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How to obtain the NIE in Elche (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 business days (resolution)

Quick summary

Step-by-step guide for applying for the NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) in Elche, Comunidad Valenciana. Requirements, EX-15 and EX-17 forms, appointment, and immigration 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 the NIE for economic, professional or social reasons. EX-17 for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens seeking the registration certificate.

  • Justification of reason for NIE

    Employment contract, property deed, university enrollment, or any other document that proves the need for an NIE in Spain.

  • Payment receipt for fee 790-012

    Fee of 10.71€ paid at a bank or by electronic means. Download form 790-012, fill it out with code 012 (registration certificate or ID card), and pay.

  • ?

    Carnet-sized photograph 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
Tasa modelo 790 código 012 (asignación de NIE) €10.71
€10.71
€10.71

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Determine which form you need

    Go to official site

    If you are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen: form EX-17 (Registration Certificate). If you are a non-EU foreigner: form EX-15 (NIE assignment). Both can be downloaded for free from the Ministry's website.

    !

    Expert tip

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

  • 2

    Request appointment at the Immigration Office

    Go to official site

    Book an appointment at the Elche Immigration Office or Police Station. The appointment is made through the Ministry of Interior's Sede Electrónica website, selecting 'Policía - Toma de huellas (expedición de tarjeta) y renovación de tarjeta de larga duración'.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Demand for NIE appointment slots is high. Set up alerts using apps like 'CitaGob' or log in at 8:00h when new slots are released."

  • 3

    Pay the 790-012 fee

    Go to official site

    Pay the 10.71€ fee at any collaborating bank or by electronic means. Download and fill out form 790-012, mark it with code 012 (registration certificate or ID card), pay.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Pay the fee before your appointment, not at the office. You need a stamped receipt from the bank."

  • 4

    Attend appointment with all required documents

    Present yourself at the Elche Immigration Office with: original passport + photocopy, EX-15 or EX-17 form filled out, justification of reason for NIE and payment receipt.

    !

    Expert tip

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

  • 5

    Receive resolution with NIE number

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

    !

    Expert tip

    "The NIE is permanent. Although you have to renew your residence permit card periodically, the number never changes."

Offices and service points - Elche

Immigration Office / National Police Station — Elche

Carrer l'Avet, 1

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

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 (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is the physical document for non-EU foreigners with legal residency. The registration certificate is the equivalent document for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
Can I apply for NIE without being in Spain?
Yes, in some cases you can request it at a Spanish consulate in your home country if there is a justified cause (employment contract, property investment). In most cases, however, you need to be physically present in Spain.
Why do I need the NIE?
For any economic, labor or legal matter 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). The physical document (TIE or registration certificate) has an expiration date and must be renewed periodically according to your type of residency.
Can I work in Spain with just the NIE?
While the NIE is a requirement, it's not the only one. To work legally, you also need a work authorization (if non-EU) or the EU/EEA/Swiss registration certificate (if EU citizen). 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.