NIE

What is the difference between the NIE and TIE in Spain, and which one do you need

NIE and TIE in Spain

Among all the other countries, Spain is quite an exquisite destination for residency and a temporary visit. Living in Spain whether temporarily or permanently requires a special document, especially for foreigners. Spain is a place with opportunities like business education, tourism, good weather, and low living costs. If you’re planning just to visit or permanently reside in Spain, you should learn about certain Spanish expatriate policies. It is compulsory for a foreigner to have two important documents with them and these are; the NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) and the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero). In this blog, you’ll learn a lot about TIE and NIE numbers Spain, so let’s get started. 

What is The NIE Number?

NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a number required for the identification of foreigners who want to live in Spain for more than 90 days. It is like a national identity card that allows you to enjoy the luxurious lifestyle in Spain. If you want to partake in an activity like buying property, taxation, education, a job, or any other economic activity, having an NIE number is necessary. You won’t get the NIE number immediately but you’ve to wait for a few days for the process to complete. It is valid for administrative and legal purposes.

Documents Required For NIE Number

Here are the documents that you should have to apply for the Spain NIE number;

  • Application form (EX-15 or EX-18). 
  • A valid passport.
  • A stamped tax 790 form for NIE.
  • Your Visa
  • “Certificate of Residence” of your country.
  • Two Passport size pictures.
  • Document justifying your need for an NIE number in Spain.
  • Bank statements.
  • Your fingerprints.

Note: You should have the photocopies of all the pages of the document to submit it at the concerned department. If you are an EU citizen then you must have a stamp on your passport as proof.

What is the TIE Number?

TIE or Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero is a physical identity card just like your national identity card on which your personal information is written along with your Spanish NIE number. TIE is for non-residents who decide to stay in Spain for more than 90 days. It also depends on your employment status and family ties in Spain. It should be renewed every five years due to security reasons and to continue enjoying your stay in any city in Spain.

Documents Required For TIE Number

Here are the documents that you should have to apply for the TIE number;

  • Application for residence permit.
  • A valid passport.
  • Reason to stay.
  • Bank statements.
  • “Certificate of Residence” of your country.
  • Passport-size pictures.
  • Criminal record certificate (in some cases). 
  • Your fingerprints.

Note: You should have the photocopies of all the pages of the document to submit it at the concerned department.

Difference Between TIE And NIE Number

  • Purpose and Use: TIE is used for proof of your Spanish residency and NIE is used for partaking in legal proceedings.
  • Application Process: You can apply for an NIE number before coming to Spain through NIE services. On the other hand, TIE can only be obtained and applied after arriving in Spain. 
  • Documentation: NIE is a certificate that proves your legal residency in Spain. TIE is a physical identity card with your personal details on it.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Both the numbers are valid for non-Europeans. You can have an NIE number without a TIE number but for a TIE number, you must have an NIE number. 
  • Expiration Date: The NIE number is a document and has no expiry date. TIE has to be renewed every five years depending on your stay in Spain and your visa or residency permit. 

How Long Does The Application Process Take?

Normally, the application process takes two weeks (15 days) after submitting the application form and required documents. After two weeks you can have your NIE number from the immigration office or the nearest police station. When you get the NIE number, you can apply for the TIE number. After the registration, you can obtain your TIE number within approximately forty days.

Stress-Free NIE Services

Are you planning to live in Spain and want to apply for NIE and TIE numbers? Contact us to obtain your Spanish identity. Call us at +34 620045288 or email us at info@nieexpress.com for extraordinary NIE services. Our customer support team will get back to you soon.

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