The number
A unique reference, the same for life, assigned by the Policía Nacional. On its own it says nothing about residence: it is what non-residents get for a purchase, an inheritance or a short contract.
The green certificate
Issued to Europeans (EU, EEA, Swiss) once they register as living here. It shows the NIE but no photo, so it always travels with a passport or ID card.
The TIE
For non-EU residents: a card with your photo, your NIE, the type of permit you hold and its validity, renewed along with the permit.
A quick way to tell
- EU passport and living here: the green certificate
- Non-EU passport and living here: the TIE
- Not living here, but buying, inheriting or signing: the number alone
- Family of an EU citizen without being one: the EX-19 card
Here in Valencia
In Valencia the number and the green certificate come from the Bailén office, while TIE cards come from the Comisaría de Patraix. Knowing which document you are after tells you which desk to aim for, and that is the first thing we sort out together.
Quick questions
Can I have a NIE without residence?
Yes. The number on its own is common for non-residents with property, investments or paperwork in Spain.
Will my number change if I become resident?
No. Your NIE stays the same; only the document that shows it changes.
Which one do I show at the bank?
Banks usually ask for your passport plus the document that matches your status: the green certificate, the TIE or the NIE certificate for non-residents.