NIE for a child: getting the number and documents for a minor in Spain
A child needs an NIE if they: are included in your residencia (family reunification/registration), go to school or kindergarten (often required for school enrolment), open a bank account, receive an inheritance or buy something in their name. The number is assigned to a child exactly as to an adult — article 205 of RD 1155/2024 makes no age exceptions.
Who files
The application is filed by parents or legal guardians. If only one parent (or a representative) files, a notarial consent from the other parent or a power of attorney is required (a power-of-attorney template is included in the NIE - Easy pack).
Documents for minors (typically)
- the child's birth certificate — with an apostille and sworn translation (this is the key document: it proves both the child's identity and your parental status);
- passports of the child and the parents;
- empadronamiento where the child is registered together with you;
- the completed application (EX-15) — signed by the parents;
- the paid fee (Modelo 790 code 012 — the amount is printed on the form; as of 15.10.2026 an NIE costs 9,84 €);
- a photo of the child (32×26 mm — requirements depend on the province).
Things that catch beginners
- Translate the birth certificate right away — a sworn translator and an apostille take up to a week, and without them the package is not accepted;
- The second parent: if they are not present at the filing, a notarial consent is required, otherwise they will ask you to fix it;
- School: do not confuse the NIE with the enrolment procedure — schools often accept just the birth certificate and the empadronamiento, while the NIE is needed for social security/healthcare/taxes;
- The appointment: a separate cita previa is booked for the child — they will not let the child in on "your" appointment.
A checklist and a cover-letter template for filing on behalf of a child are in the NIE - Easy pack.
Informational material, not legal advice. Requirements for minors differ between provinces.