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How to Obtain the NIE in Santa Cruz de Tenerife (2026)

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Cost

€10.71

Tasa modelo 790 código 012 (asignación de NIE)

Time at office

30-60 minutes

Estimated time

1-3 working days (resolution)

Quick summary

Step-by-step guide for requesting the NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands. Requirements, EX-15 and EX-17 forms, appointment, and foreigner offices in 2026.

Required documents

  • Valid passport original

    The valid passport. Copies are not accepted without the original.

  • EX-15 or EX-17 form (for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: EX-17 for registration certificate)

    EX-15 for non-EU foreign nationals needing an NIE for economic, professional, or social reasons. EX-17 for EU/EEA citizens applying for a registration certificate.

  • Justification of the reason for the NIE

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

  • Proof of payment of tax 790-012

    Pay 10.71€ at a collaborating bank or via telematics. Download form 790-012, mark it with code 012 (registration certificate or identity card), fill out and pay.

  • ?

    Carnet-size photograph Optional

    Only needed for EU citizens (form EX-17). Not required for basic NIE (EX-15).

    ⚠️ Only for EU citizens (form EX-17)

10.71 €
Tasa modelo 790 código 012 (asignación de NIE) €10.71
€10.71
€10.71

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Identify the form you need

    Go to official site

    If you are a citizen of the EU/EEA/Switzerland: EX-17 registration certificate. If you are a non-EU foreign national: EX-15 NIE assignment. Both forms can be downloaded for free from the Ministry's website.

    !

    Expert tip

    "EU citizens (UE/EEA/Swiss) do not obtain an NIE as such, but a registration certificate that includes an equivalent identification number."

  • 2

    Request appointment at the Foreigners' Office

    Go to official site

    Book an appointment with the Foreigners' Office or Police Station in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The appointment is processed through the Sede Electrónica of the Ministry of Interior, selecting 'Policía - Toma de huellas (expedición de tarjeta) y renovación de tarjeta de larga duración'.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Demand for NIE appointments is high. Set up alerts on apps like 'CitaGob' or check the office at 8:00h when new slots are released."

  • 3

    Pay tax 790-012

    Go to official site

    Make a payment of 10.71€ at any collaborating bank or via telematics. Download the 790-012 form, mark it with code 012 (registration certificate or identity card), fill out and pay.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Pay the tax before your appointment. You need a stamped bank receipt."

  • 4

    Attend the appointment with all required documentation

    Present yourself at the Foreigners' Office in Santa Cruz de Tenerife with: original passport + copy, EX-15 or EX-17 form filled out, justification for NIE and proof of tax payment.

    !

    Expert tip

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

  • 5

    Receive the resolution with your NIE number

    You will receive a receipt with your assigned NIE. The definitive certificate may take between 1 and 3 working days to be available for pickup 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 - Santa Cruz

Foreigners' Office / Police Station — Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Plaza de Spain 38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife

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

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between NIE, TIE and EU registration certificate?
The NIE is a number assigned to any foreigner in Spain. The TIE (Identity Card for Foreigners) is the physical document for non-EU foreign nationals with legal residency. The registration certificate is the equivalent document for EU/EEA citizens.
Can I request the NIE from outside of Spain?
Yes, in some cases it can be requested at the Spanish Consulate in your home country. However, this only applies if there is a justified reason (employment contract, property investment). In most cases, you need to be present in Spain.
Why do I need the NIE?
For any economic, labor or legal matter in Spain: opening a bank account, buying 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 (it never expires or changes). The physical document (TIE or registration certificate) has a validity period that must be renewed periodically according to your type of residency.
Can I work in Spain with just the NIE?
While the NIE is required, it's not enough on its own. To work legally, you also need a work permit (for non-EU citizens) or an EU/EEA registration certificate (for EU citizens). The NIE only identifies, it 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.