United Kingdom → Spain · NIE

Apply for a Spanish NIE from the UK: official routes first

You cannot apply for a NIE through this website. Use it to prepare for the current official route in Spain or the Spanish consular office responsible for where you live.

Check the documents Open the document guide →

Identify the real purpose

A NIE is an identifier for foreign nationals with a documented economic, professional or social connection to Spain.

Choose the competent office

UK residents must use the office responsible for their address or an applicable route in Spain; honorary consulates are not assumed to process NIEs.

Prepare the official forms

Check the current EX-15, identity evidence, evidence of need and the applicable Modelo 790 Código 012 instructions.

Preparation, not submission

Document checks by route

The responsible office decides the final requirements. Before attending, check:

current official EX-15 valid passport or accepted identity document and required copies documentary evidence of the concrete reason for the NIE current official fee and payment instructions appointment, jurisdiction or representative documents for the chosen route0 of 5 checks marked

A marked checklist does not prove that an application is complete or admissible.

Costs

Separate the official fee from private assistance

Verify the current official fee and payment method with the responsible office. Travel, translation, notarisation and private representation are separate costs.

Timing

Plan around dependencies, not a promised deadline

identify jurisdiction and route
prepare forms and supporting evidence
attend or use an accepted representative
wait for the authority to process the request

Published consular estimates differ and may change. No end-to-end time is guaranteed.

Procedure boundary

A NIE is not residence status

A consular NIE identifies its holder for dealings with Spanish public administration. It is not a TIE, does not authorise residence and does not prove residence.

Official sources

What the official sources support

Spanish Consulate in Edinburgh: NIE — route, presence, documents and residence boundary.
Spanish Consulate in Manchester: NIE — route and document requirements.
Spanish ministry: current EX-15 — official application form.
Policía Nacional: Modelo 790 Código 012 — official fee route.

2026-08-21. Jurisdiction, appointment links and local payment instructions are volatile and must be checked immediately before use.

What this website does not do

We do not accept applications, store identity documents, book appointments, act as a representative or provide legal advice.