NIE means Número de Identidad de Extranjero. It’s your Spanish foreigner ID number. People sometimes call it a NIF because NIF is Spain’s generic tax ID. For Spanish citizens the NIF sits on the DNI, their national ID card. For foreigners, the NIE is the number that also works as your NIF for tax and official paperwork. It’s not a residence permit. It’s a permanent number.
DNI in context
DNI means Documento Nacional de Identidad. Spaniards use it as everyday ID and for tax. Foreigners don’t get a DNI. Your residence documents show your NIE instead: a TIE card if you’re non-EU, or the EU citizen registration certificate if you’re EU, EEA or Swiss.
Who actually needs an NIE
- Buying or selling a property or a car
- Signing a long rental or setting up utilities
- Starting a job or registering as self-employed
- Opening certain bank accounts
- Filing taxes or signing at a notary
It’s becoming increasingly common to need a NIE for almost everything now. Buying a washing machine etc will require a NIE. Just get it done.
Where you’ll see it used
On your TIE or EU registration paper, and on tax returns, bank, employment, vehicle and utility forms.
NIE vs your residence documents
The NIE is the number.
The TIE (non-EU card) or EU registration paper shows that number.
If you already have either document, you already have an NIE. Don’t apply again.
How to get one
In Spain:
Book an appointment with Policía Nacional or the foreigners’ office. The procedure is usually called Asignación de NIE or Certificates and NIE assignment.
From abroad:
Apply at a Spanish consulate before you travel. Handy if you need the number for a purchase or a job start date.
What to take
- Passport plus a copy
- Application form (EX-15 is the common one)
- A short reason: purchase, job, long rental, company setup or study
- Proof if you have it: reservation, draft contract, employer letter
- Paid fee receipt
- Address details. If you already live here, a padrón certificate may be requested
Tip: names must match your passport exactly. Bring originals and one set of copies.
What you get back
A white A4 certificate with your NIE (starts with X or Y). Some offices print it on the day; others ask you to collect. Scan it and keep a recent printout.
Timings
Appointment availability swings by province and season. The visit is quick if your form and fee are right. Consulates follow their own timelines.
Children
Only needed if they’re on a deed, bank account or vehicle. Schools and healthcare use other IDs with your residence paperwork.
Avoid these mistakes
- No clear reason. Bring a simple note or document that explains why you need the number.
- Wrong or unpaid fee. Pay it before the appointment and keep the receipt.
- Name mismatch across passport, tenancy and forms. Fix it first.
- Applying again when your TIE or EU paper already shows your NIE.
- Thinking the NIE grants residence or work rights. It doesn’t.
When a gestor helps
A gestor administrativo is a licensed admin professional who files things with Spanish authorities. If you’re short on time, they can prepare forms, book the slot, pay the fee and collect the certificate under a limited power of attorney. Common for property deals and company setups.
Quick checklist
- Pick your reason
- Complete EX-15 and the fee form
- Copy your passport and any supporting docs
- Attend with originals, copies and fee receipt
- Leave with the certificate or a pickup slip
- Scan and file it with your essentials
Fast FAQ
Does it expire?
The number doesn’t. Some offices like a recent printout.
Can I have more than one?
No. One number for life. If you lose the paper, ask for a reprint.
Do I need it for a bank account?
Often yes for full resident accounts. Some banks open non-resident accounts with a passport, but many still ask for an NIE.
Do I need it to buy a property?
Yes. You need it by completion day, or your representative needs it to complete for you. Apply as soon as you reserve.
