The electronic Spanish National Identity Document (DNIe) is an official personal document that certifies its holder’s identity and personal details, as well as their Spanish nationality. It is compulsory for all Spanish citizens over 14 years of age and is used both for in-person identification and to complete procedures online.

What is the Spanish National Identity Document (DNI)?

The Spanish National Identity Document (DNI) is a plastic card containing the holder’s personal details, photograph, signature and fingerprints. It includes an electronic chip that enables digital identification and electronic signatures, making it easier to complete procedures online.

The DNI is issued by the Spanish National Police, and its validity period varies depending on the holder’s age and other circumstances. In addition to identifying the holder, the DNI allows them to exercise their right to vote and is an essential document for handling many administrative and private matters.

As technology has evolved, the DNI has developed into the electronic DNI (DNIe), which offers additional features, including secure identification in digital environments.

How do you obtain the Spanish National Identity Document (DNI)?

The Spanish National Identity Document is issued at designated police stations. You must book an appointment for the electronic DNI, either online or by telephone.

The documents required for the DNI include a birth certificate, a recent photograph and, for renewals, the previous DNI. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

The DNI application process begins with verification of the documents, followed by the capture of a photograph and fingerprints, and ends with the document being issued.

Spanish citizens living abroad can visit the relevant Consular Office, where they must present a certificate of residence as part of the requirements.

What should you do if your DNI is lost or stolen?

If your Spanish National Identity Document (DNI) is lost or stolen, it is important to act quickly to prevent fraudulent use. The first step is to report it at a police station or, if you are abroad, at a consular office.

After reporting the loss or theft, you must book an appointment to have a new DNI issued. A temporary document will be provided while you wait for the new DNIe to be issued.

It is also advisable to notify banks and any other organisations that may be affected about the loss or theft.

How do you renew an expired DNI?

You must renew your DNI before it expires. The process is similar to applying for one for the first time: you must book an appointment and submit the required documents, which generally include the expired DNI and a recent photograph.

Renewal fees vary depending on whether the renewal is due to expiry, loss or damage. Changes to personal details may also require the document to be renewed.

You can complete this procedure at any police station equipped to issue DNIs, regardless of your address.

What consular services are available for the DNI?

Spanish citizens living abroad can complete procedures related to the DNI at Spain’s Consular Offices. These procedures include issuing and renewing the DNI for people who have proven that they reside outside Spain.

Consular offices also provide assistance if your DNI is lost or stolen, issuing a temporary document that allows you to prove your identity while a new DNIe is being processed.

Please note that the services and procedures available may vary depending on the country where the consular office is located.

Which countries can you travel to with a valid DNI?

A valid DNI allows you to travel to European Union member states and other countries included in the agreement on the free movement of people. However, you need a valid passport to travel outside the Schengen Area.

Before travelling, it is advisable to check the list of countries and their specific entry requirements, as particular conditions or changes to the regulations may apply.

Where can you book a DNI appointment?

You can book a DNI appointment online on the official Ministry of the Interior website or by calling the number provided for this purpose.

Remember that an appointment is essential for any DNI-related procedure. You should book it in advance, especially during busy periods.

Frequently asked questions about the National Identity Document

What is the DNI called in Spain?

In Spain, the official name of this document is the Documento Nacional de Identidad (National Identity Document), commonly abbreviated to DNI. It is also known as the electronic DNI or DNIe when it includes the chip used for digital services.

How do I get a DNI in Spain?

To get a DNI in Spain, you need to book an appointment and go to a police station with the required documents, including a birth certificate and a photograph. If you are renewing your DNI, you must also bring your previous one.

What is a DNI or NIE?

The DNI is the National Identity Document for Spanish citizens, while the NIE is the Foreigner Identification Number issued to non-Spanish citizens who have dealings with Spain for economic, professional or social reasons.

What is the identity document number in Spain?

In Spain, the identity document number is a unique alphanumeric sequence assigned to each citizen on their DNI. It serves to identify them uniquely in various procedures and processes.

To provide more information, let’s watch a video about the DNI and why it matters: