Spain ensures 0% margin for error.