How to Get Your NIE in Mallorca (Foreigner Identification Number)

How to Get Your NIE in Mallorca (Foreigner Identification Number)

If you're planning to buy a house in Spain, one essential step is to obtain your NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero). This number is required for all legal, financial, professional, and social procedures in Spain. And remember—patience is key here, because in Spain, bureaucracy is famously slow. Always stress that it's "urgente" when you can!

What Should You Do to Get Your NIE?

Online Appointment (Recommended):
- Visit the official website and book an appointment online. Choose your province and, if you’re from the EU, select "Certificados UE" (or "Expedición de Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero" if you’re from outside the EU).
- Book your appointment here.
- This is usually the fastest option.

In-Person Option:
- If you prefer, you can go directly to one of the physical offices. Be prepared to arrive early and wait for long hours—Spain’s bureaucratic system is slow, so plan for a full day at least. - For example, if you are in Mallorca, visit Mallorca - Sede 1 - Oficina de Extranjería en Palma.
Address: C/ Felicià Fuster nº 7 - c.p. 07006 - Palma - Illes Balears.
For more details, check the official office page.

Important:
- Appointments can take about a month to be scheduled, so apply as soon as you can.
- Once you have your appointment, note that it might take roughly 3 months to receive your NIE after arriving in Spain if you're an EU citizen—and even longer if you're not.

What Documents Do You Need?

  1. Printed Form EX-18:
  2. Download and print the EX-18 form, fill it out in Spanish, and bring two copies to your appointment.

  3. If you need help with the form, there are English guides available, but remember, only the Spanish version is legally valid.

  4. Proof of Purpose:

  5. Bring the original document and a photocopy that shows why you need the NIE (such as a purchase agreement, work contract, etc.).

  6. Identification:

  7. For non-EU citizens, bring your passport (original and photocopy) plus two passport-size color photos.

  8. If you’re not from the EU, also include your visa, boarding pass, or any document that proves your legal entry into Spain.

  9. Fees:

  10. You’ll need to pay a fee of €10.71 for the processing of your NIE.

  11. Additionally, complete another required form that you must present at any bank.

  12. Additional Resource – Buzón de Consultas:

  13. If you have questions or need further assistance, you can access the Buzón de Consultas provided by the spanish government.

Tip: Double-check that you have all these documents on the day of your appointment to avoid having to come back again.

A Personal Note on Spain's Bureaucracy

In Spain, things are known for moving at a leisurely pace. It's not uncommon for paperwork to take weeks or even months to process. So, be patient and plan ahead. When speaking with officials, make it clear that your request is "urgente"—sometimes, a little extra insistence can help speed things up. Remember, in Spain, a calm and persistent approach often wins the day!

Good luck with your NIE process, and enjoy the journey of setting up your new life in Spain!