NIE by e-residence
NIE Number Spain · The Complete Guide

Your Spanish NIE.
Explained fully. Delivered fast.

Everything about the Número de Identidad de Extranjero — every route, real costs, timelines and traps. And when you're ready: we file it for you in 5–10 working daysd.

Since 2013 · 17,000+ clients · 4.9★ Trustpilot

17,000+applications handled
2013serving clients since
5 dayslegal police deadline
5–10 daysour typical delivery

What is a NIE

One number that unlocks Spain

The NIE is the identification number Spain assigns to every foreigner with economic affairs in the country. Bank accounts, property deeds, work contracts, companies, taxes — none work without it. Issued once, valid for life, never changes.

X 1234567 L X/Y/Z letter 7 digits check letter Format: letter + 7 digits + letter X = pre-2008 · Y = 2008+ · Z = reserved

Have a number already? Check it instantly with our free NIE validator — or find it on your documents: where the NIE is printed.

Three ways to apply

In person, at a consulate — or handled for you

Every route ends with the same lifetime number issued by the Policía Nacional. The difference is who does the work and how long it takes.

1 Do it yourself

In person in Spain

You file form EX-15 at a police station with a cita previa appointment. Works if you're already in Spain and comfortable with Spanish paperwork.

In-person guide →
2 From your country

Spanish consulate

You apply through the Spanish consulate where you live. Slower, and documents often need an apostille and sworn translation.

Country guides →
3 Handled for you

Representative (POA)

You sign a power of attorney at a notary near you — we prepare, file and collect in Spain, and email you the certificate. No appointments, no travel.

How it works →

How we work

From form to certificate in 4 steps

Fill the 2-minute form

Passport details and your reason for the NIE. We reply within one working day with your POA pack.

Sign at a local notary

A limited, revocable POA — ~15 minutes. We flag apostille requirements for your country.

We file in Spain

EX-15 prepared, €9.84 paid on Modelo 790-012, filed at the police registry. No cita needed.

Certificate by email

Scan in your inbox in 5–10 working days. Originals kept safe, forwarded on request.

Handled by people who file
NIE applications every week.

Tax & accounting services for foreigners in Spain — NIE applications, tax representation, and the paperwork around them. Since 2013.

17,000+applications handled
4.9★Trustpilot rating
13 yrsserving clients

The NIE library

Everything else about the NIE

The deepest NIE library on the web — written and verified by the team that files these applications daily.

NIE number hub

Format, example, who needs one, NIE vs NIF vs TIE vs DNI.

Application routes

In-person, consulate, POA — plus the EX-15 form line by line.

NIE validator

Free tool: check any number's format and control letter instantly.

NIE card

White vs green certificate, TIE card, "digital NIE" and the temporary-NIE myth.

What your NIE unlocks

Bank accounts, property, work, taxes, students, tourists.

Apply from your country

Consulate guides for the UK, USA, Ireland, Germany, France and more.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is a NIE number in Spain?

A NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is the personal ID number Spain assigns to foreigners with economic ties to the country — format X/Y/Z + 7 digits + letter. Issued once, valid for life. Required for banks, property, work contracts, companies and taxes.

How much does it cost to get a NIE?

The government fee is €9.84 for everyone. Handled services charge their own flat fees on top — ours is quoted up front and carries transparent terms.

How long does it take?

Legal deadline 5 working days after filing. Reality: 1–4 weeks DIY, 4–12 weeks via consulate, 5–10 working days via our POA route.

Can I get a NIE without living in Spain?

Yes — in person, consulate, or POA representative. The NIE requires no residency and grants none.

Is the NIE the same as a National Insurance number?

No. Spain's social-security number is the NUSS. The NIE is the general foreigner ID used for taxes and administration.

Does a NIE expire?

No — the number is permanent. Only documents carrying it (TIE card, permit, visa) expire.

Ready to get your NIE?

5–10 working days · handled since 2013.

Start your application →

Sources & data: Sede Electrónica Policía Nacional — NIE assignment · Ministry of Foreign Affairs — NIE We are not a government body. We are a tax & accounting service assisting with NIE applications and Spanish paperwork. Facts verified 24 September 2026.

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