The N.I.E. (Número de Identidad de Extranjeros) is a tax identification number in Spain. The Spanish government links the NIE number to your residency, while the NIE on a residence card (TIE) is connected to social security in Spain.
EU citizens do not receive a Spanish NIE unless they have a tax-related reason, such as owning property or living in Spain as a resident. You need an NIE if you are a foreigner who:
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Becomes a tax resident in Spain.
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A non-resident buying property in Spain. If a couple purchases property together and registers it in both names, both must obtain an NIE.
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Wants to work or start a business in Spain.
The NIE should not be confused with the T.I.E.:
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TIE: Allows you to legally reside in Spain.
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NIE: Identification number assigned for tax purposes.
As an EU citizen, your NIE number does not expire and cannot be renewed. The NIE does not grant resident status in Spain. If you plan to live in Spain permanently, you need to apply for residency.
How to Obtain Your NIE
Applications must be made in person at the local police (Foreigners Departments) in Spain, or via a power of attorney to your lawyer. The Spanish Consulate General does not issue NIE numbers.
Is an N.I.E. Necessary for EU Citizens?
As an EU citizen, your national ID card or passport serves as your identification.
Different Types of NIE: Resident and Non-Resident
For non-EU citizens, there are two types of NIE: “Non-Resident NIE” and “Resident NIE”. For EU citizens, the types are “Non-Resident NIE” and “Certificate of Registration.”
Non-Resident NIE (EU and Non-EU Citizens)
Currently, non-EU citizens can only obtain a non-resident NIE to purchase property or establish a business in Spain. EU citizens can obtain a non-resident NIE if they plan to stay in Spain for less than three months and need to carry out legal transactions during this period.
A non-resident NIE allows you to:
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Open a bank account
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Purchase property or a car
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Start a business or similar activities
A non-resident NIE is valid only for the declared purpose (e.g., buying property) and cannot be used for other reasons, such as registering as self-employed or with Social Security for work. It expires after three months, and if needed for longer, you must renew it. You will not receive a new NIE number; your previous number will be reactivated.
Resident NIE (Non-EU Citizens)
Non-EU citizens who wish to live in Spain must apply for a resident NIE before applying for legal residency. Once they obtain legal residency, they will receive a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).
NIEs (Certificates of Registration) for EU Citizens Residing in Spain
EU citizens planning to live in Spain must apply for a Certificate of Registration (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión Europea), commonly known as the “green certificate,” which provides proof of residence in Spain.
The process and requirements for a “green certificate” differ from those for a non-resident or resident NIE for non-EU citizens.
