TIE — Foreigner Identity Card

The TIE is the physical document proving that you live in Spain legally. You apply for it once an authorisation has been granted (residence, residence and work, studies, international protection…) or when you are the family member of an EU citizen whose card has been granted.

The procedure consists of booking a "fingerprints" appointment at an Immigration Office or National Police station, handing in the documents and collecting the card a few days or weeks later.

• Foreign nationals granted a stay or residence authorisation for more than six months.
• Also to renew, duplicate (loss, theft, damage or change of details) or update the card.

• The authorisation must be granted and notified (or the residence visa stamped, if you entered with a visa).
• Apply for the card within one month of entering Spain or of being notified that it was granted.

• Official form EX-17, completed and signedIn duplicate (original and copy) if you file it on paper. Always download it from the Ministry website so you use the current version.Official link
• Full passport, validA copy of every written page (including blank ones if the office asks for them) plus the original for checking. Many procedures require at least 4 months of validity.
• Proof of payment of fee form 790 code 012It is generated and filled in on the official fee website, paid at a bank or online, and submitted as the stamped copy.Official link
• Three recent colour passport-size photographsPlain white background, front view, no dark glasses or clothing that prevents identification (32 x 26 mm).
• Decision granting the authorisationOr the residence visa with the Spanish (Schengen) entry stamp.
• Municipal registration certificate (empadronamiento)if applicableMany offices ask for it as proof of address. Check the information sheet for your province.
• Previous cardif applicableFor renewals and duplicates. If it was stolen or lost, the police report.

Always download the form from the Ministry website: the templates are updated and offices reject outdated versions.

Amounts are updated periodically: the one shown when you generate form 790 is the one in force.

• Application: within one month of entering Spain or of being notified that it was granted.
• Collection: usually 20 to 45 days after the fingerprints appointment, depending on the police station.
• Validity: the same as the authorisation granted.

• National Police electronic officeOfficial information on the issuing of cards.
• Appointment bookingBook the fingerprints appointment.
• Fee 790 code 012Generate and pay the card fee.