For any foreigner planning to live, study, retire, invest, or work in Spain, understanding the difference between the NIE and TIE is one of the first and most critical steps. While these two acronyms are often confused, they serve very different legal and practical functions.
At Lextax, we specialize in guiding expats through the Spanish legal system with clarity and precision. In this article, we clarify what each document is, who needs one, and how to get it.
What Is an NIE?
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a unique identification number assigned to all foreigners with legal, professional, or financial interests in Spain.
Key points:
- The NIE is not a residency card. It is an identification number, typically issued on a standard A4 paper certificate.
- It is required for almost any significant transaction, such as buying property, paying taxes, opening a bank account, or signing an employment contract.
- It is issued to both EU and non-EU nationals.
- Crucially, the NIE does not prove legal residency in Spain.
What Is a TIE?
The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is the physical residency card for non-EU nationals staying in Spain for more than 90 days.
Key points:
- It is a biometric ID card that contains your photo, fingerprint, and your NIE number.
- The TIE serves as definitive proof of your legal residency and your right to stay in Spain under specific terms.
- It is issued to holders of long-stay visas (e.g., Digital Nomad Visa, Golden Visa, Non-Lucrative Visa, Student Visa).
- It must be renewed according to the terms of your residence permit.
NIE vs. TIE: Summary Table
| Feature | NIE | TIE |
| What it is | An identification number | A physical residency card |
| Who gets it | All foreigners (EU & non-EU) with interests in Spain | Non-EU nationals with legal residency |
| Proves Residency? | No | Yes |
| Format | Number on a paper certificate | Biometric photo card |
| Validity | Permanent | Matches your visa/residence duration |
Do EU Citizens Need a TIE?
No. EU citizens do not receive a TIE. As residents, they formalize their status by registering with the Registro Central de Extranjeros and receiving the Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión (CUE), often referred to as the «green certificate.» This certificate includes their NIE and confirms their legal residency
NIE vs. TIE in Practice: Common Scenarios
- Scenario 1: «I’m a Canadian citizen retiring in Spain on a Non-Lucrative Visa.»
You will be assigned an NIE during your visa process, and then you must apply for your TIE card within 30 days of arriving in Spain to formalize your residency. - Scenario 2: «I’m a British citizen buying a holiday home but not moving to Spain.»
You will only need an NIE to purchase the property, open a bank account, and pay taxes. You do not need a TIE as you are not a resident. - Scenario 3: «I’m an Italian citizen moving to Spain for work.»
You will need an NIE for your contract and taxes. Instead of a TIE, you will register for the green CUE certificate to prove your residency.
How to Get Your NIE and TIE
NIE Application:
- From abroad: Apply through a Spanish Consulate in your home country.
- In Spain: Book an appointment at a designated National Police station and submit Form EX-15, your passport, proof of why you need the NIE, and payment of the Modelo 790 tax.
TIE Application (for non-EU residents):
- After entering Spain with a valid long-stay visa, you must register with your local town hall (empadronamiento).
- Book an appointment (cita previa) at the immigration office or designated police station.
- Submit Form EX-17, your visa, passport, photos, and proof of tax payment.
- Attend your biometric appointment (fingerprinting) to finalize the process. Your card will be ready for collection in several weeks
Voice Search FAQs
“Do I need both an NIE and a TIE?”
If you are a non-EU citizen becoming a long-term resident in Spain, yes. The NIE is your number, and the TIE is the card that proves your residency status.
“Is the NIE a residency card?”
No. It is a tax and identification number used for administrative and legal processes. The TIE is the residency card for non-EU nationals.
“How long does it take to get a TIE in Spain?”
Once you complete your biometric appointment, you can typically collect your card in 4–6 weeks.
Why Choose Lextax?
At Lextax, we serve as a bridge between complex Spanish bureaucracy and the international clients who need to navigate it. Whether you’re relocating to Spain, investing, or managing your legal status, we ensure your paperwork is accurate, timely, and stress-free.
Feeling overwhelmed by the paperwork? Let us handle the complexities of your NIE or TIE application.
Contact Lextax today for personalized legal assistance.