NIE Express in Spain

Who it is for

Anyone who needs an NIE, a foreigner's ID number in Spain, quickly. You may need it to buy property, inherit, start a business or pay taxes. The normal process is run by the Spanish police or consulates and can take weeks or even months. That delay can be costly when a matter is urgent.

What you need

• You must not be in the country illegally
• A clear reason for needing the number
• Form EX-15 filled in with your details
• Your passport or ID, with copies of all pages
• A passport photo
• A paper showing your reason
• Proof you live in Spain (for EU residents) or proof you entered Spain (for others)

How it works

You can normally apply in person at police or foreigners' offices, or at a Spanish consulate if you are abroad. With this service you do not need to queue. You sign a power of attorney (a paper that lets someone act for you) at a local notary, which takes only a few minutes.

What the service includes

• A first call or meeting to explain the service
• A power of attorney in two languages, which you sign and get officially stamped where you live, then send on
• Your NIE number within a few days after the papers and payment arrive