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How to obtain the NIE in San Sebastián (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 applying for the NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) in San Sebastián, Basque Country. Requirements, EX-15 and EX-17 forms, appointment and foreigner's offices in 2026.

Required documents

  • Valid passport original

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

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

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

  • Justification of the reason for needing NIE

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

  • Payment receipt for tax 790-012

    Pay 10.71€ in a collaborating bank or via telematics. Download form 790-012, mark with code 012 (registration certificate or ID 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 which form you need

    Go to official site

    If you are an EU/EEE/Swiss citizen: EX-17 (Registration certificate). If you are a non-EU foreigner: EX-15 (NIE assignment). Both 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

    Book an appointment at the Foreigners' Office or San Sebastián Police Station. Book via the Ministry of Interior's Sede Electrónica selecting 'Police - Biometric Capture (NIE issuance and long-term residency card renewal).'

    !

    Expert tip

    "The demand for NIE appointments is very high. Set up alerts in apps like "CitaGob" or enter at 8:00h when new slots become available."

  • 3

    Pay the 790-012 tax

    Go to official site

    Pay 10.71€ in a collaborating bank or via telematics. Download form 790-012, mark with code 012 (registration certificate or ID card), complete and pay.

    !

    Expert tip

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

  • 4

    Attend your appointment with all required documents

    Visit the Foreigners' Office in San Sebastián with: original passport + copy, EX-15 or EX-17 form completed, proof of reason for NIE and tax payment receipt.

    !

    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 and 3 working days to be available for pickup at the office.

    !

    Expert tip

    "The NIE is permanent. Even if you need to renew your residency permit, the number never changes."

Offices and service points - San Sebastian

Foreigners' Office / National Police Station — San Sebastián

Easo kalea, 74, 20006 Donostia / San Sebastián

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

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between NIE, TIE and EU registration certificate?
The NIE is a 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 documentation for EU/EEE citizens.
Can I apply for NIE without being in Spain?
Yes, in some cases you can request it at a Spanish consulate abroad. However, it can only be done if there's a justified reason (employment contract, property purchase). In most cases, you must be physically present in Spain.
Why do I need the NIE?
For any economic, labor or legal transactions in Spain: opening a bank account, buying property, signing employment contracts, paying taxes, enrolling in university, or applying for social security benefits.
How long is the NIE valid?
The NIE itself is permanent (never expires and never changes). The physical document (TIE or registration certificate) has a limited validity period depending on your residency status.
Can I work in Spain with just the NIE?
While the NIE is required, it's not the only requirement. To legally work you also need an employment authorization (for non-EU citizens) or the EU registration certificate (for EU/EEE citizens). The NIE identifies but does not authorize working.

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.