If you are relocating to Barcelona, you should know that if you stay for more than 90 days in Spanish territory, you must obtain a Residence Permit or Residence Certificate. The required permit will differ depending on your status as an EU citizen or non-EU citizen.
What are the differences between CUE/TIE/NIE?
EU citizens must apply for a Community Residence Certificate (CUE), commonly called “NIE Verde”. Non-EU nationals apply for a Foreigners’ Identification Card (TIE).
CUE and TIE documents will carry an identification number called NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjeros).
The NIE is simply an identification number for tax/legal purposes. Foreigners wishing to buy a property or incorporate a company in Spain must obtain the NIE independently. The NIE number, commonly called “NIE Blanco”, does not grant a residence permit.
If the intention is simply to obtain an NIE to purchase a property or incorporate a company in Spain, this can be done relatively quickly at a Spanish consulate in your country.
Why do I need a Certificate of Residence?
In addition to the fact that it is mandatory to have a residence certificate to stay for more than three months, this document is necessary for several procedures and contracts, such as:
- – Being able to work
- – Receiving unemployment benefits
- – Receiving social benefits
- – To apply for a driving licence
- – Opening a bank account as a resident
- – Pay taxes
- – Sign up for a mobile phone or internet contract
- – Many others.
How can I get a Residence certificate for EU citizens (CUE / NIE verde)?
As an EU citizen, you may apply for a residence permit in one of the following cases.
- – If you are employed with a local contract
- – Self-employed
- – Demonstrating funds to support himself/herself
- – As a student
- – As a family member of an EU citizen.
It should be clarified that the CUE or NIE Verde cannot be used to identify the holder; it only proves you have permission to reside in the country. Identification must be completed with a valid document from the EU country of origin (passport or identity card).
The CUE or NIE Verde is a green card about the size of a credit card. It does not contain a photo of the holder and must not be laminated.
How can I get a Residence certificate for non-EU citizens (TIE)?
All foreign nationals (non-EU citizens) who have been issued a visa or authorisation to stay in Spain for more than six months have the right and duty to obtain the Foreign National Identity Card (TIE), which they must apply for in person within one month of their entry into Spain or of the authorisation being granted or becoming valid, respectively. Holders of a seasonal residence and work permit are exempt from this obligation.
The essential requirement for applying for a TIE is a visa or authorisation allowing you to stay in the country for more than six months. E.g. study visa or work visa.
This permit may be applied for by non-EU nationals who:
- – Have an employment contract
- – Hold a Golden Visa
- – Starts a business
Unlike the CUE / NIE Verde, the TIE is a laminated card that includes a photograph and can be used as identification.
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