What Is the TIE?
The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is a biometric plastic card (ID-1 format) that certifies a foreigner’s legal status in Spain. It includes your NIE number, fingerprints, and the validity period of your residence permit. Since 2020, the TIE has fully replaced paper-based permits.
Key Benefits of the TIE in 2025
- Hassle-free movement across internal Schengen borders
- Right to open a bank account, sign employment contracts, apply for a mortgage
- EES-ready: TIE holders are exempt from additional biometric scans at the border
Who Needs a TIE?
| Category | Mandatory | Document Issued Instead of / Alongside TIE |
|---|---|---|
| Third-country nationals | Mandatory | TIE |
| EU / EEA citizens | Green certificate required if staying > 3 months; biometric TIE recommended | Green certificate + optional biometric TIE |
How to Get a TIE as a Third-country National: Step-by-Step in 2025
- Obtain a positive decision on your residence or work permit.
- Prepare your documents:
- Completed EX-17 form
- Original and copy of your passport
- One color photo (26×32 mm)
- Proof of address (empadronamiento) — required in some provinces
- Paid fee receipt 790-012 (≈ €16 in 2025)
- Book a Cita Previa appointment (Policía Nacional / Oficina de Extranjeros) via sede.policia.gob.es
- Submit your fingerprints and documents in person
- Pick up your card 30–45 days later with the receipt
Validity and Renewal
- Temporary TIE: valid for the same period as your initial residence permit (usually 1–2 years)
- Renewal: apply 60 days before expiry or up to 90 days after — late renewals may incur fines up to €500
- Permanent TIE (larga duración): after 5 years of legal residence, the first card is valid for 5 years; subsequent renewals are valid for 10 years
How EU Citizens Can Get a TIE Equivalent
- Registration certificate (green paper) is mandatory for stays over 3 months. To apply, you’ll need a passport, proof of employment/income or self-employment, and health insurance.
- Biometric TIE (optional): Increasingly offered by Spanish regions as a plastic replacement for the green paper. More convenient for car rentals, banking, and EES transition. Use EX-23 form; fee ≈ €12
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work without a TIE if my visa is still valid?
No. A visa grants entry, but legal employment is only allowed once the TIE is issued.
How long does it take to get a TIE?
The average processing time is 4–6 weeks from submission, depending on the region.
Do I need to update my TIE if I change address?
No. Just notify the Comisaría de Policía in your new place of residence.
Conclusion
The TIE isn’t just a foreigner’s ID card — it’s your gateway to full integration, legal employment, and digital services in Spain. Ready to apply stress-free?
Official Sources
- Boletín Oficial del Estado — Real Decreto 557/2011: Regulation for Ley Orgánica 4/2000 (on foreigners)
- Boletín Oficial del Estado — Real Decreto 240/2007: Entry and Residence Rules for EU Citizens
- Ministerio de Inclusión — Info Sheet 107 “Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero”
- Ministerio de Inclusión — Form EX-17 (TIE application)
- Ministerio de Inclusión — Form EX-23 (Biometric TIE for EU citizens)
- Administraciones Públicas — Cita Previa Extranjería (Online Appointment)
- Policía Nacional — Tasa 790 Code 012 (Card Fee Payment)
- EUR-Lex — Regulation (EU) 2017/2226: Entry/Exit System (EES)