Glossary of Spanish immigration terms
NIE, TIE, cita previa and the rest — explained in plain English.
- NIE
- Número de Identidad de Extranjero — the single identification number Spain assigns to each foreigner.
- TIE
- Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero — the residence card non-EU residents hold in hand.
- Cita previa
- The compulsory prior appointment you must hold to be seen at most Spanish public offices.
- Empadronamiento
- Being entered on the municipal roll (padrón) at your address on the island.
- EX-15
- The official form used to apply for the NIE.
- EX-17
- The official form used to apply for the TIE.
- Modelo 790-012
- The tax form on which the NIE/TIE government fee is paid.
- Autónomo
- A self-employed person registered with the Spanish tax and social security authorities.
- Número de soporte
- The support / IXESP reference on your certificate or card, used to verify identity online.
- NUSS
- Número de la Seguridad Social — the Spanish social security number tied to your contributions.
- Autorización de regreso
- A short permit to re-enter Spain while your residence card is expired or renewing.
- Padrón
- The municipal register of residents kept by each ayuntamiento, or town hall.
- Remote filing
- Putting the whole NIE file through from wherever you happen to be, rather than at the Arrecife counter. Private firms such as Gestoraz work this way.
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