NIE and TIE: What’s the Difference and How to Obtain Them – A Guide for International Students in Spain
A Guide for International Students in Spain
Are you an incoming international student in Spain? Or perhaps you have already landed, now settling in, and adjusting to the new but interesting cultural norms in your new home country. Most importantly, figuring out how to navigate the intricate process of obtaining the necessary documents to make your stay hassle-free (and legal!).
There are essential administrative steps to complete, including obtaining your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) if you’re a European citizen or TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) for, as stated, foreigners or non-EU citizens. This article will walk you through the differences between these documents and provide step-by-step instructions for obtaining them.
But first…
Welcome to Barcelona, Spain!
Congratulations on choosing Spain as your study destination! Whether you’re drawn by the vibrant culture of Barcelona or the high-quality business education offered by institutions like ESEI International Business School, you’re about to embark on a life-changing experience. Adjusting to life in a new cultural environment may seem daunting, but with proper preparation, you’ll thrive academically and socially while enjoying everything this beautiful country has to offer.
What Are NIE and TIE?
To legally reside and study in Spain, international students must obtain either a NIE or a TIE, depending on their nationality. Here’s what they mean:
NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero): A unique identification number assigned to all foreigners in Spain for administrative purposes. It’s required for tasks like opening a bank account or signing contracts.
TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero): A physical card issued to non-EU citizens that serves as proof of legal residency. It includes your NIE number.
Key Differences Between NIE and TIE
– NIE is just a number; TIE is a physical card.
– NIE applies to both EU and non-EU nationals; TIE is specific to non-EU nationals.
– NIE is used for identification in administrative processes; TIE also confirms your residency status.
How to Apply for a TIE (Non-European Students)
Non-EU students staying in Spain for more than six months need a TIE. Follow these steps:
- Prepare Your Documents:
– Completed application form (EX-17).
– Passport (original + photocopies of all pages).
– Student visa stamped in your passport (original + copy).
– Proof of entry into Spain (boarding pass or entry stamp).
– Certificate of enrolment from your educational institution.
– Proof of payment of the application fee (more info below onTasa 790).
– Census registration certificate (*empadronamiento*).
– Three recent passport-sized photos.
- Book an Appointment
Schedule an appointment at the nearest police station through the official Spanish government website.
- In Provincias Disponibles, click the drop down menu and choose Barcelona
- Click ‘Aceptar’
- In ‘Seleciona Oficina’, choose the police station nearest you. Some people choose ‘cualquier oficina’ so as not to limit the options for date availability of the appointment
- In ‘Tramites Policia Nacional,’ choose ‘POLICIA-TOMA DE HUELLAS (EXPEDICIÓN DE TARJETA) INICIAL, RENOVACIÓN, DUPLICADO Y LEY 14/2013 for students
- Double check the information and click ‘Aceptar’
- Read the important information in the next page
- Choose ‘Presentacion sin clave’ at the bottom (assuming this is your first time obtaining documentation from a Spanish government)
- Fill in the information required such as your NIE, full name, and nationality
- If successful in obtaining a schedule after this step, you will see the available dates and select your preference
- Once completed, you will receive an email confirming your appointment
- If not (in cases where there is no availability), repeat the steps mentioned above and try again
- Attend Your Appointment
Bring all required documents and have your fingerprints taken
And don’t forget to bring a printed copy of your Appointment Confirmation!
IMPORTANT: The fee must be paid BEFORE you present yourself and your documents to the police station during your appointment. Use this form (form 790 Code 012) when making the payment and indicate the exact type of document you are requesting. The proof of payment needs to be presented with the rest of your documents.
- Collect Your TIE
It usually takes around 30–45 days to process your TIE. The police station where you submitted your fingerprint and processed your papers will advise you through a receipt when and where to go to collect your card.
How to Apply for an NIE (European Students)
EU nationals staying longer than three months must apply for an NIE. Here’s how:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Completed application form (EX-18).
- Passport or national ID card (original + copy).
- Certificate of enrolment from your educational institution.
- Proof of health insurance covering your stay.
- Proof of payment of the application fee (Tasa 790).
- Proof of reason for moving to Spain (In your case, as a student, the Enrolment Letter from Your University should suffice)
- Or sworn declaration confirming sufficient financial resources
- Book an Appointment
Schedule an appointment at the nearest police station through the official Spanish government website (same link as above)
- In Provincias Disponibles, click the drop down menu and choose Barcelona
- Click ‘Aceptar’
- In ‘Seleciona Oficina’, choose the police station nearest you. Some people choose ‘cualquier oficina’ so as not to limit the options for date availability of the appointment
- In ‘Tramites Policia Nacional,’ choose ‘POLICIA-CERTIFICADO DE REGISTRO DE CIUDADANO DE LA U.E.’
- Double check the information and click ‘Aceptar’
- Read the important information in the next page
- Choose ‘Presentacion sin clave’ at the bottom (assuming this is your first time obtaining documentation from a Spanish government)
- Fill in the information required such as your NIE, full name, and nationality
- If successful in obtaining a schedule after this step, you will see the available dates and select your preference
- Once completed, you will receive an email confirming your appointment
- If not (in cases where there is no availability), repeat the steps mentioned above and try again
- Attend Your Appointment
Submit your documents and pay the application fee.
And don’t forget to bring a printed copy of your Appointment Confirmation!
IMPORTANT: As mentioned above, the fee must be paid BEFORE you present yourself and your documents to the police station during your appointment. Use form 790 Code 012 when making the payment and indicate the exact type of document you are requesting. The proof of payment needs to be presented with the rest of your documents.
- Receive Your NIE on the spot
You’ll receive confirmation with your NIE number shortly after completing the process.
Why Study in Barcelona?
Barcelona is one of Europe’s top destinations for international students, offering unparalleled opportunities for personal and academic growth:
World-Class Education. Home to prestigious institutions like ESEI International Business School, Barcelona provides exceptional business studies programmes that prepare students for global careers.
Cultural Richness. From Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces to vibrant neighbourhoods like El Born, Barcelona is a cultural treasure trove.
Networking Opportunities. As a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, Barcelona hosts events like the Mobile World Congress, connecting students with industry leaders.
Affordable Living. Compared to other European cities, Barcelona offers budget-friendly living options without compromising quality.
Convenient Travel. Its strategic location makes it easy to explore other European cities during breaks.
Why Choose ESEI International Business School?
ESEI International Business School in Barcelona stands out as an ideal choice for both Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in business education:
Accredited Programmes
ESEI offers internationally recognised degrees accredited by institutions such as Keyce Academy – Collège de Paris and Universidad Católica de Murcia.
Through Project-Based Learning (PBL), students gain hands-on experience solving real-world business challenges.
Learn from seasoned professionals who bring global perspectives into the classroom.
Career Advancement Opportunities
ESEI’s strong industry connections help students leverage their international education for career success.
Diverse Student Body
Studying at ESEI means joining a multicultural community that fosters cross-cultural understanding—an essential skill in today’s globalised economy.
Prime Location
Situated in one of Europe’s top start-up hubs, ESEI provides access to networking events and entrepreneurial ecosystems that can shape your future career.
Studying abroad is more than just earning a degree—it’s about embracing new experiences, building lifelong connections, and preparing yourself for a global career. By understanding how to navigate essential processes like obtaining your NIE or TIE, you’re setting yourself up for success from day one.
Barcelona offers everything you could want as an international student: excellent education, cultural immersion, and endless opportunities for personal growth. And with ESEI International Business School at the forefront of innovative business education, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of this transformative journey.
So pack your bags, get your documents ready, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Spain!
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