How to get an NIE number in Spain
The NIE is the identification number Spain assigns to a foreign national with an economic, professional or social connection to the country. Here is what it costs, which form to use and where to apply.
The official fee for assigning an NIE at the applicant's request is €9.84. You normally apply with form EX-15 and pay the fee using Modelo 790, code 012.
What an NIE is
NIE stands for Número de Identidad de Extranjero. Spanish authorities give this personal, unique number to foreign nationals whose dealings with Spain require identification. A property purchase is an economic reason for requesting one.
The number identifies you in Spanish administrative and financial procedures. An NIE does not by itself give you permission to live or work in Spain, and the document showing the number is not proof of residence.
- The number is personal and unique.
- Each buyer needs their own NIE.
- You must state why you need it on the application.
Fee and documents
The fee category is “Asignación de Número de Identidad de Extranjero (NIE) a instancia del interesado”. The amount set by Orden PJC/617/2025 is €9.84. Generate Modelo 790, code 012, through the Spanish National Police website and follow its payment instructions.
| Item | What to use | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Form EX-15 | Complete and sign the official form |
| Administrative fee | Modelo 790, code 012 | €9.84 per assignment request |
| Identification | Valid passport or identity document | Bring the original and the copies requested by the office |
Also take evidence of the economic, professional or social reason for the request. For a planned home purchase, ask the office or consulate which supporting document it will accept for your circumstances. If someone applies for you in Spain, the official procedure requires proof of that person's authority to represent you.
Estimate the cash needed for your purchase
Add the NIE fee to a line-by-line estimate of taxes and buying costs.
How to apply
You can apply in Spain or, when you are outside Spain, through the Spanish consular office for the district where you live. The consulate forwards the request to the Spanish authorities, so check its own appointment and document instructions before attending.
- Complete form EX-15
Enter your personal details and explain the economic, professional or social reason for requesting the number. Sign the form.
- Prepare your identification and evidence
Take your valid passport or identity document, the copies required by the office and evidence supporting the reason stated on the form.
- Pay the official fee and submit the application
Use Modelo 790, code 012. In Spain, follow the appointment route given by the National Police for the province where you apply. Outside Spain, follow the instructions of the Spanish consulate serving your place of residence.
This guide explains the national procedure, not the appointment rules of a particular office. Required copies, appointment availability and collection arrangements can differ by location. Check the police or consulate instructions before travelling. This is general information, not legal advice.
Common questions
Can I buy a property in Spain without an NIE?
The NIE is used to identify a foreign buyer in the tax, notarial and registration steps connected with a Spanish property purchase. Arrange it early enough for the professionals handling your transaction to use it when required.
Can I apply for an NIE from the UK?
Yes. Spain's official procedure allows an application outside Spain through the Spanish consular office for the district where you live. Check that consulate's website for its appointment method and document requirements.
Is an NIE the same as Spanish residency?
No. The NIE is an identification number. It does not by itself grant residence rights or prove that you are resident in Spain.
Continue planning your purchase
Buying-cost calculator
Estimate taxes, fees and the cash needed for a home in Spain.
Open calculatorHow introductions work
Read what happens if you ask for an introduction through pinspain.
Read the processOfficial NIE procedure
Check the National Police instructions and download the current forms.
Visit the official site