The Foreigner Identity Card (known in Spain as the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero or TIE) is what you will need if you’re staying in Spain for more than six months.
Think of it as your official “I belong here” card.
If you are staying less than 180 days: good news, your visa will cover the whole trip. No TIE needed.
If you are staying more than 180 days (for studies, work, non-lucrative residence, etc.): your visa only works for the first 90 days. You will then have one month from the day you arrive to apply for a TIE at the Immigration Office or local Police Station.
The TIE proves you are in Spain legally, shows your ID, and confirms the permission you have been given to stay longer than six months.
Where to Apply
- Apply in person at the Immigration Office or Police Station in your province (specifically the Documentation Unit of the National Police).
- Book an appointment online through the Public Administration website.
Children must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or someone officially authorised, who will need to show valid ID.
Who needs a TIE card?
UK nationals living in Spain before the Brexit transitional period: You keep the same residence rights as under EU law.
UK nationals arriving after the transitional period: You are considered a third‑country national. This means you’ll need to apply for residence under Spain’s general immigration rules unless a special mobility arrangement applies.
💡 Tip: If you are applying for the first time, you must submit your application within three months of arrival (or within three months of a child’s birth if applying for them).
Applying for the TIE
The process depends on whether you already hold a residence certificate or not.
You have a temporary Residence Certificate (Under 5 Years)
- Apply directly at an authorised police station.
- The TIE you receive will be valid for 5 years and marked as “Temporary”.
You have a temporary Residence Certificate (Over 5 Years)
- Apply at the police station.
- After verification, you will receive a TIE valid for 10 years, marked “Permanent”.
You already hold a permanent Residence Certificate
- Apply at the police station.
- You will be issued a 10‑year Permanent TIE.
You do not hold a Residence Certificate
- Apply first at your local Immigration Office (in the province where you live or plan to live).
- Once approved, go to the authorised police station to collect your TIE.
Documents needed for a TIE card
For those already holding a Residence Certificate:
- Valid passport (original + copy of the data page)
- Certificate of registration (padrón) from the Town Hall (issued within the last 3 months if your address has changed)
- One recent photo (passport‑size, color, white background)
- Completed EX‑23 form
- EU citizen’s residence certificate (original + copy)
- Proof of payment for the fee (Modelo 790, code 012)
For those not holding a Residence Certificate
- Valid passport (all pages)
- EX‑20 application form
- Certificate of registration (padrón)
- NIE number (if already issued)
- Additional requirements vary:
If you are retired:
- Form S1 from your country’s health/social security office
- Spanish bank certificate showing the required balance and recent payments
If you are not working:
- Private medical insurance
- Spanish bank certificate with proof of minimum funds
If you are employed:
- Certificate of employment history (vida laboral)
- Work contract
- Proof of monthly income
If you are self‑employed (autónomo):
- Employment history (must show at least 3 months of registration)
- Tax forms (Modelo 036/037 and Modelo 130 showing minimum income)
💡 Tip: Don’t wait until the last minute. Spanish bureaucracy moves at its own pace, and it is usually not in a hurry.
