NIE Number Assistance for Americans & Britons
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is the foreigner ID number Spain requires before you can buy property, open a bank account, sign a lease, or start almost any formal process. Here's how Americans and Britons obtain one, from consular applications to in-person appointments.
We prepare and check your EX-15 form and supporting documents, book your appointment, and submit your NIE application as your authorized representative, in person or by power of attorney if you're applying remotely.
What the NIE is and who needs it
The NIE is a unique, permanent identification number assigned to foreigners who have economic, professional, or social interests in Spain. It is not a residence permit or visa by itself — it is simply an ID number used by Spanish authorities, banks, notaries, and utility companies to track your dealings in the country. You'll need it to buy a car or property, register a business, get a Spanish mobile contract, open a bank account, pay taxes, or apply for most visas and residence permits.
Both US and UK citizens are treated as non-EU nationals for NIE purposes, meaning the standard "extranjero" application track applies rather than any EU citizen fast-track.
Eligibility and application routes
There are three common routes for US and UK applicants:
1. Consular NIE (before arrival)
Both Americans and Britons can apply for an NIE at a Spanish consulate in their home country. This is common among property buyers, remote workers finalizing a digital nomad visa, and anyone who wants the number in hand before moving. Processing and appointment availability vary widely by consulate.
2. In-person application in Spain
Once in Spain on a valid visa or as a visitor, you can apply at a Comisaría de Policía (immigration office) or, in some provinces, at designated Oficinas de Extranjeros. This requires an appointment (cita previa), which can be one of the most time-consuming parts of the process in high-demand cities.
3. By proxy (power of attorney)
If you cannot attend in person, a representative can apply on your behalf with a notarized and apostilled power of attorney. This is a common option for US and UK clients managing a purchase or visa application remotely.
Required documents
- Valid US or UK passport (original plus copy)
- Completed EX-15 application form
- A brief written statement of the economic, professional, or social reason for the request
- Proof of payment of the Modelo 790 código 012 fee
- Passport-size photo (for some offices/consulates)
- Supporting documents relevant to your reason (e.g., property reservation contract, employment offer, visa approval)
Documents originally issued in the US or UK that need to support the application — such as certain corporate or property documents — generally need an apostille and, where required, a certified Spanish translation.
Timeline & fees
| Item | Typical cost/time | Paid to |
|---|---|---|
| Modelo 790 código 012 fee | Approximately €12–€16 (varies by procedure) | Spanish Treasury (official government fee) |
| Appointment wait (in Spain) | From a few days up to several weeks, depending on the province | — |
| Consular NIE processing | Varies by consulate; often several weeks | — |
| Spain Relocation service fee | Quoted per case after a free consultation | Spain Relocation (our consulting fee, separate from government charges) |
The government fee is paid directly to the Spanish Treasury and is entirely separate from any fee you pay Spain Relocation for consulting, document preparation, appointment booking, or representation.
What we help with
We help you determine which NIE route fits your timeline, prepare and check your EX-15 form and supporting documents, book and, where useful, accompany you to your appointment, or act as your authorized representative under a power of attorney if you're applying remotely. This complements related steps such as Digital Nomad Visa applications, Autónomo Registration, and general guidance from our team on how the whole relocation process fits together.
FAQ
USCan I apply for NIE from the US before arriving in Spain?
Yes. US citizens can apply for an NIE at a Spanish consulate in the United States. This is a popular route for property buyers and those finalizing a visa application before their move, since it removes one step from the to-do list once you land in Spain.
UKDo I need an NIE as a UK citizen buying property in Spain post-Brexit?
Yes, and this hasn't changed post-Brexit — every foreign property buyer in Spain, EU or non-EU, needs an NIE to complete a purchase, sign at the notary, and pay the associated taxes. British buyers now apply through the same non-EU process as Americans.
Is the NIE the same as a residence permit?
No. The NIE is only an identification number for administrative and tax purposes. It does not grant you the right to live or work in Spain — that comes from a visa or residence authorization, such as those covered on our Residence & Visas pages.
How long does an NIE stay valid?
The number itself never expires or changes. The physical white NIE certificate (the paper you're issued) has no expiry date either, though some institutions prefer to see a recently issued copy.
What's the difference between NIE and NIF?
The NIE is issued by the police as your foreigner ID number. Once you register with the Spanish tax agency, that same number functions as your NIF (tax ID). See our dedicated NIF Number page for details.
Can someone apply for my NIE on my behalf?
Yes, with a notarized and apostilled power of attorney, a representative can submit the application for you. This is common for clients who cannot travel to Spain before their purchase or visa deadline.
This page provides general information and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Requirements can vary by province and consulate and change over time — we recommend a personal consultation to confirm what applies to your specific situation.
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