Guide
NIE assignment vs EU Registration Certificate: the differences
Two different procedures that are often confused. The NIE assignment only gives you a number; the EU Registration Certificate (green NIE) registers you as a resident and includes that number.
Comparison
| NIE assignment | EU Registration Certificate | |
|---|---|---|
| What you get | An identification number only | Resident registration + NIE |
| For whom | Any foreigner, EU or non-EU | EU, EEA and Swiss citizens |
| When | Buying property or a car, inheritance, bank, short-term work, taxes | Living in Spain for more than 3 months |
| Requirement | A financial, professional or social reason | Work, self-employment, studies, or means + health insurance |
| Form | EX-15 | EX-18 |
| Fee | 790-012 · NIE assignment box | 790-012 · registration certificate box |
| Makes you resident | No | Yes |
Which one do I need?
| Your situation | Procedure |
|---|---|
| Buying a home, not living in Spain | NIE assignment |
| Moving to Spain to work | EU Certificate |
| Erasmus or studies over 3 months | EU Certificate |
| Two-month temporary job | NIE assignment |
| Retiring in Spain | EU Certificate |
| Already have an NIE and now staying | EU Certificate (same number) |
I already have an NIE. Do I also need the EU Certificate?
Yes, if you will live in Spain for more than three months. Your NIE number stays the same.
Can I apply for the EU Certificate without an NIE?
Yes. The NIE is assigned with the certificate itself.
Does the NIE number expire?
No. The number is personal and for life.
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