What Is the NIE?
The NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) is a unique number assigned to non-Spaniards living in Spain. It's issued by the Spanish National Police and is required for almost all legal, financial, and administrative activities.
There are two types of NIE:
- Temporary NIE: For short-term stays or specific needs (like buying property).
- Resident NIE: For people planning to live in Spain long-term.
Why You Need a NIE
If you plan to build any part of your life in Spain, you’ll need a NIE for things like:
- Opening a bank account
- Signing a work contract
- Registering with social security
- Renting or buying property
- Enrolling in public healthcare
- Starting a business
- Filing taxes
- Registering your children at school
Basically: No NIE, no real life in Spain.
How to Apply for a NIE in Madrid
The process isn’t hard, but it can definitely be confusing. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Book Your Appointment Online
This is where most people get stuck!
You must book an appointment through the official Spanish government site. It's in Spanish, often buggy, and appointment slots disappear fast.
What you need to select:
- Province: Madrid
- Office: Usually Comisaría General de Extranjería
- Procedure: Asignación de NIE
💡 Tip: Appointments fill up quickly. Refresh the page often, or check during off-hours.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Depending on your situation (student, worker, EU citizen, non-EU citizen), you’ll need slightly different paperwork. Generally, expect:
- Completed EX-15 form
- Valid passport + photocopy
- Justification document (like a job offer, school acceptance letter, or property purchase)
- Tasa 790 Código 012 form, filled out and paid (approx. €9–€12)
- Proof of address (sometimes requested)
- Two recent passport photos
💡 Tip: Fill out the EX-15 in Spanish — and double-check it. Small mistakes can cause big delays!
Step 3: Pay the Fee
Download and fill out the Tasa 790 Código 012 form online.
Print it and pay at a bank (during bank hours — usually mornings).
Step 4: Attend Your Appointment
Bring all documents, copies, and payment receipts.
Be early. Be organized. And be ready to answer basic questions in Spanish.
If everything’s correct, you’ll either get your NIE number the same day or within a few days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Booking the wrong appointment type
- Missing documents
- Incorrect form entries
- Language barriers at the appointment
- Showing up late or at the wrong office
👉 These are exactly the reasons why many expats end up hiring expensive lawyers — when a virtual assistant could help you faster and at a much lower cost.
How I Can Help You Get Your NIE in Madrid
I offer personalized, bilingual assistance to help you skip the stress and focus on starting your life in Spain.
Here’s what I can do for you: ✅ Book your appointment online
✅ Fill out and double-check all forms
✅ Translate and organize your documentation
✅ Guide you step-by-step via Zoom or email
✅ Even accompany you to your appointment (for clients in Madrid)
I've helped dozens of English speakers in Madrid get their NIE fast — with no headaches or guesswork.
Real Talk: Do You Really Need Help?
If you:
- Speak fluent Spanish,
- Have plenty of time to chase appointments,
- And love dealing with government paperwork...
You can probably do it on your own!
But if you'd rather save time, avoid stress, and get it right the first time — I’m here to help.
Book a Free Consultation
If you're moving to Madrid (or already here) and need help getting your NIE, let’s talk.
I offer a free 30-minute Zoom consultation to understand your situation and explain how I can support you.
👉 Book a free call now
Or email me at laylarojas.ch@gmail.com
