FAQ — Non-EU citizens
Answers to the questions we hear most from Non-EU citizens settling in Bilbao.
The NIE is your identification number; the TIE is the physical residence card that displays it. Non-EU residents need the TIE.
For stays over 90 days, yes — student, work, family or non-lucrative. The visa is obtained at the Spanish consulate before you travel.
Within 30 days of arriving in Bilbao you book a fingerprint (toma de huellas) appointment, submit the EX-17 and photos, and collect the card a few weeks later. We handle the booking and paperwork.
Yes, with an autorización de regreso, which we can arrange so you can leave and re-enter Spain legally.
Most non-EU residence types require full private health insurance with no copays. We can connect you with compliant policies.
Ready to get your NIE in Bilbao?
Fill in our short application form and we will be in touch within one business day. No queues, no guesswork.