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How to get the NIE in San Cristóbal de La Laguna (2026)

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Cost

€10.71

Modelo 790 code 012 (allocation of NIE)

Time at office

30-60 minutes

Estimated time

1-3 working days (resolution)

Quick summary

Step-by-step guide for applying for the NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Canary Islands. Requirements, EX-15 and EX-17 forms, booking an appointment, and immigration offices in 2026.

Required documents

  • Valid passport original

    The valid passport. No photocopies are accepted without the original.

  • EX-15 form (or EX-17 for EU citizens)

    EX-15 for non-EU foreigners who need NIE due to economic, professional or social reasons. EX-17 for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens applying for the registration certificate.

  • Proof of cause for NIE

    Contract of employment, property deed, university enrollment, or any document that verifies the need for NIE in Spain.

  • Payment receipt for fee 790-012

    Pay €10.71 at a collaborating bank or via electronic payment. Download the 790-012 form, fill it with code 012 (registration certificate or identification card), and make the payment.

  • ?

    Carnet-sized photograph Optional

    Only required for EU citizens applying for a registration certificate (EX-17). Not needed for basic NIE (EX-15).

    ⚠️ For EU citizens (form EX-17)

10.71 €
Modelo 790 code 012 (allocation of NIE) €10.71
€10.71
€10.71

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Identify which form you need

    Go to official site

    If you are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen: EX-17 registration certificate. If you are a non-EU foreigner: EX-15 NIE allocation. Both forms can be downloaded for free from the Ministry’s website.

    !

    Expert tip

    "EU citizens (UE/EEA/Swiss) do not receive a NIE but instead a registration certificate that includes an equivalent identification number."

  • 2

    Book appointment at the Immigration Office

    Go to official site

    Request an appointment at the Immigration Office or Police Station in San Cristóbal de La Laguna. Book your appointment via the Ministry of Interior's Electronic Service portal selecting 'Policía - Huellas digitales (expedición de tarjeta) y renovación de tarjeta de larga duración'.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Appointment requests for NIE are very popular. Set up alerts in apps like 'CitaGob' or try entering at 8:00h when new slots become available."

  • 3

    Pay the fee 790-012

    Go to official site

    Pay €10.71 at any collaborating bank or via electronic payment. Download and complete the 790-012 form, mark it with code 012 (registration certificate or identification card), fill in the details, and make the payment.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Pay before your appointment, not on arrival. You need a stamped receipt from the bank."

  • 4

    Attend the appointment with all documentation

    Present yourself at the Immigration Office in San Cristóbal de La Laguna with: original passport + copy, EX-15 or EX-17 form filled out, proof of cause for NIE and payment receipt.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Bring copies of all documents (original and copy of each). Many offices require copies without prior notice."

  • 5

    Receive the resolution with your NIE

    You will receive a receipt with your assigned NIE. The final certificate may take between 1 and 3 working days to be available for collection at the office.

    !

    Expert tip

    "The NIE is permanent. Even if you need to renew your residence permit, the number never changes."

Offices and service points - Laguna

Immigration Office / Police Station — San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Calle Consistorio 38201 La Cuesta

Monday to Friday: 09:00 - 14:00 (by appointment)

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between NIE, TIE, and EU registration certificate?
NIE is the number assigned to any foreigner in Spain. TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is the physical document for non-EU foreigners with legal residence. The registration certificate is equivalent documentation for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
Can I apply for NIE without being in Spain?
Yes, in some cases it can be requested at the Spanish Consulate in your home country. However, this is only possible if there is a justified reason (employment contract, property investment). In most cases, you need to be in Spain.
Why do I need NIE?
For any economic, labor or legal process in Spain: opening a bank account, buying a property, signing an employment contract, paying taxes, enrolling in university, or applying for social security benefits.
How long is the NIE valid for?
The NIE itself is permanent (never expires and never changes). The physical document (TIE or registration certificate) has a validity period that needs to be renewed according to your residence status.
Can I work in Spain with just the NIE?
The NIE is a requirement, but not the only one. To legally work in Spain, you also need a work permit (for non-EU citizens) or an EU registration certificate (for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens). The NIE identifies you but does not authorize employment.

This procedure in other cities

Official sources and useful links

This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.