If you’re planning to live, work, or stay in Spain for any significant length of time, you’ve probably heard of the terms NIE and TIE. Both are key identity documents for foreigners in Spain, but they serve different functions and apply to different groups.

Understanding the difference between these two can save you time and confusion during your move. Here’s everything you need to know.

Your NIE is just a number — your TIE is your actual residence card. If you’re from outside the EU and planning to live in Spain long-term, you’ll likely need both.

What is the NIE?

The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is a foreigner identification number assigned to non-Spanish residents. Think of it like your tax identification number in Spain.

• It is required for most legal and financial transactions in Spain.
• You’ll need an NIE to open a bank account, sign a rental contract, start a job, buy a car, or pay taxes.
• The NIE number is printed on a white A4 certificate (often called the “white NIE”).
• Importantly, the NIE is just a number, not a residence permit or proof of legal stay.

Anyone who plans to do business or legal activities in Spain usually needs an NIE, including tourists who want to make property purchases or open bank accounts.

What Is the TIE?

The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is the physical foreigner identity card issued to non-EU citizens who plan to live in Spain long term (over 6 months).

• The TIE is usually valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on your residency status, and must be renewed.
• It contains your photo, personal details, and your NIE number.
• The TIE serves as your official residence permit.
• It proves that you have legal permission to live and work in Spain.

Who Needs an NIE?

• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who want to do financial or legal activities in Spain but do not need a residence permit. (EU citizens will later apply for a Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la UE, which includes their NIE number.)
• Non-EU citizens applying for work, property purchase, or tax purposes.
• Anyone needing to carry out administrative procedures.

Who Needs a TIE?

• Non-EU citizens staying longer than 6 months in Spain.
• Those applying for residency and work permits.
• Students from outside the EU who will study in Spain for extended periods.
• Family members of non-EU residents.

Do EU Citizens Get a TIE?

No. EU citizens do not get a TIE. Instead, they apply for the Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión Europea (the green residency certificate), which includes their NIE number and proves their residency rights.

How to Apply for Each

NIE:

• Book an appointment at the police station or foreign office.
• Fill out the EX-15 form.
• Provide a valid passport or ID.
• Provide documentation proving why you need an NIE (employment contract, property purchase, etc.).
• Pay the fee (usually around €10-15).
• Receive your NIE certificate, usually the same day or within a few days.

TIE:

• First apply for a residence visa at your local Spanish consulate (in your home country).
• After arriving in Spain, book an appointment at the local foreign office or police station.
• Bring your visa, passport, proof of address, and documentation supporting your residency.
• Fill out the EX-17 or EX-18 form (depending on your residency type).
• Pay the fee (usually around €15-20).
• Get your TIE card issued, often within 30 days, but can be 60+ days.

NIE vs TIE: Comparison Chart

Feature	NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)	TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero)
What it is	Foreign Identification Number	Physical Foreigner Identity Card (Residence Permit)
Who issues it	Police or Foreign Office	Police or Foreign Office
Purpose	Identification for legal and financial activities	Proof of legal residence and work authorisation
Who needs it	All foreigners doing business or legal procedures	Non-EU citizens staying in Spain over 6 months
EU citizens	Yes (white NIE certificate)	No — EU citizens get a green residency certificate instead
Non-EU citizens	Yes, before TIE application	Yes, after visa and arrival in Spain
Validity	Indefinite number, certificate may expire	1–5 years depending on residence status
Physical document	White A4 certificate	Plastic card with photo

Final Thoughts

The NIE is your essential foreigner ID number, useful for countless activities in Spain. The TIE is a physical ID card that proves legal residency for non-EU citizens.

If you’re an EU citizen, you only need the NIE (and later the green residency certificate). If you’re a non-EU citizen planning a long stay, you’ll need both: first the NIE, then the TIE.

If you have questions about applying for your NIE or TIE in Tenerife, or want personalised help with appointments and paperwork, feel free to reach out!

---