If you’re applying for an NIE number in Spain, you’ll usually need to pay a government fee (tasa) before your appointment. This is commonly paid using a Modelo 790 form (often Modelo 790 Código 012), and you can pay it either:
- In person inside a Spanish bank, at the counter (ventanilla), or
- At a bank ATM/cash machine (cajero automático) using the “Taxes/Tributes” option.
This guide explains both methods clearly, plus what to do if something goes wrong.
Quick summary: what you’re paying and why
When you book an NIE appointment (for example for Asignación de NIE), the police office normally expects you to bring proof that you have paid the relevant fee (tasa).
In most cases, you will need:
- The Modelo 790 fee form (often Código 012) filled out
- Proof of payment (a receipt or a stamped copy)
Important: The exact fee and form can vary depending on your procedure. If you’re unsure, check the instructions on your appointment confirmation or ask your office/gestoría.
What you need before you go to the bank or ATM
Bring:
- ✅ Your Modelo 790 (printed, completed)
- ✅ Your passport / ID
- ✅ Cash or a bank card (depends on the bank/ATM)
- ✅ Your NIE appointment paperwork (recommended)
Do I need a Spanish bank account?
Not always.
- Paying inside the bank can often be done without an account (depends on bank policy and branch).
- Paying at the ATM is easiest if the ATM accepts card payments, but many ATMs also allow cash payment or debit card transactions.
Policies vary a lot by bank and even by branch.
Option 1: Pay your NIE fee inside the bank (counter / ventanilla)
This is the simplest method if you want a human to handle it and stamp your documents.
Step-by-step
- Go to a bank branch (popular options include CaixaBank, Santander, BBVA, Sabadell, etc.).
- Take a ticket for the counter (if required).
- Tell the staff you need to pay a government tax form.
What to say (Spanish):
- “Hola, quiero pagar una tasa con este Modelo 790.”
- “¿Me lo puede sellar, por favor?” (Can you stamp it, please?)
- Hand over:
- Your Modelo 790
- Your ID/passport
- Payment method (cash/card)
- The bank will process it and normally:
- Keep one copy (depending on the form version)
- Stamp your copy and/or provide a payment receipt
What you should leave with
- ✅ A stamped Modelo 790 and/or a bank receipt (justificante de pago)
This is what you bring to your NIE appointment.
Option 2: Pay your NIE fee at a bank ATM/cash machine (cajero automático)
Many Spanish bank ATMs have a menu for Taxes/Tributes/Payments to Public Administration.
Menu names vary by bank, but look for options like:
- Pagos
- Impuestos
- Tributos
- Pago de tasas
- Administración Pública
Step-by-step (typical ATM flow)
- Insert your card (or choose cardless options if available).
- Choose Payments / Taxes / Tributes.
- Select Public Administration / Government fees.
- Enter the details requested from your Modelo 790:
- This may include a reference number, Código, or barcode/scanning
- Confirm the amount and pay.
- Take your receipt.
What you should leave with
- ✅ An ATM receipt proving paymentIf your office is strict, you may still prefer a stamped form from inside the bank—however, many appointments accept the ATM receipt.
Common problems (and how to fix them)
“The bank says they can’t take it”
- Try another branch of the same bank or a different bank.
- Go earlier in the day; some branches stop processing these payments later.
- If they insist you need an account, use an ATM method or try another bank.
“The ATM doesn’t show tax payments”
- Try a larger branch ATM (city centre branches often have more menu options).
- Try another bank’s ATM.
- Pay inside the branch instead.
“I lost the receipt”
- If paid at the counter, the bank may be able to reprint the receipt (not guaranteed).
- If paid at an ATM with your card, the transaction may appear in your bank history, but your NIE office may still want the official receipt.
“My appointment is tomorrow—what’s fastest?”
- Bank counter payment is usually fastest if they’ll process it immediately.
- ATM payment can be fast, but only if the menu supports your form and you can enter the details correctly.
Tips to avoid delays at your NIE appointment
- Print multiple copies of your Modelo 790.
- Keep your receipt stapled to your paperwork.
- Double-check:
- Your personal details
- The procedure type
- The fee amount
- Arrive at the appointment with:
- Proof of payment
- Your passport
- Your application form (EX-15 / relevant form)
- Your supporting documents
Spanish vocabulary you’ll actually use at the bank/ATM
- tasa = fee
- pagar = to pay
- Modelo 790 = tax form
- sellar = to stamp
- justificante de pago = payment proof/receipt
- cajero automático = ATM
- ventanilla = counter
FAQ: Paying the NIE tax
Can I pay the NIE fee in cash?
Often yes at the counter, and sometimes at ATMs that accept cash payments—this depends on the bank.
Do I need the bank to stamp my Modelo 790?
Many offices accept a receipt, but a stamped form is the safest option. If you can get it stamped, do it.
Can I pay on the same day as my NIE appointment?
Sometimes yes, but it’s risky if banks are busy or the branch refuses. Pay at least 1–2 days before if you can.
What if I paid the wrong fee?
You may need to repay the correct fee and, in some cases, request a refund for the incorrect payment. This varies by procedure.
Need help with your NIE paperwork?
If you’re unsure which form/fee you need, or you want to avoid delays, nienumbers.es can help you understand the process and prepare correctly.