To obtain an NIE in Torrevieja, you must choose the procedure that applies to your circumstances, prepare the documentation and submit your application to the competent office with the fee paid.
If you need to identify yourself for an economic transaction, there is a specific procedure for assigning a number.
If you intend to live in Spain, your nationality and circumstances determine the procedure.
Choosing correctly avoids an unnecessary EX15 application when your residence procedure already includes the assignment of an NIE.
Which procedure and documents you need
What is the difference between an NIE, a TIE and an EU registration certificate?
You must distinguish between your identification number and the document that proves your status or registration as a resident.
The NIE identifies you but does not authorise you to live or work in Spain
Your NIE is a personal, unique and exclusive number.
You use it to identify yourself when dealing with Spanish public authorities.
To live or work in Spain, you must meet the requirements of the rules applicable to you.
The assignment of the number does not, in itself, confer those rights.
When an EU registration certificate or a TIE applies
If you are a national of an EU or EEA country, or Switzerland, the EU registration certificate proves your registration as a resident.
This certificate includes your NIE.
A TIE provides evidence of your legal status in the relevant circumstances.
Its issue is linked to the authorisation or rules applicable to you.
Which procedure applies to your circumstances?
Choose the route according to your nationality, the reason for your application and your residence status.
Assignment of an NIE for economic, professional or social interests
Apply for assignment using EX15 if you need the number for any of these interests.
You must state the specific reason.
If you submit the application in Spain, you must be legally present in the country.
Also prepare the documents supporting your request.
Registration of citizens of the EU, the EEA and Switzerland
If you belong to this group and intend to live in Spain for more than three months, you must apply for EU registration.
You must prove that you meet the residence requirements.
Apply directly for registration using EX18. The procedure includes your NIE, without routinely requiring a separate assignment beforehand.
Residence authorisations and cases involving family members
If your residence requires authorisation, start with the relevant procedure.
Then apply for the card where applicable.
If you are a family member of an EU citizen and do not hold EU or EEA nationality, check whether the family member residence card applies to you.
If you are a family member of a Spanish national, check the specific rules applicable to your case.
Which documents should you prepare for each application?
Prepare the form for your procedure and the evidence showing that you meet its specific requirements.
EX15: application for assignment of a number and justification of the reason
Complete and sign EX15. Include proof of payment of fee 790-012 and state why you need the number.
Check the instructions on identification and copies.
Also check which documents you must provide to substantiate your reason.
EX18: identity and evidence of meeting the residence requirements
Prepare EX18, your valid and current passport or national identity card, and the fee.
Add the evidence relevant to your circumstances:
- If you work, provide evidence of your employment or self-employment.
- If you live on your own means, provide evidence of sufficient resources and health insurance.
- If you study, provide evidence of enrolment, healthcare cover and resources.
- If you apply as a family member, provide evidence of the relationship and compliance with the applicable requirements.
If you must demonstrate sufficient resources, their assessment depends on your personal circumstances.
Avoid treating a fixed amount as a universal minimum.
EX17: documentation for the card following authorisation
To document your authorisation through a TIE, prepare EX17 and the relevant fee.
Have your favourable decision available where applicable.
Check the instructions for your case regarding identification and copies.
Also confirm the photograph and fingerprint requirements before attending.
Appointments, fees and application deadlines
Where do you submit the application and how should you organise the appointment?
Before travelling from Torrevieja, confirm which office handles your procedure and how you should book an appointment.
Check the competent office and the procedure before travelling
Consult the official information from the immigration authorities or the National Police for your application.
Check territorial jurisdiction and the specific service provided by the office.
When booking, check that the procedure matches your case.
Keep the booking confirmation and read its documentation instructions.
Applying for the number from abroad through a consulate
If you are outside Spain, apply for assignment of an NIE through the relevant Spanish consular office.
Your request is addressed to the General Commissariat for Immigration and Borders.
Ask the consulate how to submit the documentation and pay the fee.
Also confirm the delivery arrangements.
How do you pay fee 790-012?
Generate form 790-012 with the exact fee category for your procedure and follow the payment instructions on the form.
Choose the relevant fee category and check the amount
Select assignment of an NIE, an EU registration certificate or the specific type of TIE.
For the card, distinguish between first issue, renewal and other cases.
Check the amount when generating the form.
Review your details before paying.
Keep the proof of payment for submission
Keep the receipt proving payment.
Check that it correctly identifies your payment and the selected fee category.
Include it among the documents you submit.
Also keep a copy with your case documents.
Which time limits should you bear in mind?
Organise your application by distinguishing between the legal submission deadline, the wait for an appointment and the administrative decision.
Assignment of an NIE: the decision period and the appointment wait are different
For assignment of an NIE, the maximum decision period is five days from receipt in the register of the competent body.
Allow separately for the wait to submit the application.
Administrative silence has the effect of a refusal.
If you use the consular route, also ask about forwarding and delivery times.
EU registration and TIE: when to submit each application
For EU registration, you must submit your application in person within three months of entering Spain.
Under the general rules, if your visa or authorisation allows you to stay for more than six months, you must apply for a TIE in person within one month.
Check when that period starts in your case: entry, grant of authorisation, commencement of validity or registration with Social Security, as applicable.
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