If you’re planning to live, work, or buy property in Spain, you’ll quickly come across three letters that matter a lot: NIE. But how long does it actually take to get one? On average, the whole process—from booking your appointment to receiving your certificate—takes between 2 and 6 weeks, depending on your location, the season, and the completeness and accuracy of your paperwork. In smaller cities, you might receive it in just a few days; in Madrid or Barcelona, expect a bit more waiting time.
You can apply for your NIE in person at a Spanish police station or through a consulate abroad. For a smoother process, consider using online through e-residence.com. Let’s break down the full timeline so you know what to expect—and how to speed things up if you’re in a hurry.
Step-by-Step Timeline: From Booking to Receiving Your NIE
Step 1. Booking Your NIE Appointment
The first waiting period starts with the cita previa system (official online booking). Depending on your location, it can take 1 to 3 weeks to find a suitable time slot. In popular areas like Madrid or Barcelona, appointments are often scarce, so it’s helpful to check early in the morning or use nearby alternative locations.
If you hire a gestor or legal service, they often have faster access to appointments. Some agencies monitor the booking system continuously and grab canceled slots as soon as they appear.
Step 2. Submitting Your Documents at the Police Station
Once you have your appointment, you’ll visit the local police station (Oficina de Extranjería) with the following documents: the EX-15 form, your passport, Modelo 790 (code 012) payment receipt, and proof of purpose (such as a job, residence, or property).
At the appointment, you’ll submit your paperwork and fingerprints (if applicable). In smaller towns, your NIE certificate might be issued on the same day. In major cities, the wait is typically 3 to 10 days.
Step 3. Collecting Your NIE Certificate
After submission, the final step is collection. You might receive an email notification or be told to return after a few days. The document you receive is either a printed A4 certificate (for non-residents) or a plastic TIE card (if linked to residency). Processing usually takes up to 10 days.
Average NIE Processing Time by City
| City | Appointment Wait Time | Processing Time After Submission | Total Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Madrid | 2–4 weeks | 5–10 days | 3–6 weeks |
| Barcelona | 2–3 weeks | 5–7 days | 3–5 weeks |
| Valencia | 1–2 weeks | 3–5 days | 2–3 weeks |
| Alicante | 1 week | 1–3 days | 1.5–2 weeks |
| Malaga | 2 weeks | 2–5 days | 2–3 weeks |
These times are estimates and can vary depending on local demand and holidays.
Factors That Affect Your NIE Processing Time
Several factors can influence how long it takes to get your NIE:
- Location: Major cities, such as Madrid and Barcelona, handle more requests, resulting in longer waiting times.
- Incomplete paperwork, including missing forms or incorrect payment receipts (Modelo 790), can cause delays in your application.
- Season: During summer months or holidays, appointment slots fill up fast.
- System issues: The online booking system occasionally crashes or resets.
- Purpose of your NIE: If your request is linked to time-sensitive matters (like a job or visa), authorities may prioritize it.
Urgent and Fast-Track NIE Requests
Need your NIE fast? There are several ways to speed things up:
- Apply through a gestor or lawyer: They can often secure earlier appointments or submit paperwork on your behalf.
- Request urgent processing: If you can demonstrate a pressing need (e.g., a job offer, property signing, or visa deadline), you may qualify for expedited service.
- Use a consulate: If you’re still abroad, Spanish consulates in your home country can process NIE requests before arrival.
- Check smaller cities: If you’re flexible, applying in less busy areas like Alicante or Granada often means same-week appointments.
How to Avoid Long Wait Times
To minimize delays and frustration:
- Check the Cita previa website early in the morning for new openings.
- Prepare all documents in advance and double-check spelling and details to ensure accuracy.
- Avoid peak travel months (June–August), when demand is at its highest.
- If possible, apply online through e-residence.com for guided support.
- Consider applying from abroad via the nearest Spanish consulate.
Common Myths About NIE Timing
- Myth: You can get an NIE anywhere in Spain in one day.
Fact: Same-day issuance is only possible in smaller towns or for urgent cases with complete paperwork. - Myth: Foreigners can skip the appointment and walk in.
Fact: Almost all NIE offices require an appointment; walk-ins are rarely accepted. - Myth: You can use someone else’s appointment.
Fact: Appointments are tied to your name and passport—sharing is not allowed.
Quick Recap: What to Expect
The NIE processing time in Spain ranges from 2 to 6 weeks, and takes 2 – 6 weeks from booking to collection. Expect longer waits in Madrid or Barcelona (3–6 weeks) and faster results in smaller cities (as little as a few days). Key factors affecting processing include appointment availability (cita previa backlog), completeness of documents (EX‑15, Modelo 790), and seasonal demand. Urgent requests, accompanied by supporting documentation such as job offers or property purchases, can be processed within two weeks. Applying via the consulate before arrival or using online assistance can further expedite the process.
If you need expert help or want to avoid the booking chaos, check out our online NIE service.
FAQ: People Also Ask
How long does it take to get an NIE number in Spain?
Usually between 2 and 6 weeks, depending on your location and appointment availability.
Can I get an NIE urgently?
Yes. With proof of urgency (such as a job offer or property purchase), you can often get it in under two weeks.
Why is my NIE appointment delayed?
High demand, missing documents, or technical issues with the booking system are common causes of these problems.
Is NIE issued the same day?
Sometimes. Smaller towns may issue it immediately, while larger cities, such as Madrid or Barcelona, usually take a few days.
Can I apply for an NIE before arriving in Spain?
Yes, through a Spanish consulate in your home country.
Last updated: 11.11.2025