TIE Card Spain - Legal Tips
Immigration legal service
If you are a foreign national living in Spain, you may need a TIE card (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero). This card is the official identity document issued to non-Spanish residents and proves that the holder has legal residence in the country.
Our immigration lawyers assist international clients with the application, renewal and legal management of the TIE card in Spain, ensuring that all documentation and procedures are completed correctly.
Apply for your TIE card in Spain with legal assistance
Our lawyers assist with document preparation, appointment management and representation before the immigration authorities, ensuring full compliance with Spanish residency procedures.
Who needs a TIE card?
The TIE card is the official residence document issued to foreign nationals living in Spain. This card contains important information about the resident, including: • Full identity details • NIE number • Type of residence permit • Period of validity of the residence The TIE card serves as proof that the holder has been granted legal residence in Spain for a specific period of time.
What is the TIE card in Spain?
The TIE card is generally required for non-EU citizens who reside in Spain for more than six months. It confirms the holder’s immigration status and allows them to identify themselves before Spanish authorities. Following Brexit, UK nationals residing in Spain under the Withdrawal Agreement may also obtain a TIE card indicating their status as beneficiaries of the agreement.
When must you apply for the TIE card?
If you are applying for the first time, the application must normally be submitted within three months of arriving in Spain. Once the residence authorisation has been granted, the applicant must attend a police station to complete the issuance of the TIE card.
How to apply for the TIE card
Required documents for the TIE card
- Valid passport (original and copy)
- NIE number (if already assigned)
- Application form (EX-23 or EX-20 depending on the procedure)
- Certificate of registration (empadronamiento)
- One passport-sized photo
- Proof of payment of the administrative fee (form 790, code 012)
Applicants with or without a residence certificate
- With a residence certificate: Apply directly at an authorised police station.
- Temporary residence: TIE valid for up to 5 years.
- Permanent residence: TIE valid for 10 years after 5 years of legal residence.
- Without a residence certificate: Apply first at the Immigration Office.
- After approval: Attend the police station to obtain the physical TIE card.
Processing time
If the application meets all the legal requirements, the decision on the residence document is normally issued within a maximum period of three months. After approval, the applicant must attend the police station to provide fingerprints and obtain the TIE card. The validity of the TIE card depends on the type of residence: • Temporary residence: valid for up to 5 years • Permanent residence: valid for 10 years