On this page
- Overview (What is Form EX-15?)
- Context and workflow
- Requirements snapshot
- Failure prevention (What causes Form EX-15 rejections?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form EX-15?)
- Checklist (What is the Form EX-15 checklist?)
- Processing times
- Where to file
- Fees
- Form sections (What sections does Form EX-15 have?)
- Category comparison
- Strategy tips
- Mistake severity
- Examples (What are examples for Form EX-15?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form EX-15?)
- Scenarios
- Why it matters
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
Overview (What is Form EX-15?)
#The EX-15 form is a critical document for foreigners in Spain who need a NIE, which is necessary for various legal and financial transactions. It is managed by the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration (MISSM) and ensures that foreigners can be properly identified in Spain. Typically, individuals who plan to stay in Spain for an extended period or engage in activities such as opening a bank account, buying property, or starting a business will file this form.
It is a foundational step in the immigration process, and obtaining a NIE is often required before other immigration benefits can be pursued. After filing, the applicant will receive a NIE, which serves as their identification number for all official purposes in Spain. Depending on your eligibility category, EX-15 may be filed alongside Form EX-01, Form EX-02, Form EX-03, or other related forms.
Context and workflow
#This form is typically submitted as a standalone application. Once submitted, applicants may receive a receipt notice confirming their application has been received. Processing time for EX-15 varies by case type and current workload — always check the official MISSM processing time tool.
Where it fits in the workflow
- This form is typically submitted as a standalone application.
- Once submitted, applicants may receive a receipt notice confirming their application has been received.
Who uses it
Applicants who meet the requirements file EX-15. Review the official instructions to confirm eligibility.
When it is used
- NON-LUCRATIVE: Non-Lucrative Residence Visa
- Schengen-tourist — NIE assignment for property/business purposes
- When applying for Non-lucrative — EX-15 is typically required as part of the application
- When filing EX-15 alongside EX-01 (NIE required with non-lucrative application)
- When filing EX-15 alongside EX-02 (NIE for family reunification)
- When filing EX-15 alongside EX-03 (NIE required for work permit)
- When filing EX-15 alongside EX-05 (NIE for Blue Card)
- When filing EX-15 alongside SCHENGEN-VISA-FORM (NIE for property or business in Spain)
Requirements snapshot
#- Arraigo Social: 3+ years continuous presence in Spain with social ties (family/community integration)
- Arraigo Laboral: 2+ years continuous presence with evidence of 6+ months employment
- Arraigo Familiar: Parent of a Spanish-born child or child of a Spanish citizen
Failure prevention (What causes Form EX-15 rejections?)
#Technical rejections
- Submitting the form without the required supporting documents may result in rejection.
- Ensure form edition is current
Substantive weaknesses
- Insufficient detail in the business description can raise concerns.
- Lack of clear financial projections or investment sources may lead to questions about the viability of the business.
- To avoid incomplete or incorrect information: Double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions.
What you need (What do you need for Form EX-15?)
#- The current edition of EX-15
- Valid government-issued identification
- Supporting documentation for your case
- Filing fee or fee waiver documentation
- Complete all required sections, sign, and submit with required evidence.
- Copy of your filed or approved EX-01 (NIE required with non-lucrative application)
- Copy of your filed or approved EX-02 (NIE for family reunification)
- Copy of your filed or approved EX-05 (NIE for Blue Card)
- Copy of your filed or approved SCHENGEN-VISA-FORM (NIE for property or business in Spain)
Checklist (What is the Form EX-15 checklist?)
#- Download the current EX-15 and instructions from the official MISSM website
- Review the official EX-15 instructions before filing
- Complete all required sections of EX-15
- Sign, date, and submit EX-15 with all required supporting evidence
Example receipt notice for EX-15
Processing times
#| Category | Processing time |
|---|---|
| Schengen Visa | approximately 15 daysas of February 2026 |
- Processing time for EX-15 under "Schengen Visa": approximately 15 days (as of February 2026).
- Processing times for EX-15 vary by category and processing location. Verify current processing times with the issuing authority.
- Processing times differ significantly by eligibility category. Initial applications, renewals, and replacements each go through different adjudication queues, and some categories consistently take longer than others.
- Processing times for this form vary by MISSM office and current workload. Verify current processing times with MISSM.
Where to file
#Submit your application at the designated MISSM office, embassy, or consulate. Check the official website for the location with jurisdiction over your place of residence.
Submit application
Submit your application at the MISSM office or designated embassy/consulate in your country of residence. Check the official instructions for the correct location.
Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official MISSM website before submitting. For related guidance, see Form SCHENGEN-VISA-FORM.
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing FeeThe standard filing fee for form ex-15. Check the official fee schedule for the current amount. | See official schedule |
Can the Form EX-15 fee be waived?
Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.
What happens if I submit the wrong fee?
MISSM will reject your application if the incorrect fee is submitted. Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing.
Fee waiver: Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility. For related guidance, see Form EX-05.
Fees change; always verify on MISSM.
Form sections (What sections does Form EX-15 have?)
#Personal Information
Applicant identification.
- Full name and passport details
- Nationality and date of birth
- Current address
Business Plan
Details of the proposed business activity.
- Business description and sector
- Market analysis for Spain
- Financial projections (3-year minimum)
- Investment amount and source of funds
Qualifications
Professional credentials for the business.
- Relevant professional qualifications
- Industry experience
- Professional licenses (if required by Spanish law)
Supporting Documents
Required attachments.
- Proof of investment capital
- Criminal record certificate
- Health insurance
- Detailed business plan document
Category comparison
#| Category code | Eligibility | Typical filing companion | Auto-extension? | Premium processing? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arraigo Social | 3+ years continuous presence in Spain with social ties (family/community integration) | Padrón registration + social integration report from city council | N/A | No |
| Arraigo Laboral | 2+ years continuous presence with evidence of 6+ months employment | Employment records or labor inspection evidence | N/A | No |
| Arraigo Familiar | Parent of a Spanish-born child or child of a Spanish citizen | Birth certificate + family relationship evidence | N/A | No |
| Arraigo Formación | 2+ years continuous presence with commitment to vocational training | Training program enrollment + padrón | N/A | No |
Strategy tips
#Mistake severity
#| Mistake type | Severity | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Incomplete or incorrect information | Delay | Double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions. |
Examples (What are examples for Form EX-15?)
#- Strong application: An applicant submits the form with a detailed business plan and supporting financial documents; the application is approved swiftly.
- Common weakness: An applicant forgets to include their passport number; the form is returned, causing unnecessary delays.
- Scenario: Applicant submits a well-prepared business plan and all required documents. The application is processed without issues, leading to the issuance of the NIE. Always ensure all documents are complete and clearly presented.
- An applicant in the Schengen-tourist category files EX-15 as part of their immigration process
Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form EX-15?)
#- People often think that filing EX-15 guarantees they will receive a NIE, but approval is not guaranteed.
- Some applicants assume that they only need to file EX-15 if they are working in Spain, but it is also necessary for other activities like buying property.
- It is sometimes misunderstood that the NIE is only for long-term residents; in fact, it is required for various transactions regardless of the length of stay.
Scenarios
#An American entrepreneur applies for a self-employment residence permit using EX-15 with a detailed business plan, proof of investment capital, and market analysis.
Self-employment residence and work permit granted. The applicant can establish and operate their business in Spain.
A strong business plan with financial projections and proof of investment capital is essential for self-employment authorization.
An applicant files EX-15 for self-employment but the business plan lacks financial projections and the applicant cannot demonstrate sufficient initial investment.
Application denied for insufficient evidence of business viability. The applicant must revise the business plan and demonstrate adequate capitalization.
Self-employment applications require detailed financial projections, proof of investment funds, and evidence the business is viable in the Spanish market.
A freelance designer from Argentina applies for self-employment with evidence of existing clients in Spain and a stable income stream.
Permit approved based on established client relationships and demonstrated income. Registration as autónomo required within 30 days.
Existing clients and income evidence strengthen the application significantly. Register as autónomo promptly after approval.
Why it matters
#The form is essential for legal and financial activities in Spain.
Why it matters: Without a NIE, foreigners cannot engage in many necessary activities such as opening a bank account or buying property.
Next steps
#- Receive a notice confirming the application has been received.
- Wait for any requests for additional information or documents.
- If approved, receive the NIE and any related certificates.
- Use the NIE for legal identification and business activities in Spain.
Verification
#This guide is derived from official MISSM instructions for EX-15 and is updated when form editions or filing rules change. Always verify current requirements at the official MISSM website.
Resources
#FAQs
Do I need to file EX-15 if I'm only updating my address or contact information?
Address or contact updates may be handled through a dedicated form or through your online account, depending on the agency's procedures. EX-15 may not be required for simple address changes. Check the official instructions to see which form or process applies to your type of update.
What happens if I make a mistake on my EX-15 form?
If you make a mistake on your EX-15 form, it may delay the processing of your application. It is important to review your information carefully before submission.
Can I submit EX-15 online?
Currently, the EX-15 form must be submitted in person at designated offices. Online submission is not typically available. Review the official EX-15 instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.
Do I need to provide additional documents if I am a student?
Yes, students may need to provide proof of enrollment in an educational institution in Spain along with the EX-15 form.
What should I do if I need to change my address after filing EX-15?
If you change your address after filing EX-15, you should notify the relevant authorities as soon as possible to ensure your records are updated.
Can I file EX-15 together with other forms?
Depending on your eligibility category, you may be able to file the EX-15 form alongside other forms. It is advisable to consult the official instructions to determine which forms can be submitted together in your specific case.
What supporting documents do I need for EX-15?
Complete all required sections, sign, and submit with required evidence. The exact documents required depend on your eligibility category. Review the official EX-15 instructions for a complete list.
What is the difference between EX-15 and similar forms?
EX-15 serves a specific role in the immigration process. Similar forms may cover related but distinct situations. Check the official instructions to verify that EX-15 is the correct form for your eligibility category and circumstances before filing.
Who is eligible to file EX-15?
Review the instructions for your specific eligibility category before starting. Eligibility depends on your immigration status and specific circumstances. Review the official EX-15 instructions to determine which eligibility category applies to you.
Can I request a fee waiver for EX-15?
Fee waivers may be available for certain applicants who demonstrate financial hardship or meet specific criteria. Not all forms are eligible for fee waivers. Review the official instructions for EX-15 and the MISSM fee waiver policy to determine whether your situation qualifies.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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