NIE Number Assistance for Americans & Britons

What the NIE is and who needs it

The NIE is a unique, permanent identification number assigned to foreigners who have economic, professional, or social interests in Spain. It is not a residence permit or visa by itself — it is simply an ID number used by Spanish authorities, banks, notaries, and utility companies to track your dealings in the country. You'll need it to buy a car or property, register a business, get a Spanish mobile contract, open a bank account, pay taxes, or apply for most visas and residence permits.

Both US and UK citizens are treated as non-EU nationals for NIE purposes, meaning the standard "extranjero" application track applies rather than any EU citizen fast-track.

Applying before you land? See our guide: How to Get Your NIE Before You Arrive in Spain (Consular Route). Confused about NIE vs NIF? See NIE vs NIF: What's the Difference.

Eligibility and application routes

There are three common routes for US and UK applicants:

1. Consular NIE (before arrival)

Both Americans and Britons can apply for an NIE at a Spanish consulate in their home country. This is common among property buyers, remote workers finalizing a digital nomad visa, and anyone who wants the number in hand before moving. Processing and appointment availability vary widely by consulate.

2. In-person application in Spain

Once in Spain on a valid visa or as a visitor, you can apply at a Comisaría de Policía (immigration office) or, in some provinces, at designated Oficinas de Extranjeros. This requires an appointment (cita previa), which can be one of the most time-consuming parts of the process in high-demand cities.

3. By proxy (power of attorney)

If you cannot attend in person, a representative can apply on your behalf with a notarized and apostilled power of attorney. This is a common option for US and UK clients managing a purchase or visa application remotely.

Required documents

• Valid US or UK passport (original plus copy)
• Completed EX-15 application form
• A brief written statement of the economic, professional, or social reason for the request
• Proof of payment of the Modelo 790 código 012 fee
• Passport-size photo (for some offices/consulates)
• Supporting documents relevant to your reason (e.g., property reservation contract, employment offer, visa approval)

Documents originally issued in the US or UK that need to support the application — such as certain corporate or property documents — generally need an apostille and, where required, a certified Spanish translation.

Timeline & fees

The government fee is paid directly to the Spanish Treasury and is entirely separate from any fee you pay Spain Relocation for consulting, document preparation, appointment booking, or representation.

What we help with

We help you determine which NIE route fits your timeline, prepare and check your EX-15 form and supporting documents, book and, where useful, accompany you to your appointment, or act as your authorized representative under a power of attorney if you're applying remotely. This complements related steps such as Digital Nomad Visa applications, Autónomo Registration, and general guidance from our team on how the whole relocation process fits together.