TIE in Spain

The Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero is a physical identity card issued to foreign nationals in qualifying legal situations in Spain. It records identity information and the basis and validity of the holder's status.

The card normally contains the holder's NIE, but the NIE number and TIE card are different concepts.

The Ministry of the Interior sets the rule carefully: foreign nationals who have been issued a visa or authorization to remain in Spain for more than six months have the right and duty to obtain the card. A TIE is also requested for renewals, changes of status or card data, and replacement after theft, loss, destruction or damage.

Not every visa, authorization or stay leads to a TIE. The type and duration of the approved status must be checked first.

For cases covered by the official rule, the application is personal and must generally be made within one month from entry into Spain, or from the date the authorization is granted or becomes effective, depending on the case and any applicable Social Security registration.

There is no universal deadline that fits every possible immigration route.

Documentation varies by authorization and police unit. Core items listed by the Ministry for an initial application:

• The official TIE application form, completed and signed.
• A valid passport or travel document and evidence of entry where required.
• A recent colour identity photograph with a white background.
• The visa, where applicable.
• The approval resolution where required for the relevant category.
• Proof that the applicable administrative fee has been paid.
• Proof of Social Security affiliation or registration where applicable.

The police may require the original documents for verification. The exact appointment pack depends on the authorization.

1. Confirm that the approved authorization requires a TIE.
2. Check the deadline and instructions in the approval or visa documentation.
3. Book the appropriate Police documentation appointment in the province where you live.
4. Prepare the form, passport, photograph, fee and authorization-specific evidence.
5. Attend personally. Fingerprints and identity checks form part of the card-issuance process.
6. Follow the collection instructions given by the Police unit.

A new card may be required after renewal of the underlying authorization, a change of status or card data, or theft, loss, destruction or damage.

For a lost or stolen card, the Ministry lists the report of loss or theft, valid passport or travel document, a recent photograph and payment of the corresponding fee among the required documents. If the address has changed, updated padrón evidence may also be requested.

• Booking a TIE appointment before the underlying authorization is approved.
• Assuming every stay of any duration requires a card.
• Confusing the card's expiry date with the NIE number.
• Bringing a generic checklist without checking the approval category.
• Missing the applicable deadline because the approval notice was not reviewed.

• Ministry of the Interior — Tarjeta de identidad de extranjero
• Ministry of the Interior — foreign-national application forms

Requirements can differ according to the authorization and Police unit. Check the approval notice and competent office before attending.