A NIE may be applied for in Spain or at the Consulate of the applicant's country of residence. Proof of residence in the jurisdiction of the Consulate in New York (NY, NJ, DE, CT and PA) must be provided.
The request may be made either in person or through a duly accredited representative.
Personal appearance of the applicant or their representative is mandatory.
Documentation required to apply for a NIE at the Consular Office
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EX-15 standard application form.pdf (original and one copy), duly completed and signed by the applicant or representative.The form must be typed and printed.The application form must reflect the economic, professional, or social reasons that justify the NIE application You can find instructions on how to fill the EX-15 form in this guide: ![]()
EX15 GUIDE NYC.pdf.
- Original of the applicant's valid passport and a copy of the passport's biographical data page. Nationals of European Union Member States may identify themselves with their national identity document (original and one copy, front and back).If the application is submitted by a representative, only a certified copy of the document must be provided.
- If the NIE is requested via a representative, the original and a copy of the representative's identity document or passport must also be provided, along with a power of attorney in which it is expressly stated that this representative is empowered to present the NIE application.
- If the applicant is a minor or is incapacitated, a copy of the family record book or the birth certificate or the guardianship document must be provided. In addition, a valid passport or ID of parent or guardian must be shown.
- Document proving residence in our Consular area (NY, NJ, CT, PA or DE).
- Form 790 duly completed. The fee will be collected at the Consulate. You can find instructions on how to fill the 790 form in this guide:
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790 Form Manual.pdf
Document processing and delivery time
The NIE is assigned by the General Commissariat for Immigration and Borders. The Consular Office cannot expedite the processing time. The NIE is normally issued within five weeks, but this period may be longer due to factors beyond the control of the administration. The NIE will be sent to the applicant by email. Therefore, an email address for notification purposes must be provided on the application form.
Important information about the NIE
The NIE is a personal, unique and exclusive number that is assigned to foreigners who, for economic, professional, or social reasons, are engaged in activities related to Spain and require identification in this country.
A NIE obtained via the Consular Office identifies the bearer before the Spanish public administration, but it does not entitle to reside in Spain or attest residence.
Residence in Spain can only be applied for through a visa application. In case of citizens of European Union Member States residence is processed through the Central Registry of Foreign Nationals, once in Spain.
Relevant legislation
- Organic Law 4/2000
, of 11 January, on the rights and freedoms of foreigners and their social integration.
- Royal Decree 557/2011, of 20 April, regulating the implementation of Organic Law 4/2000, on the rights and freedoms of foreigners and their social integration, as amended by Organic Law 2/2009.