Spain Residence Permit Guide (NIE and TIE) Step-by-Step for Students and Erasmus Students

When you arrive in Spain for education, Erasmus, a master's degree, or a doctorate, something else awaits you before paella and sangria: Spanish bureaucracy. 📂

The concepts of NIE and TIE are particularly confusing for newcomers to the country. Many people think they are the same thing, but not knowing the difference can hinder processes like opening a bank account or signing a contract.

In this article, we'll leave aside bureaucratic jargon and explain step-by-step how things work in real life, the most common mistakes, and how to obtain your Tie Immigration Certificate (TIE). Ready? Let's begin! 👇

🆔 1. What is NIE? (Identification Number)

NIE ( Número de Identidad de Extranjero ) is your foreign identity number in Spain. Think of it like your Turkish Republic Identity Number (TC Kimlik Numarası). The Spanish government identifies you using this number.

• Characteristic: It starts with "Y" or "Z", continues with numbers, and ends with a letter (e.g., Y-1234567-R).

• Where is it used? You need this number to open a bank account, get internet access, rent a house, pay bills, receive packages, and register for university.

⚠️ Important Note: NIE is just a number. It does not grant you residency rights on its own, nor is it a physical card. This number is usually printed on your visa (see "Numero de Identident" section).

🪪 2. What is TIE? (Physical Card)

TIE ( Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero ) is a physical residence permit card that you carry in your wallet. It is a plastic card containing your photo, fingerprints, address, and NIE number.

In short, the difference is this:

• NIE: This is your number (like your name, it doesn't change).

• TIE: That's the plastic card bearing that number (like your ID card, it gets replaced when it expires).

🤔 Who is required to obtain a TIE (Residence Permit)?

Non-EU citizens staying in Spain for more than 90 days are required to obtain a TIE (Temporary Income Tax Entitlement).

• 🎓 Erasmus students (if they will be staying longer than 6 months).

• 📚 Undergraduate, Master's and Doctoral students.

• 🔬 Researchers and academics.

• 📅 Long-term interns.

Tourists Note: You do not need to purchase a TIE (Tourism Insurance) certificate for stays shorter than 90 days (tourist trips).

📝 Step-by-Step TIE Application Process

After entering Spain with a D-type student visa, you are legally required to initiate the application process for a TIE card within the first month . Here are the steps:

Step 1: Address Registration (Empadronamiento)

Before going to the police, you must go to your local municipality and register your address. This is called an "Empadronamiento". This document is required for your TIE appointment.

Step 2: Date Hunt (Cita Previa)

This is the most difficult part. You need to make an appointment with the immigration office ( Extranjeria ) or the police.

• You must select the "Policia - Toma de Huella" (Fingerprint) option from the system.

• Appointments open early in the morning and sell out in seconds. Be patient and keep trying.

Step 3: Pay the Tax (Tasa Modelo 790-012)

Before your appointment, you must pay the card issuance fee (approximately 16-20 Euros) at an ATM or bank and obtain a receipt.

Step 4: Required Documents

When your appointment (Cita) day arrives, you should have the following with you:

1. Passport: Original and photocopy of the page with photo + visa page.

2. Application Form (EX-17): Completed and signed.

3. Photograph: One biometric photograph taken against a white background (ICAO standards).

4. Empadronamiento: Address registration document obtained from the municipality (dated within the last 3 months).

5. School Acceptance Letter: Matricula (University registration document).

6. Tax Receipt: Receipt for payment of TASA 790-012.

7. Appointment Slip: Printout of the appointment slip.

Step 5: Fingerprint and Delivery

At the police station, you submit your documents and have your fingerprints taken. At the end of the process, they give you a "temporary document". Approximately 30-45 days later , you go back to the same place to pick up your card (usually by making another appointment - "Recogida de Tarjeta").

❌ 5 Most Common Mistakes

Mistakes that cause students to prolong the process:

1. Don't Forget the Photocopies: Spanish officials love paper. Be sure to bring photocopies of every document with you.

2. Incorrect Form Completion: The EX-17 form is required for TIE; do not confuse it with another form.

3. Going Without an Appointment: Don't worry about whether they'll let you in at the door; it's impossible to get in without an appointment.

4. Passport Expiration Date: They will not process your application if your passport is about to expire.

5. Confusing NIE and TIE: It's a big mistake to think you don't need a card just because your visa says NIE. That's just your number; you have to get the card.

⏳ How long does it take to get a TIE card?

• Appointment Scheduling: This can take anywhere from one week to two months, depending on the city.

• Card Printing: Takes 30 to 45 days after fingerprinting.

• Total time: It may take 2-3 months from the moment you arrive in Spain until you receive the card.

💡 Tip: Until your card is issued, the "Resguardo" (stamped document) you are given is your legal residence permit. However, you cannot leave Spain (outside the Schengen area) and return with this document. Plan your trip accordingly!

Conclusion: No Panic, There's a Plan

The residency permit process in Spain is a bit of a test of patience. However, if you have all the necessary documents and know what you're doing, there's nothing to fear.

Once you receive your TIE card, you will have full legal status within Spain, allowing you to travel and enjoy life.