The Spanish TIE card: how to get your residence card in 2026
Facts last verified on against 6 sources (5 official). By the Relocate+ team.
Short answer
The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is the card that proves you live in Spain legally. If you've been granted a visa or authorisation to stay longer than six months, you must apply for it in person within one month of entering Spain, or of your authorisation taking effect.[1][2]
You apply at the National Police documentation unit in your province, by appointment. The TIE proves your residence status, not your identity — that's still your passport — and it's valid for as long as your residence authorisation.[1][4]
Key facts at a glance
Who needs a TIE
First TIE after arriving on a visa
Best for: Non-EU nationals who entered Spain with a long-stay visa.
Requirement: Apply personally within one month of entry. Bring the signed application form, your passport with the entry stamp, a recent colour passport photo on a white background, your visa, the fee receipt and, where relevant, proof of Social Security registration.[1]
TIE after an authorisation granted in Spain
Best for: People granted residence while already in Spain.
Requirement: The one-month clock starts when your authorisation is granted or takes effect — for some permits, after Social Security registration.[1]
Renewal or replacement
Best for: Existing TIE holders.
Requirement: Renew in person when your authorisation is renewed. If your card is lost or stolen, apply for a replacement immediately with a police report; it's valid only for the rest of the original period.[1]
Step-by-step timeline
- 1
Before you arrive
Note your one-month deadline
The deadline runs from the day you enter Spain on your visa, or from when your authorisation takes effect. Make sure your passport gets an entry stamp.[1]
- 2
First week
Book a police appointment
Request an appointment (cita previa) at the Oficina de Extranjeros or police station for your province through the public administration's electronic office.[1]
- 3
Before the appointment
Fill in EX-17 and pay the fee
Complete and sign form EX-17 and pay the fee with form 790 code 012. Universidad Complutense de Madrid's guide lists €16.08 for a first card.[6]
- 4
Appointment 1
Submit your application in person
Bring your passport with entry stamp, photo, visa, fee receipt and any documents linked to your permit. You must attend yourself.[1][6]
- 5
Appointment 2
Collect your card
You return to the same immigration office for a second appointment to collect the TIE.[6]
- 6
From then on
Carry it and keep it up to date
Carry your TIE and show it when authorities ask. Report changes of address, nationality or family circumstances within one month.[1]
Document checklist
- Application form EX-17, signed (in duplicate)[6][1]
- Passport with your Spanish entry stamp (and a copy)[1][6]
- Recent colour passport photo, white background[1][6]
- Your visa, if you entered on one[1]
- Proof of payment, form 790 code 012[1][6]
- Social Security registration, if your permit requires it[1]
- Padrón certificate under 3 months old, if renewing after a move[1]
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| First TIE (temporary residence)Check the current amount on the National Police fee page before paying. | €16.08[6] |
| Renewal, replacement or change of details | Set by the National Police fee table[1] |
The TIE fee is paid with form 790 code 012. Photos and copies are extra.
Moving with family
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the one-month window. Book your appointment as soon as you arrive.[1]
- No entry stamp. You need your passport stamped on entry, or an entry declaration within 72 hours.[1]
- Using the TIE as ID abroad. It proves your Spanish residence status; your passport remains your identity document.[1]
- Not reporting a move. Changes of address must be reported within one month.[1]
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to apply for a TIE in Spain?
One month from entering Spain, or from when your authorisation is granted or takes effect.[1]
What's the difference between the NIE and the TIE?
The NIE is your personal identification number. The TIE is the physical card that proves you have legal residence in Spain, issued to people with a visa or authorisation of more than six months.[3][1][2]
How much does a TIE cost?
Universidad Complutense de Madrid's guide lists €16.08 for a first card, paid with form 790 code 012. Renewals and replacements have their own fees, so check the National Police fee table.[6][1]
Sources
Every fact on this page links to one of these. Official = government, consulate or official gazette.
- [1] Tarjeta de identidad de extranjero — Ministry of the Interior (Spain)Official · checked 27 October 2026
- [2] Documentación de las personas extranjeras — Ministry of the Interior (Spain)Official · checked 27 October 2026
- [3] Número de Identidad de Extranjero (NIE) — Ministry of the Interior (Spain)Official · checked 27 October 2026
- [4] Application for NIE for international individuals (incl. TIE validity) — Spanish government (one.gob.es)Official · checked 27 October 2026
- [5] NIE (Foreigner Identity Number) — Consulate General of Spain in ManchesterOfficial · checked 27 October 2026
- [6] Tarjeta de identidad como extranjero (TIE) — Universidad Complutense de Madrid · checked 27 October 2026
Immigration rules change often. Always confirm requirements with the consulate or authority that handles your application before you book or pay for anything. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.