A detailed step-by-step guide to obtaining your NIE tax number and TIE residency card in Spain: booking a Cita Previa, required documents, paying fees, and key nuances.
When moving to Spain, every foreign citizen faces the need to process documents. The two main terms are NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) and TIE (Tarjeta de Identificación de Extranjero).
The NIE is an individual tax number for foreigners. It is assigned once and stays with you forever, regardless of your status and visa type. With a NIE number, you can buy property, open bank accounts, and make major transactions.
The TIE is a plastic resident card confirming your legal right to reside in Spain. The card contains your photo, fingerprints, and the validity period of your residence permit.
The main difficulty lies in getting a Cita Previa (appointment) at a police station or immigration office (Extranjería). Appointments are made through the official administrative procedures portal.
To get an NIE you will need: a completed EX-15 form, original and copy of your passport, proof of the reason for the request (rental contract, property purchase, or intention to open an account), and a paid Tasa 790-012 receipt.
To process a TIE card you will need: the EX-17 form, the residence permit resolution, a passport-sized photo, registration certificate (empadronamiento), and the Tasa 790-012 receipt.
Expert tip: Always check the correct spelling of your first and last name on printed receipts and applications.
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Specialized guides and verified legal updates crafted by immigration, tax, and relocation experts in Spain.