04/06/2026
If you plan to purchase property, open a bank account, invest, or carry out any act with tax implications in Spain, you will need a NIE Blanco.
📌 What is the NIE Blanco?
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is a personal, unique, and exclusive identification number assigned to foreigners.
The so-called “NIE Blanco” is the certificate issued to non-residents who only need the number to carry out economic or legal acts in the country.
It is different from the resident NIE (which is accompanied by the TIE – the physical residence card).
👤 Who can apply?
Any foreigner who:
Is not a resident in Spain
Needs to carry out acts with tax or legal relevance
Examples include:
Property purchase
Opening a company
Incorporating a business
Opening a bank account
Investments
📍 Where to apply?
You can apply:
✅ In Spain
At an Oficina de Extranjería or a Comisaría de Policía Nacional with a prior appointment.
✅ At the Spanish Consulate in your country of residence.
📄 Required documents
Generally required:
Completed EX-15 form
Valid passport (original + copy)
Proof of the reason for the request (purchase contract, bank letter, deed, etc.)
Proof of payment of the fee (Modelo 790 Código 012)
Prior appointment (when required)
⚠️ Each consulate may request additional documentation.
💰 Fee amount
The administrative fee is usually around 9 to 12 euros, depending on annual updates.
⏳ Processing time
In Spain: it may be issued the same day or within up to 5 business days.
At the consulate: it may take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on demand.
📌 Important
The NIE Blanco does not grant residency.
It is only a tax identification number.
It does not allow you to work or legally live in Spain.
