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How to obtain the NIE in Santander (2026)

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Cost

€10.71

Tasa modelo 790 código 012 (allocation of NIE)

Time at office

30-60 minutes

Estimated time

1-3 business days (resolution)

Quick summary

Step-by-step guide to apply for the NIE (Number of Identity for Foreigners) in Santander, Cantabria. Requirements, EX-15 and EX-17 forms, appointment and foreigner offices in 2026.

Required documents

  • Valid passport original

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

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

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

  • Justification of the reason for NIE

    Employment contract, property purchase agreement, university enrollment, or any document that proves the need for NIE in Spain.

  • Proof of payment for tax 790-012

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

  • ?

    Carnet-sized photograph Optional

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

    ⚠️ For EU citizens (form EX-17)

10.71 €
Tasa modelo 790 código 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 a citizen of the EU/EEE/Switzerland: EX-17 (Registration Certificate). If you are a non-EU foreigner: EX-15 (Assignment of NIE). Both forms can be downloaded for free from the Ministry’s website.

    !

    Expert tip

    "EU citizens 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 Santander. The appointment is processed via the Sede Electrónica del Ministerio del Interior, selecting 'Policía - Toma de huellas (expedición de tarjeta) y renovación de tarjeta de larga duración'.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Demand for appointments to obtain NIE is high. Set up alerts on apps like 'CitaGob' or log in at 8:00h when new slots become available."

  • 3

    Pay the tax 790-012

    Go to official site

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

    !

    Expert tip

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

  • 4

    Attend the appointment with all required documents

    Present yourself at the Santander Foreigners Office with: original passport + photocopy, completed EX-15 or EX-17 form, justification for NIE and payment receipt.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Bring copies of all your documents (original plus one copy each). Many offices ask for copies without prior notice."

  • 5

    Receive the resolution with your NIE number

    You will receive a receipt with your assigned NIE. The final certificate may take between 1 and 3 business days to be ready 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 - Santander

Foreigners Office / Police National Station - Santander

Muelle del Almirante 39009 Santander

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 a number assigned to any foreigner in Spain. TIE (Identity Card for Foreigners) is a physical document for non-EU foreigners with legal residence. The registration certificate is the equivalent document for EU/EEE citizens.
Can I apply for NIE without being in Spain?
Yes, in some cases you can request it 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 physically present in Spain.
Why do I need NIE?
For any economic, labor or legal process in Spain: opening a bank account, buying property, signing a work contract, paying taxes, enrolling in university, or applying for social security benefits.
How long is the NIE valid?
The NIE itself is permanent (never expires and does not change). The physical document (TIE or registration certificate) may have an expiry date depending on your type of residence.
Can I work in Spain with just NIE?
While the NIE is a requirement, it’s not the only one. To work legally, you also need a work permit (if non-EU) or the EU registration certificate (if EU/EEE citizen). The NIE identifies but does not authorize employment.

Official sources and useful links

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