What form do I use to apply for a NIE?

Form EX-15 ('Solicitud de Número de Identidad de Extranjero') for applications in Spain. Consulates use their own equivalent form. The fee is paid on Modelo 790 código 012 (€9.84).

What is the fastest way to get a NIE?

A representative filing on power of attorney — typically 5–10 working days, no cita previa. In person takes 1–4 weeks including the cita wait; consulates 4–12 weeks.

Can I apply for a NIE without being in Spain?

Yes: at the Spanish consulate in your country, or through a representative with power of attorney (you sign the POA at a notary at home).

Application routes

NIE application: pick your route

Same number, three ways to get it. In person is cheapest, consulates work from home, a representative on POA is fastest. Every route ends at the same police registry with the same €9.84 fee.

Route 1 · Cheapest

In person in Spain

EX-15 + cita previa + €9.84. 1–4 weeks including the cita wait. For people already in Spain.

In-person guide →

Route 2 · From home

Consulate abroad

Consulate form + apostille + translation. 4–12 weeks. Country guides inside.

Consulate guides →

Route 3 · Fastest

Representative on POA

You sign a power of attorney once; we file, pay and deliver. 5–10 working days.

POA guide →

Forms

EX-15 & Modelo 790-012

The two documents every route uses — line-by-line walkthrough, common refusals.

EX-15 guide →

Compare the routes

	In person	Consulate	POA representative
Where you are	In Spain	Anywhere	Anywhere
Realistic timeline	1–4 weeks	4–12 weeks	5–10 working days
Cita previa needed	Yes — the bottleneck	Yes — scarcer	No
Your effort	Full DIY	Full DIY + apostille	Sign POA once
Official fee	€9.84	€9.84 (+ consulate fees)	€9.84 (+ service)

Fastest route starts here

We file on POA — no appointments, no queues, certificate by email. 5–10 working days.

Start your NIE application

Frequently asked questions

What form do I use for a NIE?

EX-15 in Spain; consulate equivalents abroad. Fee on Modelo 790 código 012.

What is the fastest route?

POA representative — 5–10 working days, no cita.

Can I apply from abroad?

Yes — consulate or POA representative.

Sources: Sede Electrónica Policía Nacional — NIE assignment · Ministry of Foreign Affairs — NIE

We are not a government body. We are a tax & accounting service assisting with NIE applications and Spanish paperwork. Facts verified 24 September 2026.