The format of the NIE
A NIE is made up of a leading letter (X, Y or Z), seven digits and a final check letter — for example Y-1234567-A. It is issued by the Spanish National Police and is yours for life: it never changes, even if you leave and return to Spain years later.
For EU citizens it is delivered as a green A4 certificate (the "certificado de registro") or a small green card. Non-EU residents receive the number on their TIE card.
You need a NIE in Alicante to:
- Sign an employment contract or register as self-employed (autónomo)
- Open a Spanish bank account
- Buy, sell or rent a property and sign utility contracts
- Pay taxes and receive a salary
- Register a company or become a company director
- Buy or register a vehicle and exchange your driving licence
- Apply for social security and public healthcare
- Inherit assets or sign a notarial deed
- Apply for a mortgage or a loan
- Enrol children in school or sign a university contract
- Set up internet, mobile and other ongoing subscriptions
Why it used to be simple — and is now hard
A decade ago you could walk into a police station and walk out with a NIE the same day. Today demand in Alicante far outstrips the number of appointments ("cita previa") the administration releases, the EX-15 form must be filled correctly, the right tax fee (Modelo 790-012) must be paid in advance, and documents are routinely rejected for small mistakes.
That is exactly the problem we solve: we prepare your file, secure the appointment and walk you through the process so you get your NIE on the first attempt.
In Alicante
Most what is a nie? requests across the Costa Blanca pass through the Alicante office. We know exactly what they ask for — and we accompany you, whether you live in central Alicante or out in San Juan de Alicante.
Frequently asked questions
No. The NIE is the number; the TIE is the physical residence card for non-EU citizens that displays that number.
The number itself never expires. The green EU certificate does not expire either, but a non-EU TIE card has a validity date and must be renewed.
EU citizens can. Non-EU citizens also need a residence and work authorisation in addition to the number.