How to Get a NIE Number in Spain (2026 Guide): Fast & Remote Options

If you are moving to Spain, buying property, or even just inheriting assets, you have likely hit the “NIE Wall.”

You cannot sign a deed, open a bank account, or install WiFi without a Número de Identidad de Extranjero (NIE). But in 2026, getting an appointment (Cita Previa) at a police station is harder than getting tickets to a sold-out concert.

The good news? You do not need to be in Spain to get one. This guide breaks down the three ways to secure your NIE in 2026, including the “Remote” method that bypasses the queues entirely.

Table of contents

• The #1 Confusion: NIE vs. TIE
• Method 1: The “DIY” Police Station Route (High Stress)
• Method 2: The Consulate Route (Slow)
• Method 3: The “Remote” Power of Attorney (Fastest)
• Which NIE do I need? (Resident vs. Non-Resident)
• FAQs

The #1 Confusion: NIE vs. TIE

Before we start, we must clear up the most common mistake expats make.

> Key Takeaway: You need the NIE first. The TIE comes later, after your visa is approved.

Method 1: The “DIY” Police Station Route (High Stress)

This is the traditional method: you fly to Spain, book an appointment, and go to the Oficina de Extranjería.

• Pros: Cheapest option (approx €10 govt fee).
• Cons: Finding an appointment is nearly impossible in major cities (Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, Valencia). You may spend weeks refreshing the website at 8:00 AM.
• The Process:
  1. Book Cita Previa online (select Asignación de NIE).
  2. Fill out Modelo EX-15.
  3. Pay the tax (Modelo 790-012) at a bank before the meeting.
  4. Attend in person with your passport.

Method 2: The Consulate Route (Slow)

You can apply at the Spanish Consulate in your home country (e.g., London, New York).

• Pros: You don’t need to travel to Spain.
• Cons: Processing times are notoriously slow (4–8 weeks). Consulates are often understaffed and may require you to book an appointment months in advance.
• Best For: People with zero budget who are planning 6 months ahead.

Method 3: The “Remote” Power of Attorney (Fastest)

This is the “Concierge” hack used by investors and smart digital nomads. You authorize a Spanish lawyer (like JURO Spain) to go to the police station on your behalf.

• Pros: Zero travel. Zero stress. Guaranteed result.
• Cons: Costs more than DIY (includes notary and legal fees).
• The Process:
  1. Notary: You sign a specific Power of Attorney (POA) at a notary in your country (or online via e-notary if accepted).
  2. The Hague Apostille: You get the POA apostilled (verified for international use).
  3. We Handle It: We take that document to the police in Spain. We skip the “public” queue because lawyers have a separate specialized submission desk.
  4. Delivery: We email you your NIE certificate (PDF) within 1-2 weeks.

Which NIE do I need? (Resident vs. Non-Resident)

• Non-Resident NIE: For buying a house, inheriting property, or opening a bank account without moving to Spain. You receive a white A4 certificate. This is what Method 3 gets you.
• Resident NIE: If you are moving to Spain (e.g., Digital Nomad Visa), your NIE is usually assigned automatically during your visa approval process. You likely don’t need to apply for a separate NIE beforehand unless you are buying property before your visa is approved.

FAQs

Can I buy a car with a Non-Resident NIE? Yes. You do not need to be a resident to own assets in Spain.

How long is the NIE certificate valid for? The number is valid forever. However, the paper certificate (white A4) is technically valid for 3 months for administrative purposes. If you need a fresh copy later, it’s easier to request a duplicate than to apply from scratch.

Do I need an appointment for the Remote Option? No. We handle the appointments internally. You only need to visit a notary in your home city.

Stop fighting the appointment system.

If you value your time, the Remote NIE is the smartest investment you can make before your move.

Get Your NIE Remotely – Book a Consultation