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  • How to Get a NIE Number in Spain (2026 Step-by-Step)

    How to Get a NIE Number in Spain (2026 Step-by-Step)

    How to Get a NIE Number in Spain in 2026

    A step-by-step guide for expats

    If you’re planning to live, work, study or buy property in Spain, one of the first things you’ll need is a
    NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero).

    This unique foreigner identification number is essential for most legal, financial and administrative processes in Spain — from opening a bank account and signing a property deed to paying taxes or enrolling children in school.

    This updated 2026 guide explains what a NIE is, who needs one, how to apply, what documents are required, typical costs, and practical tips to avoid delays.

    What is a NIE number?

    A NIE is a personal identification number issued to non-Spanish nationals for tax and legal purposes. It is used across all interactions with Spanish authorities and institutions.

    Important: The NIE itself is permanent. Once issued, it is valid for life and does not expire — even if your residency status changes.

    Who needs a NIE in Spain?

    • EU / EEA citizens: Must register as residents and obtain a NIE if staying in Spain for more than 90 days.
    • Non-EU citizens (UK, USA, Canada, etc.): Are automatically assigned a NIE as part of their residency (TIE) application.

    Even non-residents often need a NIE to buy property, open a Spanish bank account or pay taxes.

    How to get a NIE number in Spain (step-by-step)

    1. Book your appointment (cita previa)

    NIE applications must be submitted by appointment through Spain’s official government booking system.

    • Visit the official cita previa portal
    • Select your province
    • Choose the correct procedure:
      • “Certificados UE” — for EU citizens
      • “Asignación de NIE / Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero” — for non-EU citizens
    • Enter your personal details and confirm the appointment

    ⏳ Tip: In popular areas such as Málaga, Marbella or Madrid, appointments can take 4–8 weeks. Applying via a Spanish consulate abroad may take longer.

    2. Prepare the required documents

    While requirements can vary slightly by province, you will typically need:

    • Application form
      – EU citizens: Form EX-18
      – Non-EU citizens (NIE-only request): Form EX-15
    • Proof of purpose (why you need a NIE): property purchase, job offer, business activity, study enrolment, etc.
    • Passport: original plus photocopies
    • Passport photos (usually 1–2, colour)
    • Proof of legal entry or visa (non-EU citizens)
    • Form 790 Código 012 — NIE tax payment receipt

    📌 All forms must be completed in Spanish. Only Spanish-language versions are accepted.

    3. Pay the NIE fee

    The NIE fee is paid using Form 790, Código 012.

    In 2026, the fee is typically around €12, though minor adjustments may occur. Payment can be made at most Spanish banks or ATMs after printing the form.

    4. Attend your appointment

    Attend your appointment at the Oficina de Extranjería or Policía Nacional with all original documents and copies.

    Depending on the office, your NIE may be issued immediately or collected within 5–10 working days.

    Helpful tips to avoid delays

    • Bring photocopies of everything — including your passport
    • Check local requirements in advance, as rules can vary slightly by region
    • Arrive early for your appointment
    • Store your NIE safely — you’ll need it frequently

    Frequently asked questions

    Is a NIE number permanent?
    Yes. Once issued, your NIE is valid for life.

    Can I apply for a NIE before moving to Spain?
    Yes. Applications can be made through a Spanish consulate abroad, though processing times are usually longer.

    Do I need a job or property to get a NIE?
    No, but you must provide a legitimate reason for requesting one.

    How much does a NIE cost in 2026?
    Approximately €12, subject to minor annual adjustments.

    Final thoughts

    Obtaining a NIE is one of the most important first steps when moving to Spain. Once you have it, you can legally:

    • Open Spanish bank accounts
    • Buy or rent property
    • Sign employment or business contracts
    • Pay taxes and register for healthcare or education

    If you’re planning to relocate or buy property, understanding the NIE process early will save you time and stress later on.

  • Do I have to pay tax in Spain on the non-lucrative visa?

    Do I have to pay tax in Spain on the non-lucrative visa?

      

    As the name suggests, Spain’s non-lucrative visa or NLV doesn’t allow you to work, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re not liable to pay taxes here.

    The non-lucrative visa or NLV is a one-year residency visa that allows non-EU citizens to come and live in Spain and is extendable for a further two years.

    The main rule of the NLV is that you’re not allowed to work while in Spain, this means no working for companies within Spain, no remote work for companies outside of Spain and no self-employed work either.

    Because of this, it’s a popular choice for those who want to retire in Spain.

    So, if you’re not earning any money in Spain, does this mean you have to pay tax here or not?

    In short, yes, you will have to pay tax in Spain if you’re here on the NLV. 

    In order to be eligible for the NLV you have to have a substantial amount of savings or receive a certain amount of passive income to be able to support yourself here.

    This passive income could be from receiving a pension, rental payments for a property you own abroad, returns on investments or capital gains from the sale of assets.

    So even though you’re not physically working while living in Spain, you are still earning money in some form, even if this is only a small amount of interest on your savings. All of it is taxable. 

    In order to be eligible for the NLV, you need to prove you have 400 times the amount of the IPREM which for 2025 is €2,400 per month in passive income or savings of €28,800 for the year.

    Spanish law states that if you’re resident in Spain you must pay income tax on your worldwide income and capital gains.

    If you’re here on a one-year visa and stay in Spain over the 183-day threshold then you will be subject to paying tax here. If you don’t spend a minimum of 183 days, you won’t be able to renew your NLV.

    This means that even though you are prohibited from working while on this visa, your passive income is still taxable and you will pay tax on your global income.

    Interest on savings or capital gains are taxed at the following rates:

    • 19 percent for the first €6,000 of taxable income
    • 21 percent for the following €6,000 to €50,000
    • 23 percent for the next €50,000 to €200,000 
    • 27 percent €200,000 to €300,000
    • 28 percent for any amounts over €300,000.

    You will also be taxed on pensions and other passive income such as rent from abroad. This will be taxed at a different rate.

    Income tax is charged at the same rate for general income and pensions and is subject to progressive tax rates ranging from 19 up to 47 percent.

    • Up to €12,450: 19 percent
    • €12,451 – €20,200: 24 percent
    • €20,201 – €35,200: 30 percent
    • €35,201 – €60,000: 37 percent
    • €60,001 – €300,000: 45 percent
    • Over €300,000: 47 percent

    If you’re eligible for the NLV and are earning €20,200 to €35,200 for example, you will be taxed at a rate of 30 percent. The exact amount you will pay, however, will depend on your individual circumstances.

    You will be liable to file the annual Declaración de Renta for the previous year. It’s typically due at the end of June and on it, you will declare all your passive income and capital gains.

    You may also be subject to pay wealth tax, as well as inheritance and gift tax, so it’s important that you contact a gestor or tax expert to find out exactly how much you’ll pay.

    If you’re also subject to paying tax in your home country, Spain has double taxation agreements in place with many countries to ensure you don’t pay tax on the same money twice.