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How to obtain the NIE in Cartagena (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 working days (resolution)

Quick summary

Step-by-step guide for requesting the NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) in Cartagena, Murcia region. Requirements, EX-15 and EX-17 forms, appointment, and foreigner offices in 2026.

Required documents

  • Valid passport

    The original valid passport. No copies are accepted.

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

    EX-15 for non-EU foreigners needing NIE due to 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 document that proves the need for a NIE in Spain.

  • Proof of payment of tax 790-012

    Payment of 10.71€ made at a bank or through electronic means. Download and complete form 790-012 with code 012 (registration certificate or identity card).

  • ?

    Carnet photo Optional

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

    ⚠️ For EU citizens (form EX-17 only)

10.71 €
Tasa modelo 790 código 012 (asignación de NIE) €10.71
€10.71
€10.71

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Identify which 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 obtain a NIE but rather a Registration Certificate that includes an equivalent identification number."

  • 2

    Request appointment at the Foreigners Office

    Go to official site

    Book an appointment at the Foreigners Office or Policía National Police Station in Cartagena. The appointment is made through the Sede Electrónica of the Ministry of Interior, selecting 'Policía - Fingerprinting (NIE issuance and long-term residence card renewal).'

    !

    Expert tip

    "Demand for appointments to obtain a NIE is high. Set up alerts in apps like 'CitaGob' or check the system at 8:00h when new appointments are released."

  • 3

    Pay tax 790-012

    Go to official site

    Make payment of 10.71€ at a collaborating bank or through electronic means. Download, mark and complete form 790-012 with code 012 (registration certificate or identity card), and pay online.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Pay the tax before your appointment, not at the time. You need a stamped receipt."

  • 4

    Attend appointment with all required documents

    Present yourself at the Foreigners Office in Cartagena with: original passport + copy, completed EX-15 or EX-17 form, justification of reason for NIE 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 resolution with your NIE number

    You will receive a receipt with your assigned NIE number. The official certificate may take between 1-3 working days to be available for collection at the office.

    !

    Expert tip

    "The NIE is permanent. Although you may need to renew your residence permit, the number never changes."

Offices and service points - Cartagena

Foreigners Office / Policía National Police Station — Cartagena

Paseo de Alfonso XIII 30201 Cartagena

Monday to Friday: 09:00 - 14:00 (by appointment only)

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between NIE, TIE and EU registration certificate?
NIE is the number assigned to any foreigner in Spain. TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is the physical card for non-EU foreigners with legal residence. The registration certificate is equivalent documentation for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
Can I apply for a 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 purchase). In most cases, you need to be physically present in Spain.
Why do I need a NIE?
For any economic, labor or legal transaction in Spain: opening a bank account, buying real estate, signing a job contract, paying taxes, enrolling at university or applying for social security benefits.
How long is my NIE valid?
The NIE itself is permanent (never expires and does not change). The physical document (TIE or registration certificate) may need to be renewed periodically based on the type of residence permit you hold.
Can I work in Spain with just a NIE?
The NIE is a requirement, but not the only one. To legally work in Spain, you also need an employment authorization (for non-EU citizens) or the EU registration certificate (for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens). The NIE only identifies, it does not authorize 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.