Guide · Basics

NIE vs TIE vs green certificate: which one you need

The NIE is a number; the TIE and the EU registration certificate are documents that carry that number. Many people ask for a NIE when they actually need a different procedure.[1]

Reviewed: 24/10/2026 · Hola Papeles editorial team · How we write our guides

NIEa unique, lifelong number[1]
TIEfor stays or residence over 6 months[2]
GreenEU certificate for living here over 3 months[1]

Quick comparison

DocumentWho it is forWhat it isForm790-012 fee
NIE (“white NIE”)Anyone with economic, professional or social dealings in Spain without residing (or before residing)A personal, unique, lifelong number. It is not a residence or work permit.[1]EX-15€9.84
EU registration certificate (“green NIE”)EU, EEA or Swiss citizens living in Spain over 3 monthsA paper document with your details and NIE.[1]EX-18€12.00
TIENon-EU nationals with a visa or authorisation over 6 monthsCard with photo, NIE and permit type. Proves your status, not your identity.[2][1]EX-17€16.08 (first)
EU family member cardNon-EU family members of EU citizensResidence card, usually valid 5 years.[3]EX-19€12.00
Brexit TIE (Withdrawal Agreement)UK nationals resident before 1/1/2021 and their familiesTIE marked “Artículo 50 TUE”.[4]EX-20 / EX-21 / EX-23€12.00

The NIE: a number, not a permit

The NIE identifies a foreign national with economic, professional or social dealings in Spain: buying property, an inheritance, setting up a company or tax matters.[1][5] It does not let you live or work here.[1] The police decide within 5 days at most.[6]

The TIE: the card for non-EU residents

The TIE proves your administrative status in Spain; your identity is proved by your passport.[2] If you hold a TIE you must carry it.[2] You apply in person, with an appointment and fingerprints, within one month of entry or of being granted your permit.[2]

The EU registration certificate (“green NIE”)

EU, EEA or Swiss citizens who will live in Spain for more than 3 months need it; it shows their details and NIE.[1] Apply within 3 months of entry; it is issued at the appointment.[7]

UK nationals: green certificate and TIE

The green certificate is still a valid residence document, but under the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) it is not accepted as proof of residence at the border; the UK government advises exchanging it for a TIE.[4]

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a separate NIE if I am getting a TIE?
No: if you reside with an authorisation, your NIE is assigned and printed on the TIE.[1]
Can I work with just a NIE?
No. The NIE is only an identification number, not a residence or work permit.[1]
I am an EU citizen moving to Spain. What do I apply for?
The EU registration certificate (EX-18), if you will live here more than 3 months.[1][7]

Rather we prepared it with you?

Fixed-price document preparation: we check your documents, fill in the form and fee, and tell you what to bring. You attend the appointment.

General information based on official sources, not legal advice. If your case is complicated, consult an independent lawyer of your choice or the Legal Guidance Service (SOJ) of your provincial Bar Association.[8]

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