Remember that this document is only for EU residents. If you do not reside in the EU, you must apply for your TIE.

To obtain the NIE ("Número de Identidad de Extranjero"), you must follow these steps:

STEP 1: Request an appointment online

• Click here.
• In "Selected Province", select "Madrid"
• In the next drop-down menu, select "Policía-Certificados UE"
• Click "OK" (it will take you to the next page)
• On the next page, download and complete the EX-18 form
• Scroll down the page and click "Entrar" (it will take you to the next page)
• Fill in the required information (passport number and full name) and click "Aceptar"
• Request your appointment ("Solicitar cita") and follow the instructions. You can request your appointment in the office that you prefer

STEP 2: Download and complete the application form

Before going to your appointment, you must pay the tax rate 012 (model 790) of 12 euros. Open the document here.

• Fill in the form with your personal data. Click on "Certificado de registro de residente comunitario o Tarjeta de residencia de familiar de un ciudadano de la Unión"
• Select pay in cash ("en efectivo") as the payment option and leave the IBAN details blank
• Finally click on “enviar”. A PDF will be automatically generated that you must print
• Before your appointment, go to the nearest bank (Banco Santander, BBVA, Bankia, Sabadell, Bankinter...) with the printed pages and pay the fee in cash

STEP 3: Verify and prepare the documents for your appointment

• Proof of appointment request and completed application form
• Passport (original and copy)
• Receipt / proof of tax payment made at the bank (receipt of payment to the bank or copy of the form stamped by the bank)
• European health card or your private health insurance (original and copy)
• Document that certifies the reason for your stay in Spain: for example, acceptance letter from your university, employment contract (internship/internship), etc.

STEP 4: Go to the designated office with all your documents on the date of your appointment.

Tip: Obtaining the NIE in your home country is often much easier than doing it when you are already in Spain. However, it is necessary to do it well in advance, at least one or two months before coming. You just have to contact the nearest Spanish embassy and they will tell you what documents you should send them. Once the application is processed, you will receive your NIE in a few days.

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FAQs

1. How can I check my NIE application status? Here. 
2. Do I need registration to obtain my NIE? Nope.
3. I have to travel and my NIE has expired. What should I do? If you have to leave Spain and your card is in the process of being renewed, you can request a “Autorización de Regreso” (return permit), which will allow you to return to the country even if your card has already expired.
4. Does the appointment have to be at the office closest to my residence? No, any office will do.
5. Do I need my physical NIE card or is a copy or number enough? Yes, you need your physical NIE card at all times to properly identify yourself with the Spanish authorities.
6. Can I apply for my NIE in August? Yes.
7. What happens if there are no appointments available? Keep trying until you find a gap or try a different office.
8. Is there any other way to get an appointment, such as going to a police station? No, you need an appointment.

 

If you have any questions during your studies in Spain, do not hesitate to send us an email to [email protected] and download our app to learn about all our services.