EX-15 Form: How to Fill In the NIE Application Step by Step
A practical guide to applying for your NIE in Spain. Avoid common mistakes and refusals, and pay your fees correctly.
The EX-15 form is the key document you must submit if you are applying for the Foreign National Identity Number (NIE) in Spain for the first time or if you need to apply for it a second time after a refusal or loss. Filling in this official immigration form without mistakes is essential to avoid unnecessary queues and administrative delays. In this complete independent guide we explain, in simple terms, how to complete the official form point by point.
What is the EX-15 form for?
The EX-15 form is the official form required by the Spanish authorities to assign an NIE (Foreign National Identity Number). This number is essential for any foreign national who, for economic, professional or social reasons, has ties with Spain: from buying a property or opening a bank account to signing a legal employment contract.
Tips from Experience: First vs. Second Time
📌 If It Is Your First Time
The most common mistake when submitting the EX-15 for the first time is leaving out your parents’ full names or not ticking the box for the reason for the application. Always keep your valid passport at hand to copy your details exactly.
🔄 If It Is Your Second Time
If you already had a number and need a duplicate or certificate because of a loss, check carefully that the address on the form matches your current situation or your registration certificate (empadronamiento).
Steps to fill in the form correctly
- Personal details: They must match the details in your passport 100%. Always fill in the form in legible CAPITAL LETTERS.
- Address for notifications: It must be located in Spain so that the administration can contact you.
- Reason for the application: Mark the option that applies to your case with a clear “X” (economic, professional or social interests).
- Supporting documents: Attach the evidence supporting the reason for your application (contract, deeds, letters of introduction, etc.).
Mandatory documents to submit
Besides bringing the completed and printed EX-15 form, the immigration office or police station will ask for several additional documents on the day of your appointment:
- Full passport: Original and a photocopy of all pages (including blank ones, depending on the police station).
- Paid fee form: The bank receipt proving payment of Form 790.
- Documents proving the reason: Explanatory statement, job offer, study certificate or notarial deeds, as applicable.
Paying the Fee: Form 790 (Code 012)
A critical mistake that leads to immediate rejection at the police counter is turning up without having paid the administrative fee. For your EX-15 application to be accepted, you must first fill in and pay Form 790 code 012.
💡 Key to avoiding rejections:
Always bring the original payment receipt stamped by the collaborating bank (or the receipt with the NRC code if you paid online) on the day of your appointment.