EX-15 · Foreigner Identity Number (NIE)

How to get your NIE in Spain, prepared and checked

We prepare your EX-15 and fee form, check your documents and tell you exactly what to bring. You just attend the appointment, or sign a power of attorney so that a person you choose files it.

Reviewed: 24/10/2026Official sources below
5 daysmaximum time to decide, counted from filing[1]
€9.84official fee 790-012[2]
EX-15official form[3]

Who needs a NIE?

This is for you if…

  • You need an NIE for economic, professional or social reasons: buying property, an inheritance, signing a contract, registering as self-employed…[4]
  • You are an EU citizen but will not live in Spain for more than 3 months.
  • You are legally in Spain, or you will apply through a Spanish consulate abroad.[1]

This is not for you if…

  • You are an EU citizen moving to Spain for more than 3 months: you need the EU registration certificate (EX-18).
  • You hold a visa or residence authorization: your NIE comes with your TIE card.
  • You are in Spain irregularly: an NIE is not assigned in that situation.[1]

Official document checklist

Checklist from official sources. Before your appointment we check it against the official requirements for your province.

  • EX-15 application form, two copies, signed.[1][3]
  • Proof of payment of fee 790 code 012.[1]
  • Valid passport, national ID card, travel document or registration card: original and copy.[4]
  • A statement of the economic, professional or social reasons for requesting the NIE.[4]
  • If filed by a representative: a power of attorney expressly covering the NIE.[4]

NIE appointment: where and how to apply

In Spain: at the Immigration Office or Police station, in person or through a representative.[4] Appointments are booked on the official portal.[5] From abroad: at your Spanish consulate. For example, the Consulate General in Mexico issues consular NIEs as a PDF certificate; its own page gives different average times, so check the time with your consulate. The consular fee is paid at the consulate and need not match the €9.84.[6]

Appointments are personal and free. We never sell appointments. We explain how to book the appointment yourself, free of charge, on the official appointment portal. We do not book or hold it for you.

What we do

  • We confirm the NIE is the right procedure for you.
  • We fill in the EX-15 and the 790-012 fee form.
  • We draft your statement of reasons and check every document.
  • We explain how to book the appointment yourself, free of charge, on the official portal. We do not book or hold it for you. We never sell appointments.
  • If you prefer not to attend, you sign a power of attorney so that a person you choose files it; Hola Papeles does not file it for you. Notary fees are separate.

What you do (in person)

  1. Pay the €9.84 fee at a bank or online using the form we prepare.
  2. Attend the appointment with your originals, or sign the power of attorney before a notary.
  3. Collect your NIE as instructed by the office.

Timelines: NIE

The authority must decide within 5 days of filing; no answer within that period means refusal.[1] Waiting time for an appointment varies by province.

FAQ

Does an NIE let me live or work in Spain?
No. It is an identification number only.[4]
Can someone apply for me?
Yes, a representative with a power of attorney expressly covering the NIE.[4] The notarial power of attorney has a separate cost.
What if it is refused?
You can file an optional appeal for reconsideration (recurso de reposición) within one month or a judicial review within two months.[1] We do not handle appeals: consult an independent lawyer or the Legal Guidance Service (SOJ) of your local Bar Association.[7]
Can you get me an appointment?
No. We explain how to book the appointment yourself, free of charge, on the official portal. We do not book or hold it for you. We never sell appointments.
How much is the NIE fee?
The 790 code 012 fee for NIE assignment is €9.84 (Order PJC/617/2025).[2] It is paid separately from our fee.
How long does the NIE take?
The maximum decision period is five days from registration of the application; with no answer in that time it is deemed refused.[1]
Can I apply for a NIE from outside Spain?
Yes, through the Spanish consular office for your area.[4]

Complex case? Check if you need a lawyer →

You may also need: How to book your NIE appointment for free · How to fill in and pay the 790-012 fee · NIE to buy a property · Do you need a NIE or a TIE?

Related guides

€149 + fee €9.84
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