Glossary of Important Terms

Here you will find a list of the key concepts you need to know to understand the bureaucracy in Barcelona.

NIE (Foreigner Identity Number)

The basic identification number for foreigners in Spain. It is necessary for almost everything: opening a bank account, renting a flat, buying a car, etc.

TIE (Foreigner Identity Card)

The physical card that proves your legal residence in Spain if you are a non-EU citizen.

EU Citizen Registration Certificate

Also known as the "Green NIE". It is the document that EU citizens obtain to reside legally for more than 3 months.

Empadronamiento (Padrón)

The registration in the municipal census. It proves that you live at a specific address in Barcelona. It is the first step for almost any administrative procedure.

Cita Previa

The mandatory appointment that you must request online to attend any public office (Foreigners Office, City Hall, Police).

Modelo 790-012

The standard form for paying administrative fees related to immigration procedures.

Social Security (Affiliation Number)

The number needed to work and access the public health system.

CatSalut (TSI)

The Individual Health Card that gives you access to health centers (CAP) and public hospitals in Catalonia.