This guide covers the Spanish Police procedure to request assignment of a NIE for stated economic, professional, or social interests. A NIE is an identification number; it is not a visa, residence permit, or work authorization.
Your checklist
First steps
Your checklist stays on this device.
When this guide may help
The official Police page describes assignment of a NIE to foreign nationals who have economic, professional, or social interests in Spain. It is a focused assignment procedure rather than a complete guide to every way a person may receive or use a NIE.
A NIE is not immigration permission
Do not treat the number as proof that you may live or work in Spain. Residence and work rights depend on separate rules and permissions. If your question is about immigration status, start with the official EU Immigration Portal and the Spanish authority responsible for your route.
Verify the current form and fee
Forms, fees, appointments, and submission arrangements can change. Check the current EX-15 and 790 code 012 instructions on the Police page before you submit anything.
Prepare a request the authority can verify
The Police procedure describes requests for people with economic, professional, or social interests in Spain and says the reason must be stated. It lists form EX-15 and proof of payment for fee model 790, code 012. Check the live Police page for the current fee, supporting documents, and appointment instructions before submitting.
If you apply while outside Spain, the Police lists Spanish consular offices as the route. Keep a copy of the form, fee receipt, and documents that explain your reason. A NIE is an identifier; a separate procedure governs residence and work rights.
Allow for the full process
The Police page sets a maximum five-day period to decide after the application enters the competent authority’s register. This is not a promise about appointment availability or the total time from first contact to receiving the result.
Common questions
Does a NIE let me live or work in Spain?
No. A NIE is an identification number. It is not a visa, residence permit, or work authorization.
Can I apply from outside Spain?
The available submission route depends on your case. Check the Police instructions and the relevant Spanish consulate before preparing the application.
Do I need to explain why I am requesting a NIE?
Yes. The Police procedure says to state the economic, professional, or social reason for the request. Check the current eligibility and evidence list on the official page before booking or paying a fee.
Which forms should I check before applying?
The Police page lists application form EX-15 and fee model 790, code 012. Forms, fees, and supporting documents can change, so use the current official instructions rather than an old copy.
How long does the Spanish NIE assignment decision take?
The current Police page gives a maximum of five days from the application’s entry in the competent office’s register. Appointment waits and other end-to-end steps are not included in that decision clock.
Official sources
Read this first
- Spanish National Police: NIE assignment procedureOfficial procedure for assignment of a NIE
- EU Immigration PortalOfficial EU starting point for non-EU immigration routes
Rules can vary by nationality, work or study status, and city. Confirm your route with the official authority before you act.