If you're moving to Madrid, you've probably already heard the horror stories about the NIE. The Número de Identificación de Extranjero is your unique identification number for legal and administrative purposes. It’s that one piece of paper you need for everything—from opening a bank account to getting high-speed internet.
Here’s the thing: the process is simple on paper, but can be a nightmare in practice. I’ve lived in Madrid since 2012, and I’ve seen this system get more complicated every year. This guide isn't a government brochure; it’s a realistic roadmap to help you navigate the bureaucracy without losing your mind.
The Madrid Reality Check: The "Bot" Problem
I’m going to be honest with you: finding an NIE appointment (cita previa) in Madrid is often the most frustrating part of the whole move. Because of high demand and companies using bots to "reserve" and resell slots, the official government website almost always shows "No appointments available".
It’s not you—it’s the system.
Insider Tip: If you are trying to book it yourself, the system typically refreshes with new slots in the morning between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM CET. You should also check on Thursday afternoon between 13:30 and 15:00 CET, as cancelled appointments often reappear in the system then. It requires extreme persistence.
At PropXper, we don't book appointments as a standalone service. However, if you’re at your wits' end, send us an email and we’ll refer you to a trusted partner who handles the NIE application process 100% for you.
Step 0: The Preferred Way (Try Your Consulate First)
Before you arrive in Spain, we practically always recommend trying to obtain your NIE through your local Spanish Consulate in your home country. While some consulates may tell you to wait until you arrive in Madrid, it is absolutely worth the attempt to avoid the local booking nightmare.
- Find the list of Spanish consulates abroad here.
- Navigate to "Servicios Consulares" > "Pasaporte y otros documentos" > "Número de Identidad de Extranjero (NIE)".
- Follow their specific instructions—some require emails, others use an online portal, and a few allow walk-ins.
1. Identify Your Path (It's not the same for everyone)
Before you fill out a single form, you need to know which "track" you are on.
The EU Citizen Path (Practical Reality)
If you are from the EU, life is much simpler, but there is still some confusion between "the number" and "the certificate."
- The Number Only (EX-15): If you just need to open a bank account, buy a property, or pay taxes, you can apply for a "Non-Resident NIE" using Form EX-15. This gives you the number without the residency commitment.
- The "Green NIE" (EX-18): This is your official registration as a resident. Legally, you are supposed to do this within three months of arrival, but practically, there is no "NIE police" checking your entry date.
- When you actually need it: You will only find this mandatory when you start a job contract, need a long-term local health insurance policy, or if a strict landlord insists on it for a long-term lease.
- Students: If you are here just to study, you may never actually need the EX-18 registration. Your passport is usually sufficient for everything from gym memberships to student housing.
Our Advice: If you are just starting your search, get the number (EX-15) first. It’s the key that opens the first doors. You can worry about the residency certificate (EX-18) once you are settled and have a reason to need it.
The Non-EU Path: Visa to TIE
If you are moving from outside the EU (like the US or UK), you don't just "get an NIE". You apply for a Visa in your home country first.
- The Provisional NIE: You will receive a provisional number printed on your Visa.
- The Move: You arrive in Madrid.
- The TIE: Once you land, you have 30 days to apply for your physical residency card (the TIE).
The TIE Trap: To get your card, you must have a registered rental address and a Padrón certificate from the town hall. If you can't find an apartment quickly, your residency timeline is at risk.
Need to hit a deadline? We specialize in finding homes for families on a tight TIE timeline so you can get your paperwork finished on time. Book a Strategy Call.
The Investor Path (Non-Resident)
If you are buying property for investment and don't plan to live here yet, you need a "Non-Resident NIE". We strongly recommend doing this through your local Spanish Consulate before you even arrive. For this, you will typically use Form EX-15.
2. The "Don't Forget" Folder
When you finally get an appointment, the police will not be lenient. You need a folder with:
- Your Passport + A Full Photocopy: Don’t just copy the ID page; copy every single page, even the blank ones.
- Form EX-15: Ensure you check the box for "Economic Interests" if your goal is opening a bank account or buying property.
- Proof of "Why": Bring your job contract, your university acceptance, or your property deposit (arras) receipt to prove why you need the number.
- Tax Model 790: You must pay the administrative fee at a bank before your appointment and bring the stamped receipt.
3. How to Use the Official Site (The Manual Way)
If you're brave enough to try booking in Madrid yourself, follow these steps for the Official Booking Portal:
- Select Madrid and click "Aceptar".
- Under "TRÁMITES POLICÍA NACIONAL," select "POLICIA-ASIGNACION DE N.I.E.".
- Enter your passport details exactly as they appear.
- Click "Solicitar Cita".
- Check the box to receive an email verification of the appointment—you will need this proof to enter the police station.
- If you see "No hay citas disponibles," wait for the next refresh and try again.
Final Thoughts
Relocating to Madrid is an adventure, and the paperwork is just the "initiation fee". Stay persistent, keep your photocopies ready, and remember that once you have that number, the city opens up to you.
Ready to find the home that makes the paperwork worth it? See our Madrid property services.