The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is the most important document for any foreigner in Spain. Without a NIE number, almost nothing works in Mallorca: no bank account, no rental contract, no employment contract, no tax return. Here is your step-by-step guide to getting your NIE number in Mallorca.
What is the NIE number?
The NIE is a unique identification number for foreigners in Spain. It starts with the letter X, Y or Z, followed by 7 digits and a check letter (e.g. X-1234567-A). Your NIE stays with you for life in Spain – it never changes.
What do you need the NIE for?
- Opening a bank account
- Signing a rental or purchase contract
- Employment contracts
- Filing tax returns
- Buying or registering a car
- Phone contracts
- Social security registration
Where to apply for the NIE in Mallorca
The NIE is obtained at the Oficina de Extranjería or the Policía Nacional in Palma. An appointment (Cita Previa) is mandatory. You can book online through the Spanish Interior Ministry website.
Address Policía Nacional Palma: Carrer de Simó Ballester, 8, 07011 Palma
Required documents
- Passport (original + copy)
- Form EX-15 (NIE application, completed in duplicate)
- Proof of purpose: employment contract, purchase contract, rental agreement or proof of economic activity
- Fee receipt: Tasa 012, approx. 12 euros (paid at a Spanish bank, Modelo 790 Code 012)
- 1 passport photo (required at some offices)
Step-by-step guide
1. Book an appointment (Cita Previa)
Book an appointment on the Interior Ministry website. Select “Policía – Certificados UE” or “Asignación NIE”. Appointments are often booked out weeks in advance – book as early as possible.
2. Pay the fee
Complete Modelo 790 Code 012 and pay the fee (approx. 12 euros) at any Spanish bank. You will need the payment receipt at your appointment.
3. Attend your appointment
Arrive on time with all documents. Processing usually takes only a few minutes, though there may be waiting times during busy periods.
4. Receive your NIE
In most cases you will receive your NIE on the same day or within a few days. Sometimes a collection date is arranged.
Tips and common issues
- Appointments are scarce: Check the website several times daily – new slots often appear in the morning
- Power of attorney: You can authorise a lawyer or gestor with a notarised power of attorney
- NIE from abroad: The NIE can also be applied for at the Spanish consulate in your home country – but it takes considerably longer
- NIE vs Residencia: The NIE is just a number, not a residence permit. For the Residencia you need a separate appointment
Costs
The official fee (Tasa 012) is approximately 12 euros. If you hire a gestor or lawyer, expect fees of 50-200 euros on top.
For more about relocating, see our complete guide to moving to Mallorca.
FAQ: Getting your NIE number in Mallorca
How long does it take to get a NIE number in Mallorca?
The appointment itself usually takes only a few minutes, and in many cases you receive your NIE the same day or within a few days. The real bottleneck is the cita previa: depending on the season, expect two to six weeks of waiting for a free slot, so book as early as you can.
Can I get a NIE in Mallorca without an appointment?
No. Walk-ins are not accepted at the Oficina de Extranjería or the Policía Nacional in Palma. New appointment slots are released regularly – checking the booking site early in the morning is the best way to catch cancellations.
Can a gestor or lawyer get the NIE for me?
Yes. With a notarised power of attorney, a gestor or lawyer can apply on your behalf – useful if you are not yet on the island. Expect fees of roughly 50–200 euros on top of the official tax.
Do EU citizens need a NIE?
Yes. The NIE applies to all foreigners, EU citizens included. If you stay longer than three months, you additionally need the green EU registration certificate (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión), which shows your NIE.
Does the NIE number expire?
The number itself is yours for life and never changes. Only the white paper certificate is treated as “recent” for about three months by some banks and authorities – if needed, you can request a fresh copy.
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