The NIE is a number. The TIE is a card. You can have an NIE without a TIE, but your TIE will show your NIE number.
NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero)
- A number assigned to foreigners for identification
- Needed for any financial or official dealings
- Format: Letter + 7 digits + letter (X1234567A)
- Comes as a paper certificate
- Number is permanent; certificate may need renewal
TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero)
- Physical residence card
- Required for non-EU citizens living in Spain 6+ months
- Plastic card with photo and NIE number
- Valid as long as your residence permit
Do You Need Both?
Living in Spain (non-EU): You get an NIE during your visa process. After arrival, you apply for the TIE card.
Business dealings only: Just the NIE number. No TIE needed.
EU citizens follow a different system (registration certificate, not TIE).
Common Mix-Up
People say “I need my NIE” when they mean the TIE card. The NIE number comes with your visa. The TIE card is obtained after you arrive.