NIE number

If you are planning moving to Spain or buying Spanish properties, for example, first of all, you have to get the Spanish Identification number, NIE (número de identificación de extranjero).

A NIE number should be obtained as soon as possible from the nearest Local Police Department(Comisaría de Policía). If you are thinking to buy a property in Ebro Delta Region, you should go to Tortosa Police Station, however if you are interested to buy a property in Castellón region, you would go to Castellón Police Station.

Download your NIE form here and how can fill form here.

How to get NIE
Applying in person for an NIE whilst in Spain is a relatively straightforward procedure. The only inconvenience is that you may have to wait for up to several hours in a queue in order to submit your application. It does of course depend upon the office where you apply and the time of day (early is better). With a bit of luck you will be in and out in half an hour or less.

Prepare the necessary documentation:

• Your passport and a photocopy of the main page of your passport (the page that includes your photo, name, passport number, address, etc.)


• The appropriate application form filled out and signed plus a photocopy. The Spanish name for this application form is Solicitud de NIE.(Ex-14) and you can download this form plus instructions on how to fill it in by clicking on the links below. This will open up a new browser window and display the form in 'pdf' format. Some people report problems viewing these documents when they click the links below. In which case use the right-hand click button on your mouse and choose the option 'save as'. This will enable you to download the documents to your computer and open them there.

Collect NIE after 30 days
After you have submitted your NIE application you will be given an official receipt (resguardo). Unless you are told otherwise you will be able to collect your NIE from the office where you made your application anytime from 15 days later. You do not have to collect your NIE in person - anyone can collect it for you if they have the official receipt you were given when you submitted your application.