Spain attracts many expatriates every year. There are over 5.5 million foreigners living in the country. To settle legally in the country, 3 documents are required: the NIE, the TIE and the Certificate of Residence. Which one is right for you depends on your situation. Terreta Spain takes stock.
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero or Numéro d'Identité des Étrangers)
We've devoted a full, very detailed article to it, but let's go back over the essential information so that we can clearly compare these 3 documents.
The NIE is a number that allows foreigners to carry out administrative procedures and economic transactions in Spain.
Key features
- Target group: all foreigners, whether European or not.
- Uses :
- Economic transactions, such as real estate investment;
- Opening a bank account in Spain ;
- Starting a business ;
- University registration ;
- Etc...
To launch your property investment project from the comfort of your own home, make an appointment with the Terreta Spain experts.
Special features
NIE:
- Not a physical card;
- Not an identity document;
- Is valid for life (if you leave Spain and return 10 years later, your NIE number will be the same);
- Good to know: it can be obtained without leaving Spain.
How do I get it?
The procedure is detailed here, but let's summarize the 4 main steps:
- Make an appointment at the consulate or with the national police.
- Fill in the EX-15 form, available by clicking on this link. Then modelo 790 codigo 012 (to pay the fee of around €10).
- Please provide the following documents:
- The reason for your request (e.g. purchase of a property in Spain) ;
- Identity document ;
- Please note that documents written in a foreign language must be translated into Spanish by an official translator.
The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero or Identity Card for Foreigners)
This document is little-known, but absolutely essential for non-EU citizens who choose to live in Spain. It's their identity card.
Key features
- Public concerned: non-Europeans staying longer than 6 months on Spanish territory. Please note: since the Brexit, British citizens must apply for a TIE.
- When should I apply? Within 30 days of arrival in Spain.
- Validity: the TIE is valid for 5 years.
- What does this document contain?
- The holder's personal information ;
- His photo;
- Fingerprints;
- Its NIE number.
How do I get it?
- A valid NIE is essential.
- Make an appointment at the consulate or with the national police.
- Complete form EX-17 or form EX-23if you are a British citizen.
- Pay the tax of between €12 and €15 depending on your situation (check the amount for you on this link) and fill in the modelo 790 codigo 012.
- Supply :
- Passport photo ;
- Proof of status ;
- Don't forget to have your Spanish documents translated by a sworn translator.
The EU Residence Certificate (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la UE)
This document is for citizens of the EU or European Economic Area who wish to reside in Spain for more than 90 days.
Key features
- It's often called the "Spanish Green Card" because it's a small, green business-card-sized piece of paper;
- The document is valid indefinitely and cannot be renewed;
- It is used to confirm European resident status.
How do I get it?
- You must be resident in Spain for at least 3 consecutive months.
- It is absolutely essential to provide proof of your status and the reason for your expatriation: studies, work, retirement, etc.
- Complete Form EX-18.
- Pay the corresponding fee of €12 and complete the Modelo 790-12.
- Provide the supporting documents requested and ensure that they are duly translated into Spanish.
Practical advice from our experts
Remember :
- Each family member must apply for an NIE, TIE or Certificate of Residence.
- Don't forget that your documents must be translated by a sworn professional.
- Administrative delays can be very long. Please bear this in mind.
FAQ : NIE, TIE and Certificate of Residence
How long does it take to receive my NIE, TIE or Certificate of Residence?
For the NIE, you can count on 2 to 4 weeks. For the TIE, the authorities say it will take a maximum of 45 days. As for the Certificate of Residence, this can be obtained immediately, during the official appointment you will have made online.
Can you invest without an NIE?
You won't be able to buy or rent a property without an NIE.
Is the Certificado de Registro de la UE renewable?
No, it's valid for life.
Does an American citizen need an NIE or TIE?
Both: the NIE is required to carry out administrative procedures in Spain (even for non-residents) and the TIE is required if you are living in Spain for more than 3 months (residence or work).
Conclusion
NIE, TIE or Certificado de Registro de la UE, understanding the difference between these 3 documents is essential to the success of your investment and/or expatriation in Spain. Be patient and precise in your dealings to avoid any disappointment. If in doubt, Terreta Spain advises you to consult a specialist lawyer. Contact us to be put in touch with experienced, multilingual professionals.
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