NIE & TIE (Foreigner ID) Process Guidance

Every international student in Spain is required to obtain a Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) and, for long-term stays, a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).
At C3S Business School, we guide our students through each step of the process—ensuring a smooth, legal, and stress-free registration.

What Are NIE and TIE?

NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero)

A personal identification number assigned to foreigners in Spain. It is required for all legal, financial, and administrative purposes (such as opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, or working).

TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero)

A physical residence card containing your photo, NIE number, and residency details. It must be obtained if your stay in Spain exceeds 6 months.

Step-by-Step Process

Our Student Support and Visa & Residency Team guides students through every step of the bank account opening process:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before booking your appointment, ensure you have the following documents ready:

Passport – Original and copy (all pages with information).
Visa – Original student visa stamped in your passport.
Admission Letter / Enrollment Certificate – Issued by C3S Business School.
Empadronamiento Certificate – Proof of local address registration.
EX-17 Form – Application form for TIE (to be filled in Spanish).
Payment Proof of Tax Fee (Modelo 790, Código 012) – Printed and paid at any Spanish bank.
Health Insurance Proof – Showing coverage throughout your stay in Spain.
Passport-sized Photos – Recent, white background, biometric style.

Step 2: Fill the Forms

EX-17 Form

Application for the TIE card. You can download it from the official immigration website: https://extranjeros.inclusion.gob.es

Modelo 790, Código 012

Payment form for the TIE issuance fee. Fill it online, print it, and pay at a local bank (approx. €15–20).

Step 3: Book an Appointment

Appointments for NIE/TIE can be made online through the Spanish Immigration Office website: administracionespublicas/icpplus
Choose:

Province

Barcelona

Procedure

Policía – Toma de huellas (Expedición de Tarjeta)

Bring your documents and payment proof to your scheduled appointment.

Step 4: Fingerprints & Card Collection

During your appointment, you’ll provide fingerprints and photographs.

After 30–40 days, you can collect your TIE card from the same police station where you submitted your documents.

C3S Student Support Assistance

Our Student Support Department provides:

Need Help with Your Application?

Email our Visa & Residency Support Team at studentservices@csss.es to schedule personalized assistance.