If you’re a non-EU/EEA citizen (Brits that’s us post-Brexit!), and you’re planning to live in Spain long-term, then the TIE is something you’ll definitely need to know about. It’s the official residency card here, and it’s not optional – it’s an essential step in finalising your residency.
It’s a plastic photo ID card that proves you have the right to live here legally. If you’ve been granted a visa or a residency permit, this is the physical proof of it.
Once you arrive in Spain, you’ll need to apply for your TIE in person at your nearest police station (Comisaría). The appointment itself is just one step of the process. After that, you’ll need to wait around 30 to 45 days for the card to be ready for collection.
Your TIE will include:
How long it lasts depends on what kind of visa or residency status you’ve been granted.
This little card is going to become a huge part of your life in Spain. You will need to show it every time you come in and out of Spain at border control so they can see you haven’t overstayed.
It’s more than just a bit of ID – it’s proof that you’re here legally and officially.
If you’ve been living in Spain continuously for five years, you might be eligible for permanent residency. When that happens, your card will be updated to say “PERMANENTE” and depending on your situation, it’ll be valid for either 5 or 10 years.
To qualify for this permanent version, you need to have spent at least five years in Spain without being away for more than 10 months in total, and no single trip out of Spain should have lasted longer than 6 months.
You will need to have qualified and been accepted for residency or a visa beforehand
This has become some what of an olympic sport. Some areas of Spain are more difficult to get appointments in than others. You may need to pay someone to help you. It's easier to do yourself if you have your digital certificate
There are a few forms used for applying for a TIE and it depends where you are in your process which one is applicable to you
You will need to fill out the Tasa 790_012 and pay it online or in a bank and take with you to the appointment
A recent colour photograph, with a white background, size 32x26 millimeters.
Whether you need the full assistance or you just need someone to get the appointment for you but you’re confident collecting the documents yourself, I can help.
Please fill out the form, so we can learn more about you and your needs.