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How to obtain the NIE in Leon (2026)

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Cost

€10.71

Fee model 790 code 012 (assignment of NIE)

Time at office

30-60 minutes

Estimated time

1-3 business days (resolution)

Quick summary

Step-by-step guide for applying for the NIE (Number of Identity of Foreigner) in Leon, Castilla y León. Requirements, forms EX-15 and EX-17, appointment, and foreign affairs offices in 2026.

Required documents

  • Valid passport

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

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

    EX-15 for foreigners from outside the EU who need the NIE for economic, professional or social reasons. EX-17 for EU/EEE citizens applying for a registration certificate.

  • Justification of the reason for obtaining the NIE

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

  • Payment receipt for fee 790-012

    Fee of 10.71€ paid at a bank or through telematic payment. Download form 790-012, mark it with code 012 (registration certificate or identity card), fill out and pay.

  • ?

    Carnet photo Optional

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

    ⚠️ Only for EU citizens (form EX-17)

10.71 €
Fee model 790 code 012 (assignment of NIE) €10.71
€10.71
€10.71

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Identify the form you need

    Go to official site

    If you are an EU/EEE/Swiss citizen: Form EX-17 (Registration Certificate). If you are a foreigner from outside the EU: Form EX-15 (Assignment of NIE). Both can be downloaded for free from the Ministry's website.

    !

    Expert tip

    "EU citizens do not obtain a NIE as such, but a Registration Certificate that includes an equivalent identification number."

  • 2

    Request appointment at the Foreign Affairs Office

    Go to official site

    Schedule an appointment at the Foreign Affairs Office or Police Station in Leon. The appointment is made through the Ministry of Interior's Sede Electrónica selecting 'Policía - Fingerprinting (issue and renewal of long-stay card).'

    !

    Expert tip

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

  • 3

    Pay the fee 790-012

    Go to official site

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

    !

    Expert tip

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

  • 4

    Attend the appointment with all documents

    Present yourself at the Foreign Affairs Office in Leon with: original passport + copy, EX-15 or EX-17 form filled out, justification of reason for NIE and payment receipt.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Bring copies of all documents (original and a copy of 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 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 - Leon

Foreign Affairs Office / Police National Station — Leon

Calle Villa Benavente 24004 León

Monday to Friday: 9:00 - 14:00 (with appointment)

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between NIE, TIE and EU registration certificate?
The NIE is the number assigned to any foreigner in Spain. The TIE (Identity Card of Foreigner) is the physical document for non-EU citizens with legal residency. The registration certificate is the equivalent document for EU/EEE citizens.
Can I apply for a NIE from outside Spain?
Yes, in some cases you can apply at the Spanish Consulate in your home country if there is a justified cause (employment contract, property investment). However, in most cases it is necessary to be physically present in Spain.
Why do I need a NIE?
For any economic, labor or legal process in Spain: opening a bank account, buying real estate, 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 or changes). What has an expiration date are the physical documents (TIE or registration certificate), which must be renewed periodically according to your type of residency.
Can I work in Spain just with a NIE?
The NIE is required, but not the only one. To legally work you also need an employment authorization (if non-EU citizen) or an EU registration certificate (if EU/EEE citizen). The NIE only identifies, it does not authorize to work.

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.