What is the Oficina de Extranjeros in Spain?
Oficina de Extranjeros - Definition and role in Spain
TheOficina de Extranjeros, or Foreign Nationals Office in French, is a Spanish administrative department specialising in managing procedures relating to foreign nationals in Spain.
📋 What is the Oficina de Extranjeros?
The Oficina de Extranjeros is a public body attached to the Spanish Ministry of the Interior or the provincial prefectures (Subdelegación del Gobierno). These offices are responsible for dealing with the following formalities:
- Application for NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero)
- Application for a temporary or permanent residence permit
- Work permits and residence permits for professional reasons
- Family reunification
- Renewal or change of residence status
- Procedures for regularisation or exceptional residence
📍 Where are the Oficinas de Extranjeros located?
There is an Oficina de Extranjeros in every province of Spain, often part of the local government delegation. They are located in the main cities such as:
- Madrid
- Barcelona
- Valencia
- Alicante
- Seville
- Murcia, etc.
🗓️ How do I make an appointment?
To apply to the Oficina de Extranjeros, you must make an appointment online (cita previa) via the official portal:
Access to appointment booking - ICP Plus
Good to know: Certain requests, such as obtaining an NIE, can also be made to the Spanish National Police, depending on the town.