If you have moved to Spain or you are thinking about doing so, you have probably come across acronyms such as TIE and NIE while researching the necessary steps to regularise your status. Understanding the main differences between TIE and NIE may seem complicated at first, but don't worry: you're in the right place to clear it all up!
For many Venezuelans who have left our country in search of new opportunities, dealing with the bureaucracy of a new place can be overwhelming.
However, having a good understanding of the documents you need will help you to save time, money and headaches. In this article, we will explain what the TIE and NIE, what each one is for and what are the main differences between the two.
In addition, we will share key information so that you will know which one you need and how to get it depending on your situation. Let's get on with it!
What is the Foreigner Identity Number (NIE)?

The NIE, o Alien Identity Numberis one of the first terms you will hear when you begin to manage your documents in Spain.
Basically, it's a unique number that you identified as a foreigner in the Spanish administrative system. If you have ever been asked for a "NIE" "NIE" "NIE" "NIE" "NIE" "NIE" "NIE to sign a contract or open a bank account with your Venezuelan passport and you had no idea what it was, relax! You are not the only one.
This number is like a DNI (Documento Nacional de Identidad), but for those of us who are not Spanish citizens.
It has a specific format that includes a letter at the beginning, followed by seven digits and another letter at the end (e.g. X1234567L). Once it is assigned to you, it is yours forever, so even if you leave the country and come back later, it will remain the same.
What is it for?
The NIE is essential for any legal, labour or financial formalities you want to do in Spain. Among the most common things you need it for are:
- Open a bank account.
- Buying or renting a home.
- Pay taxes.
- Sign an employment contract.
- Enrolling in studies or courses.
In short, if you plan to stay in Spainthe NIE is indispensable to integrate you into the system. Without it, many doors will remain closed, so getting it should be one of your first priorities.
How is it obtained?
Apply for the NIE is not complicated, but it requires patience and a few steps. You can do it in the foreigners' offices or at a police station. For that, you will need:
- Fill in a specific form (Model EX-15).
- Present your original passport and a copy.
- Explain why you need the NIEWhether you are going to work, study or carry out a legal procedure.
- Pay an administrative fee (which is not very high).
In some cases, you can apply from outside Spain through the consulates, although the process may take a little longer.
The important thing is to be clear that the NIE alone does not entitle you to reside or work in Spainis simply a identification number that will help you to carry out certain procedures.
Now that you know what the NIE and what it is forDon't be afraid of it! It's just one more step to start your new life in Spain.
What is the Alien Identity Card (TIE)?

The TIE, or Foreigner's Identity Cardis another key document you need if you are non-EU citizen (i.e. from a country outside of the European Union) and plan to living in Spain for more than six months.
After this, you may be confused, thinking that the TIE and NIE they're the same, but they're not! Here we will explain everything so that you understand how they differ.
What is it?
The TIE is not a number, like the NIEbut a physical card that identifies you as legal resident in Spain. Think of her as you Spanish "cédula": includes your personal details, a photo of yourself, and, most importantly, your NIE. In other words, the TIE shows that you have permission to live and, in many cases, work in Spain.
What is it for?
The TIE is indispensable because it is the document that certify your legal status in Spain. You will need it for such fundamental things as:
- Proof that you have a residence permit.
- Access to public services, such as health and education.
- Doing bank formalities, renting a house or even joining a gym.
Basically, it's proof that you can being in Spain on a regular basis and enjoy the rights to which you are entitled.
How is it obtained?
If it is already clear to you that you need the TIEThe next step is to know how to get it. This is the process:
- First get your NIE, which is automatically assigned when you are approved for a residence permit, so don't worry, it's part of the process.
- Make your TIE appointment. You have to do it within the first month after you arrived in Spain or after you were given the residence permit.
- Gather documentation. Normally, you will be asked for your original passport and a copy (if you want to know how to get a copy). renew your Venezuelan passport in Spain don't miss our article), proof of residence permit, a form (Model EX-17) and proof of payment of the administrative fee.
- Keep your appointment. During your appointment at the police station, you will be fingerprinted. This step is mandatory because the TIE is a biometric document.
How long does it take to arrive?
After your appointment, it usually takes a few weeks to issue your card. They will give you a stub so that you can show that you are in the process while the physical document arrives.
Main differences between NIE and TIE

By now, you know what is the NIE and what is the TIEbut you may still be asking yourself: "How exactly are they different?
Don't worry, there is bound to be some confusion, because the two are related, but have different functions. Let's clarify the main ones differences between the NIE and TIE in a simple way so that there is no doubt.
Who needs what?
The NIE they need it so badly community citizens (from European Union) as non-EU (such as the Venezuelans). It is mandatory for any foreigner who wants to make formalities in Spaineven if you do not live in the country.
The TIE only those who need it non-EU nationals planning to stay in Spain for more than six months. If you are Venezuelan and have obtained an residence permit, this card is essential to prove your legal status.
Validity and expiry?
The NIE does not expire. It is your unique number and will identify you forever, even if you leave your home country. Spain and come back in a few years.
The TIE does expire. The duration depends on the type of residence permit you have (e.g. one year, two years, etc.), and you will have to renew it when the expiry date arrives.
What are they used for?
The NIE is used to legal and administrative formalitiesas opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, paying taxes or studying.
The TIE is proof that you have the right to be legally resident in Spain. You will use it to accessing public services (such as healthcare), demonstrate your identity and show your legal status in any official procedure.
Which one do you need?
This depends on your situation. If you only need make some formalities (e.g. opening a bank account or buying a car), the NIE is sufficient. On the other hand, if you are going to live in Spain for more than six months and you have a residence permit, then you need the TIEwhich includes your NIE.
Ultimately, understanding these differences will will help you to know which document you need in each case and avoid any confusion.
At CuriaraWe understand how important it is to have the right support when starting a new life abroad. That's why we're here to help you find out what's best for you and your family. differences between the NIE and TIE, making these processes clearer and simpler so that you can focus on build your future with peace of mind.
Moreover, we know that, even though you are far away, your connection with Venezuela will always be essential. That is why we offer you the possibility of send money to your loved ones in Venezuela quickly and securely, through our application available at Google Play as in the App Store. Because even if distance separates us, the heart is always close to home.
Curiara, uniting families.