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How to obtain the NIE in Bilbao (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 requesting the NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) in Bilbao, País Vasco. Requirements, EX-15 and EX-17 forms, appointment, and foreigner offices in 2026.

Required documents

  • Valid passport original

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

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

    EX-15 for non-EU foreign nationals who need the NIE for economic, professional or social reasons. EX-17 for EU/EEE citizens requesting registration certificate.

  • Justification of the reason for NIE

    Employment contract, purchase agreement, university enrollment, or any document that proves the need for an NIE in Spain.

  • Receipt of payment for tax 790-012

    Payment of €10.71 made at a collaborating bank or by telematic means. Download form 790-012, mark it with code 012 (registration certificate or identification card), complete and pay.

  • ?

    Carnet-sized photograph Optional

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

    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 non-EU foreign national: 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 rather a Registration Certificate that includes an equivalent identification number."

  • 2

    Request an appointment at the Foreigners Office

    Go to official site

    Schedule an appointment at the Foreigners Office or Bilbao Police Station. The appointment is processed through the Ministry of Interior's Sede Electrónica selecting 'Police - Fingerprint Collection (Issue of ID card and long-term residence permit renewal).'

    !

    Expert tip

    "There is high demand for NIE appointment requests. Set up alerts on apps like 'CitaGob' or check the system at 8:00h when new appointments become available."

  • 3

    Pay the tax 790-012

    Go to official site

    Make a payment of €10.71 at any collaborating bank or by telematic means. Download form 790-012, fill it out with code 012 (registration certificate or ID card), complete and pay.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Pay the tax before your appointment. You need a stamped receipt."

  • 4

    Attend the appointment with all required documentation

    Present yourself at the Foreigners Office in Bilbao with: original passport + copy, EX-15 or EX-17 form filled out, justification of reason for NIE and receipt of paid tax.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Bring copies of all documents (original and a copy of each). 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 to 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 - Bilbao

Foreigners Office / Bilbao Police Station

Gordoniz kalea, 8, 48010 Bilbao

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 a number assigned to any foreigner in Spain. The TIE (Identity Card for Foreigners) is the physical document for non-EU foreign nationals with legal residence. The registration certificate is equivalent documentation for EU/EEE citizens.
Can I apply for NIE without being in Spain?
Yes, in some cases it can be requested at the Spanish Consulate in your home country. However, this is only possible if there is a justified reason (employment contract, investment property purchase). In most cases you must 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 job 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 residence.
Can I work in Spain just with the NIE?
The NIE is a requirement, but not the only one. To work legally you also need an employment authorization (if non-EU) or the EU registration certificate (if EU/EEE citizen). The NIE identifies you, it does not authorize you 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.