How to Get an NIE in Spain: 6 Different Routes We Learned

If you're planning to move to Spain, you've probably come across the NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) – the foreigner identification number that's essential for doing just about anything official here. Think of it as your golden ticket to Spanish paperwork. You’ll need it to buy a house, open a bank account, sign up for utilities, get a job, or even purchase a car.

When we started our move, we found there were a few different ways to get it – and honestly, it was a bit confusing at first. So here’s a breakdown of the six main ways you can apply for your NIE, including the method we used and why.

1. Book an Appointment Through the Police Station (If You’re Already in Spain)

This is probably the most straightforward and affordable option if you’re already in the country.

You can book an appointment at your local police station or foreigners' office (Oficina de Extranjería) and apply in person. You’ll need to complete a couple of forms (EX-15 and Modelo 790), pay a small fee at a bank, and bring your passport and a document showing your reason for needing the NIE – such as a job offer, rental contract, or home purchase agreement.

Pros: Cheapest option

Cons: Appointments can be hard to get in popular cities, and the process is in Spanish

Tip: Try checking appointments in nearby towns if you’re struggling to find a slot where you live.

2. Wait for Your Visa to Be Processed (If Applying Through an Agency)

If you’re applying for a visa – such as the Digital Nomad Visa or Non-Lucrative Visa – through an agency, your NIE will often be issued automatically as part of the application process. Once your visa is approved, your NIE will appear on your residency card (TIE).

Pros: Part of the process, no need to apply separately

Cons: You’ll need to wait until your visa is approved before receiving your NIE

This is a great option if you’re already working with an agency and don’t need the NIE urgently.

3. Apply Online Through a Service (The Route We Took)

We were in a bit of a rush – trying to buy a house and a car from Australia – so we needed our NIEs quickly and didn’t want to wait for our visa approval.

We used e-Residence, which allowed us to apply entirely online from abroad. It was much more expensive than the other options, but also the fastest. We submitted the documents online and received our NIEs within a couple of weeks.

Pros: Fastest method, convenient to do online

Cons: Higher cost

We wouldn’t recommend this for everyone, but if you’re short on time or need to get things moving from outside Spain, it can be a lifesaver.

4. Ask Your Lawyer to Handle It

If you’re working with a lawyer in Spain, they can usually take care of the NIE application for you. This is a common route if you’re buying property or handling legal matters and already have legal support.

Your lawyer can book the appointment, prepare the documents, and even attend on your behalf with a power of attorney if you're not yet in the country.

Pros: Professional support, no stress

Cons: May come with additional fees

If you’re already paying for legal services, it’s worth asking whether they can include this as part of the package.

5. Apply Through a Spanish Consulate Abroad

If you're not yet in Spain, you can apply for an NIE at a Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country. This process involves scheduling an appointment and providing the necessary documentation, such as your passport and a justification for the NIE request (e.g., property purchase agreement, job offer). Processing times can vary, often taking several weeks.​

Pros: Allows you to obtain an NIE before arriving in Spain

Cons: Processing times may be longer, and procedures can vary between consulates.

6. Authorise a Representative to Apply on Your Behalf

You can appoint a legal representative, such as a lawyer or a trusted individual, to apply for your NIE in Spain. This requires granting them a notarised power of attorney (poder notarial). The representative can then handle the application process, including attending appointments and submitting necessary documents.​

Pros: Convenient if you're unable to be in Spain

Cons: Involves additional legal steps and potential fees for the representative's services

finally...

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to getting an NIE in Spain. The best option for you will depend on how quickly you need it, your location, and whether you’re working with any professionals.

For us, speed was the priority, so we went with the online route – but if you’re already in Spain or happy to wait, one of the other options might suit you better.

If you’ve gone through the process yourself or have any questions, feel free to drop a comment or message us. We’re always happy to help.

Adios,

Jas & Andrew