Glossary of Spanish immigration terms
NIE, TIE, cita previa and the rest — explained in plain English.
NIE
Número de Identidad de Extranjero — the unique identification number Spain assigns to foreigners.
TIE
Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero — the physical residence card for non-EU citizens.
Cita previa
The mandatory prior appointment you must hold to be attended at most Spanish public offices.
Empadronamiento
Registration on the municipal roll (padrón) at your address in Ibiza.
EX-15
The official application form for the NIE.
EX-17
The official application form for the TIE.
Modelo 790-012
The tax form used to pay the NIE/TIE government fee.
Autónomo
A self-employed worker registered with the Spanish tax and social security systems.
Número de soporte
The support/IXESP reference on your certificate or card, used for online identity verification.
NUSS
Número de la Seguridad Social — your Spanish social security number.
Autorización de regreso
A short-term permit to re-enter Spain while your residence card is expired or in renewal.
Padrón
The municipal register of residents kept by each ayuntamiento (town hall).
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