Everything about the application, documents and costs of the Número de Identidad de Extranjero
Anyone who wants to live, work or buy property in Mallorca needs a NIE number. The Número de Identidad de Extranjero is your personal tax and identification number in Spain – comparable to a national insurance number but with a much broader scope. Without a NIE, you cannot open a bank account or sign a rental contract in Spain.
In this guide, we explain step by step how to apply for your NIE number in Mallorca, which documents you need and what costs and waiting times to expect. This way, you will be well prepared when planning your fresh start on the island.
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The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is a unique identification number that Spain assigns to every foreign person who becomes economically or legally active in the country. It stays with you for life and never changes – even if you leave Spain and return later.
The NIE serves as your personal identifier for all Spanish authorities, banks and insurance companies. It is required for every official transaction.
Without a NIE number, you cannot file a tax return, open a bank account or pay social security contributions in Spain.
Rental agreements, mobile phone contracts, electricity and water connections – your NIE number is required for virtually every contract in Spain.
When buying or selling property in Mallorca, the NIE number is mandatory – both for the notary appointment and for the land registry entry.
The application process is more straightforward than many people think. With the right preparation, you can complete everything in a single morning at the Policía Nacional in Palma de Mallorca.
Book an online appointment (Cita Previa) at the Oficina de Extranjeros or Policía Nacional in Palma de Mallorca. Slots fill up quickly, so plan several weeks in advance.
Download the official application form EX-15 from the Spanish Interior Ministry website and fill it in completely. The form is in Spanish, but it is easy to follow with our instructions.
Collect all required paperwork: valid passport (original and copy), completed EX-15, passport photo, proof of the reason for your application and the fee receipt for Tasa 790-012.
Arrive punctually for your appointment at the Policía Nacional. Bring all original documents along with copies. The officer will review your paperwork and accept your application.
In many cases you will receive your NIE number as a printout on the same day. During busy periods, however, processing can take up to three weeks. Keep the document in a safe place.
To ensure your application runs smoothly, bring the following documents in complete and correct form. Missing paperwork frequently leads to on-the-spot rejection.
Your valid passport serves as primary identification. Be sure to bring a copy of the data page as well – national ID cards are generally not accepted for NIE applications.
The official application form for the NIE number. It is available as a PDF download from the Spanish Interior Ministry website and must be filled in completely.
A recent biometric passport photo in 32 × 26 mm format. Photo shops in Palma offer this service without an appointment.
Depending on your purpose: employment contract, property purchase agreement, rental contract or a written statement (e.g. for opening a bank account). This document proves why you need the NIE.
The fee of approx. €12 must be paid in advance at a Spanish bank. The Tasa 790-012 form is available online or directly at the bank. Without this receipt, your application will not be processed.
If you already live in Mallorca, a certificate of registration (Empadronamiento) from your local town hall may be required. This document confirms your current address on the island.
Applying for a NIE in Mallorca is pleasantly affordable. If you handle the process yourself, you only pay the government fee. Additional costs arise only if you hire a Gestoría.
The official fee for the NIE number is approx. €12. The amount is paid in advance at a Spanish bank and the receipt is attached to your application.
In many cases you receive the NIE number on the day of your appointment. During peak periods – especially in summer – processing can take up to three weeks.
If you prefer not to handle the application yourself, a Gestoría (administrative service provider) can take care of it for you. Costs range from €80 to €150 depending on the provider.
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