How to obtain a NIE

🇪🇸 Do you need to obtain an NIE in Spain?

If you are a foreign national and need to carry out certain economic, professional or administrative procedures in Spain, you may need an NIE (Foreigner Identification Number).

📄 What documents do you need?

To apply for an NIE, you will generally need to provide:

• Form EX-15, completed and signed, usually in duplicate. Download it here.
• A valid passport or national identity card, together with a copy.
• Proof of the reason for your application, such as purchasing a property, setting up a company, starting a professional activity, making an investment, or establishing another economic, professional or social relationship with Spain.
• Form 790, code 012, corresponding to the administrative fee, duly paid.
• If the application is submitted through a representative, documentation proving the representative’s authority to act on your behalf.

🇪🇺 Are you an EU citizen?

Citizens of EU countries such as Germany, France, Italy or the Netherlands can also apply for an NIE even if they are not yet resident in Spain, provided that there is a valid reason for the application.

⚠️ Important: an NIE does not mean residency

Having an NIE does not automatically make you a resident of Spain.

For example, a German citizen buying a property in Málaga may need an NIE to complete the transaction, but this does not mean that they have become a Spanish resident.

If, on the other hand, an EU citizen moves to Spain to live for more than three months, they must complete the relevant registration as an EU citizen residing in Spain.

📍 Are you planning to move to Málaga?

At Expatcenter.info, we can help you understand and manage the procedures you need to settle in Spain.

👉 If you need help obtaining your NIE, fill in our form and our legal services will contact you to discuss your case.

🇪🇸 Expatcenter Spain — Your new life in Spain starts here.