Obtaining a NIE number (Foreigner Identification Number)
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE NIE:
Please be advised that a NIE certificate issued by a Consulate is NOT valid for work, residence or study purposes.
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, unless you plan to move to Spain in the near future.
A NIE obtained via the Consulate General of Spain in Edinburgh identifies the bearer to all levels of the Spanish public administration, but does NOT entitle the holder to reside in Spain or prove residence there.
Foreigners who wish to become residents in Spain must be aware of the possible need to
obtain a VISA beforehand or to apply for a NIE Digital Nomad Visa/Authorisation, please contact our Visa department who will be pleased to provide you with the necessary information:
cog.edimburgo.vis@maec.es
Citizens of the European Union, once established in Spain, must register at the Central Registry of Foreign Nationals.
PROCEDURE
A NIE may be requested directly in Spain or at the Consular Office of the applicant's country of residence. The request may be made in person or through a duly accredited representative. The physical presence of the applicant or of their representative is mandatory in every case.
If you live in our jurisdiction, you can request an appointment with us. You will need to visit our Edinburgh office in person. Alternatively, you can apply for this NIE number in Spain, either yourself or through an accredited representative.
Request an appointment by sending an e-mail along the following documents (PDF format):
- Original of the applicant's valid passport (valid for more than six months) and a copy. Nationals of Member States of the European Union can identify themselves with their identity document.
- Proof of your address in the consular jurisdiction of the Consulate General of Spain in Edinburgh (Council Tax).
- Documentary proof of the need to obtain a NIE number (mandatory). Document that proves the necessity of a NIE number to carry out a procedure in Spain.
Documents required the day of the appointment for the NIE at the Consulate General of Spain in Edinburgh
- EX-15 Form (original and one copy), completed and signed by the applicant or representative.
Original passport and a photocopy of the page that includes their picture and personal information of your passport
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 presented. In addition, the valid passport or ID of the parent or guardian must be shown in person.
If the application is submitted by a representative, only the certified copy of the applicant's valid passport should be provided, the original and a copy of the representative's identity document or passport must also be presented together with a power of attorney in which it is expressly stated that this representative is empowered to present the NIE application.
- Form 790, code 12, duly completed on a computer and printed.
- In 2026, the fee is £8.65 and must be paid by card that day.
Document processing and delivery time
A NIE is assigned by the General Commissariat for Immigration and Borders, under the aegis of the Spanish Directorate-General for the Police. The Consulate General of Spain in Edinburgh cannot shorten the document processing time. The NIE is normally issued within three-four weeks, but this period may be extended by factors beyond the control of the administration. The NIE is sent to the applicant by email. Therefore, an email address for notification purposes must be provided on the application form.
Relevant legislation
- Organic Law 4/2000, of 11 January, on the rights and freedoms of foreigners and their social integration.
- Royal Decree 1155/2024, of November 19 approving the Regulation of Organic Law 4/2000 on the Rights and Freedoms of Foreigners in Spain and their Social Integration, following its amendment by Organic Law 2/2009