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How to obtain or renew the NIE in Terrassa (2026)

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Cost

€10.60

Fee 790-012 (item NIE). The TIE (physical card) may have an additional cost of 15-20€ depending on the process.

Time at office

30-60 minutes

Estimated time

1-4 weeks (depending on the type of NIE and workload)

Quick summary

Complete guide for applying for the NIE (National Identification Number for Foreigners) in Terrassa. Types, requirements, where to apply and cost. Important: The nearest Office of Foreigners to Terrassa is in Barcelona.

Required documents

  • Valid passport

    Original passport and complete photocopy.

  • Form EX-15 (initial NIE) or EX-17 (TIE)

    Completed and signed official form. Available on the Ministry of Interior website.

  • Justification for the application

    Document justifying the need for the NIE: employment contract, property deed, university enrollment, etc.

  • Payment receipt of the fee

    Fee 790-012 paid before the appointment.

  • ?

    Recent passport photos (size ID card) Optional

    2 recent color photos with white background (only for TIE, not for simple NIE).

    ⚠️ Only for TIE application (physical card)

10.6
Fee 790-012 (item NIE). The TIE (physical card) may have an additional cost of 15-20€ depending on the process. €10.60
€10.60
€10.60

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Determine what type of NIE you need

    There are several types: NIE initial (for non-EU citizens, one-time management), TIE (Resident ID Card, for residents), and EU citizen registration certificate. Identify which you need based on your situation.

    !

    Expert tip

    "If you're an EU citizen, you don't need a NIE but the EU Citizen Registration Certificate, which can also be processed at the Office of Foreigners."

  • 2

    Book appointment at the Office of Foreigners in Barcelona

    Go to official site

    Terrassa does not have an own Office of Foreigners. The nearest office is in Barcelona. An appointment is mandatory and should be booked in advance due to high demand.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Since there's no Office of Foreigners in Terrassa, residents must travel to Barcelona (Av. Marquès de l'Argentera, 4). You can also try a police station in Terrassa or Sabadell where sometimes foreign-related services are handled. Check availability at both locations."

  • 3

    Fill out the Form EX-15

    Go to official site

    Download and complete the EX-15 application form (NIE) from the Ministry's website. Print two copies.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Fill out in clear uppercase. The 'reason' section must match exactly with the justifying document you provide."

  • 4

    Pay the fee 790-012

    Go to official site

    Pay the fee at a bank or online before your appointment. Keep the receipt.

  • 5

    Attend the appointment with all documentation

    Present original passport + copy, EX-15 form completed, justification document and payment receipt. For TIE, add 2 ID card-sized photos.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Always bring originals AND copies of everything. The official may ask for a photocopy to keep."

  • 6

    Collect the NIE or TIE

    The NIE (number) can be obtained immediately or after a few days. The TIE (card) takes 1-4 weeks and is collected from the same office where it was applied for.

Offices and service points - Terrassa

Terrassa National Police Station (check availability of foreign-related services)

C/ de l'Ègara, 218, 08224 Terrassa

Mon-Fri: 09:00 - 14:00 (by appointment)

Office of Foreigners in Barcelona (nearest office for Terrassa residents)

Av. Marquès de l'Argentera, 4, 08003 Barcelona

Mon-Fri: 09:00 - 14:00 (by appointment)

Frequently asked questions

Is there an Office of Foreigners in Terrassa?
No. Terrassa does not have its own Office of Foreigners. Residents in Terrassa must apply for the NIE/TIE at the Office of Foreigners in Barcelona (Av. Marquès de l'Argentera, 4) or at a police station in Terrassa or Sabadell sometimes handles foreign-related services. Always check availability online.
What is the NIE and what is it used for?
The NIE (National Identification Number for Foreigners) is the tax and administrative identification number for non-Spanish citizens in Spain. It's required to work, open a bank account, buy property, enroll at university or sign contracts.
How long does it take to get an appointment for the NIE if I live in Terrassa?
The Office of Foreigners in Barcelona has high demand and waiting times can range from 2-8 weeks. It's recommended to try booking early, especially first thing in the morning when new slots are available. You can also attempt appointments at a police station in Sabadell or other nearby towns.
Can I apply for the NIE through a lawyer or representative from Terrassa?
Yes. You can authorize a lawyer, representative, or family member to handle the application on your behalf. Provide a signed authorization and copy of your passport. There are specialized legal firms in Terrassa and Sabadell that offer this service.
Does the NIE expire?
The number itself never expires. However, the physical card (TIE) has an expiration date and must be renewed. For EU citizens, the registration certificate also does not expire but may need to be updated.

Official sources and useful links

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