How to Obtain your NIE and TIE: Guide for EU and non-EU citizens

12/09/2024 12:15:42

Going abroad

If you're planning to live, work or study in Barcelona, one of the first things you'll need is a Foreigner's Identification Number, known as an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) or a TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) if you're a non-EU/EEA citizen. This number is essential for navigating life in Spain, from opening a bank account to signing a rental contract. In this guide, we'll take you through the whole process of obtaining your NIE or TIE to make it as easy as possible.

1.Understanding the terms:

- NIE:

The NIE (Número de Indentidad de Extranjero) is a unique identification number issued to foreigners living in Spain. It is mandatory for both EU/EEA citizens and non-EU/EEA citizens. The difference is that EU citizens only have to go through this process if they plan to stay in Spain for more than 3 months.

- TIE:

While EU citizens only receive a NIE number, non-EU citizens must apply for both a NIE number and a TIE card (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero). The TIE is a physical card that includes your NIE number, photo and other personal details. It serves as a residence permit for non-EU/EEA citizens and must be carried as proof of your legal status in Spain. Note: Non-EU citizens will have their NIE included in their visa application, so they do not have to request it once they are in Spain.

2. How to obtain the NIE for EU citizens

Step 1: Book an Appointment (Cita Previa)

1. Visit the Government's Appointment System to book a “cita previa” (appointment) at your nearest immigration office (Oficina de Extranjería). Barcelona has several offices, so choose the one most convenient for you. Note: Appointments can be hard to get, so check the website regularly and be prepared to book as soon as a slot opens up. You may also want to consider going to an office a little further away from the city centre, as there may be more slots available.
2. In procedures, select POLICIA - CERTIFICADO DE REGISTRO DE CIUDADANO DE LA U.E. (Certificate of registration of EU Citizen) and click on Aceptar.
3. Next page will explain you the application documents you need. Click on Entrar to continue.
4. Complete the information with your passport, NIE or ID number and complete name, and click on Aceptar.
5. Check that your information is correct and click in Solicitar cita.
6.  Choose one of the offices which appear in the list.
7.  Select the date and time of the appointment.
8. Print the justification of the appointment
9. Your appointment is already requested!

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

The required documents may vary depending on your situation (e.g., student, worker…), but generally, you will need:

• Completed application form EX-18 (check it here).
• ID or Passport and Copies: A valid ID or passport with photocopies of the personal details page.
• Proof of Appointment Confirmation: Printed confirmation of your appointment.
• Proof of the Reason for Your Application: Depending on your circumstances, this could include a job contract, enrollment in a university, or proof of purchasing property.
• Proof of Address: Empadronamiento (certificate of registration) or rental contract.
• Payment of the Fee: Payment of the administrative fee is required. The fee can be paid here. You will have to choose the option Certificado de registro de residente comunitario.

3. How to obtain the TIE for non-EU citizens

Step 1: Book an Appointment (Cita Previa)

1. Visit the Government's Appointment System to book a “cita previa” (appointment) at your nearest immigration office (Oficina de Extranjería). Barcelona has several offices, so choose the one most convenient for you. Note: Appointments can be hard to get, so check the website regularly and be prepared to book as soon as a slot opens up. You may also want to consider going to an office a little further away from the city centre, as there may be more slots available.
2. In procedures, select POLICIA – TOMA DE HUELLAS (EXPEDICIÓN DE TARJETA) (Fingerprinting (Card issue)) and click on Aceptar.
3. Next page will explain you the application documents you need. Click on Entrar to continue.
4. Complete the information with your passport, NIE number, complete name and nationality. Then click on Aceptar. 
5. Check that your information is correct and click in Solicitar cita.
6. Choose one of the offices which appear in the list.
7. Select the date and time of the appointment.
8. Print the justification of the appointment.
9. Your appointment is already requested!

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

The required documents may vary depending on your situation (e.g., student, worker…), but generally, you will need:

• Completed application form EX-17 (check it here).
• Passport and Copies: A valid Passport with photocopies of the personal details page.
• Proof of Appointment Confirmation: Printed confirmation of your appointment.
• Proof of the Reason for Your Application: Depending on your circumstances, this could include a job contract, enrollment in a university, or proof of purchasing property.
• Proof of Address: Empadronamiento (certificate of registration) and rental contract.
• Two recent passport size photos.
• Payment of the Fee: Payment of the administrative fee is required. The fee can be paid here.

Step 3: Attend Your Appointment

• Arrive at the immigration office on time with all your documents. If you’re applying for a TIE, they will take your fingerprints and a passport-sized photo for your card.
• If all your documents are in order, you will receive a receipt and be asked to return in a few weeks to collect your card.

Step 4: Collect Your TIE (if applicable)

• Non-EU/EEA nationals must return to the immigration office to collect their TIE. You will be notified when your card is ready, usually within 30 days.
• Bring your receipt and passport when collecting your TIE.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

• How Long Does It Take to Get an NIE/TIE?
  The process can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the availability of appointments and the complexity of your application.
• Can I Work Without an NIE/TIE?
  No, you generally cannot legally work in Spain without an NIE. Your employer will need your NIE to arrange contracts and social security registration.
• Do I Need to Renew My NIE/TIE?
  An NIE for EU nationals does not expire, while a TIE for non-EU nationals needs to be renewed depending on the duration of your residency permit (normally each year).

5. Tips for a Smooth Process

• Double-Check Your Documents: Make sure all your paperwork is complete and accurate to avoid delays.
• Arrive Early: Arriving ahead of your appointment time ensures that you are ready and relaxed.
• Keep Copies: Always keep photocopies of your documents for your records.

6. More information

For more detailed information, you can always check out the official Barcelona International Welcome website and other expat resources:

• Spanish Ministry website or contact Extranjería in Barcelona:

o   Web: https://bit.ly/1U6YUOx

o   Email: infoext.barcelona@correo.gob.es

o   Tel: +34 935201410

•            If you have any doubts regarding your application or appointment, you can contact Extranjería by completing the following form: https://bit.ly/2Or4UZl
•            If you need help with finding an appointment, there are people specialized to help you with that. In our case, we know some of our customers have work with this: Asesoria Raval Barcelona