Foreigner’s Identification Number

All foreign citizens who come to reside in Spain must request to be assigned a NIE.

This is the number with which the Spanish authorities will identify you. It consists of 9 digits, of which the first and last are letters. This number is necessary for numerous procedures and is requested at the national police or consular office of the country of origin, depending on the specific case of the interested party.

It should not be confused with the TIE or Foreignerer’s Identification Card, a card that has the holder’s NIE printed on it.

In addition to those who intend to reside in Spain, those who wish to buy a home in Spain or carry out other types of economic transactions must also apply for a NIE.