What it is
NIE = Número de Identidad de Extranjero. It's a tax ID for foreigners. You need it to do almost anything official in Spain: buy property, sign utility contracts, open a bank account, accept a salary, file taxes.
Two types
- NIE for non-residents: a number on a white A4 sheet. Permanent, doesn't expire.
- TIE card (foreigners' identity card): the physical residency card. Only for residents.
How to get a NIE
- At a Spanish consulate before you travel: 4–8 week wait, free, requires home-country address.
- In Spain at a Policía Nacional foreigner's office: requires an appointment (cita previa), which is the bottleneck. Use a gestor to get one.
- Via a lawyer with power of attorney: €150–€300, fastest if you're not in Spain.
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- Passport + copy
- Form EX-15 completed
- Tax form 790 stamped (€10–€12 fee)
- Justification of purpose (purchase reservation contract, employment offer, etc.)
How long it takes
Same-day issuance in most provinces in 2026 if you have the cita previa.
The biggest mistake
Trying to buy property without one. The notary will not sign the deed. Start the NIE process the day you make an offer.
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