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How to obtain the NIE in Santiago de Compostela (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 Santiago de Compostela, Galicia. Requirements, EX-15 and EX-17 forms, appointment, and foreigner offices in 2026.

Required documents

  • Valid passport

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

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

    EX-15 for non-EU foreigners requiring NIE for economic, professional or social reasons. EX-17 for EU/EEA citizens requesting registration certificate.

  • Justification of the reason for NIE

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

  • Payment receipt of Tasa 790-012

    Pay 10.71€ at a participating bank or through online banking. Download form 790-012, fill it with code 012 (registration certificate or identity card), and pay.

  • ?

    Carné photograph Optional

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

    ⚠️ For EU citizens only (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 an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen: 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 receive a NIE as such, but a Registration Certificate that includes an equivalent identification number."

  • 2

    Request appointment at the Foreigners Office

    Go to official site

    Make an appointment at the Foreigners Office or Santiago de Compostela Police Station. Book your appointment through the Ministry’s Sede Electrónica selecting ‘Policía - Toma de huellas (expedición de tarjeta) y renovación de tarjeta de larga duración’.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Appointments for NIE are highly sought after. Set up alerts on apps like 'CitaGob' or log in at 8:00h when new appointments become available."

  • 3

    Pay the Tasa 790-012

    Go to official site

    Make a payment of 10.71€ at any participating bank or through online banking. Download form 790-012, fill it with code 012 (registration certificate or identity card), and pay.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Pay the tasa before your appointment, not at the time. You will need a stamped receipt from the bank."

  • 4

    Attend the appointment with all required documentation

    Present yourself at the Foreigners Office in Santiago de Compostela with: original passport + copy, completed EX-15 or EX-17 form, justification of NIE purpose, and payment receipt.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Bring copies of all documents (original and a copy of each one). Many offices request 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 have to renew your residence permit, the number never changes."

Offices and service points - Santiago

Foreigners Office / National Police Station — Santiago de Compostela

Avenida de Figueroa, 3, 15705 Santiago de Compostela

+34 981 55 11 00
Monday to Friday: 09:00 - 14:00 (by 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 (Foreigners Identity Card) is the physical document for non-EU foreigners with legal residency. The registration certificate is equivalent for EU/EEA citizens.
Can I apply for a NIE without being in Spain?
Yes, in some cases you can request it at your local Spanish consulate. However, this applies only if there is a justifiable reason (employment contract, property purchase). In most cases, you need to be physically present in Spain.
What do I need the NIE for?
For any economic, professional or legal purpose in Spain: opening a bank account, purchasing property, signing a work contract, paying taxes, enrolling in university, or applying for social security benefits.
How long is my NIE valid?
The NIE itself is permanent (never expires and never changes). The physical document (TIE or registration certificate) has a validity period which needs to be renewed according to the type of residency.
Can I work in Spain only with my NIE?
The NIE is a requirement, but not the only one. To legally work in Spain, you also need a work authorization (if non-EU) or EU/EEA registration certificate (if EU). 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.