How to apply for the NIE if you are a citizen of the EEA

🟩 How to Apply for the NIE in Spain if You Are a Citizen of the EU

If you come from a country in the European Economic Area (EEA) — such as Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, or any other member state — and you wish to live, work, study, or even invest in Spain, one of the first steps you must take is to obtain your Foreign Identity Number (NIE).

Aunque pueda parecer un simple trámite burocrático, el NIE es clave para integrarte en la vida legal y económica del país. A continuación, te explicamos en detalle qué es, por qué es tan importante y cómo puedes conseguirlo de forma sencilla.

Although it may seem like a simple bureaucratic procedure, the NIE is key to integrating into the legal and economic life of the country. Below, we explain in detail what it is, why it is so important, and how you can easily obtain it.

📌 What is the NIE and what is it used for?

El NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) es un código personal, único y exclusivo que te asignan las autoridades españolas cuando necesitas realizar cualquier gestión legal o administrativa en el país. No sustituye al permiso de residencia, pero sí es indispensable para casi todas las actividades legales y económicas que quieras llevar a cabo en España.

The NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) is a personal, unique, and exclusive code assigned to you by the Spanish authorities when you need to carry out any legal or administrative procedure in the country. It does not replace the residence permit, but it is essential for almost all legal and economic activities you want to carry out in Spain.

Why do you need the NIE?

• Work legally in a company or as a self-employed person.
• Sign a lease or purchase contract for a home.
• Open a Spanish bank account.
• Enroll in universities, official courses, or language schools.
• Access public services such as healthcare, education, or registration.
• Pay taxes or declare income if you are going to generate economic activity

In summary, if you are going to be in Spain for more than 90 days and engage in activities beyond tourism, the NIE is essential.

📄 What documents do you need to apply for the NIE?

As a citizen of the EEA, the procedure is more streamlined than for non-EU citizens, but it still requires prior preparation. These are the necessary documents:

1. 🛂 Passport or national identity document from your country (valid and in good condition).
2. 📝 Completed EX-18 form (available online).
3. 📃 Proof that justifies the reason for your application, such as:
   1. Employment contract or a signed job offer.
   2. Enrollment in a recognized educational institution.
   3. Proof of sufficient funds if you are not going to work or study.
4. 💳 Proof of payment of the administrative fee (form 790, code 012).

It is important to bring both the originals and copies of all documents.

🧾 Step by step to apply for the NIE as a citizen of the EEA

Here we explain how to complete the process in an organized and stress-free manner:

1. Fill out form EX-18

This is the official form for community citizens. You can download it from the National Police’s Electronic Headquarters. Fill it out with your personal information and the reason why you need the NIE.

📝 Tip: If you have doubts when filling out the form, you can consult a specialized manager or use advisory services for foreigners.

2. Pay the administrative fee (form 790 – code 012)

Access the fee through this link: [https://sede.policia.gob.es/Tasa790_012/.]

Fill out the online form, print the receipt and pay at any participating bank. The fee costs around 12 euros.

3. Make an appointment online

Go to the website https://sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es/icpplus/, choose your province and select the procedure ‘EU Certificates‘.

Select a date and time available to go to the police station or the corresponding Immigration Office.

⚠️ In large cities like Madrid or Barcelona, appointments can be in high demand. Check daily and in advance.

4. Attend the appointment with all the documents

Present your complete documentation. In some cases, they give you the NIE the same day, and in others, you will have to return in a few days to pick it up.

✅ Additional tips

• 📑 Always keep backup copies of your documents, even if they are not requested. Some officials require them to keep them.
• 👥 If you do not speak Spanish well, it is advisable to go with someone who can help you communicate.
• ⏳ Complete the procedure as soon as possible, especially if you need the NIE to start working or studying.

❓ What if you are only going to be here for a few months?

If your stay will be less than three months and you do not need to carry out any economic or work procedures, you may not need the NIE. But if your intention is to stay longer, it is always advisable to process it as soon as possible, as it will open many doors for you.

✔️ With your NIE you will be able to start building your life in Spain without complications.

Whether it’s to start a new job, begin your studies, or simply settle in a new city, the NIE is the starting point for legal and secure integration in Spain.

Do you feel lost with the process? Many foreigners rely on specialized advisory services to manage their NIE without stress or mistakes. You can do it too!