Moving to Spain is exciting, but we know that all the paperwork can get a little overwhelming. If you’re ready to get started on your move to Spain, one of the most important things you’ll need to stay long-term is a TIE card.
As someone who’s helped hundreds of clients settle into life in Spain, I know how confusing the process can seem – especially with so many acronyms flying around. This guide breaks it all down: what a TIE is, who needs one, how to apply, and what to expect at each step.
Melanie Radford, of My Lawyer in Spain explains more about the TIE process in Spain.
The Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) is the official ID card issued to non-EU nationals who are legally resident in Spain. It proves your immigration status and shows what you're allowed to do in Spain – such as live, work, or study.
You’ll only receive a TIE after your visa is approved and you’ve entered Spain. For example, if you’ve secured a non-lucrative visa or a digital nomad visa, the TIE is the physical residency card that follows.
The TIE is not the same as an NIE.
People often confuse the two because the NIE number (your Spanish tax ID) appears on your TIE card. But while the NIE is just a number, the TIE is a full biometric ID card – with your photo, fingerprints, and legal status.
Your TIE card includes:
It’s your all-in-one proof of legal residence in Spain and is often required for tasks like opening a bank account, registering for healthcare, or signing a rental contract.
Holding a TIE card comes with important legal and practical benefits. It’s not just an ID – it’s proof that you’re officially recognised by the Spanish immigration system.
With a TIE card, you can:
Your TIE card is your all-access pass to everyday life in Spain. Without it, even basic tasks can become difficult or delayed.
If you're a non-EU national staying in Spain for more than 90 days on a long-term visa, you’ll need a TIE.
Common visa types that trigger the TIE requirement:
Once you enter Spain with your visa, you have 30 days to apply for your TIE.
Here’s what you’ll need to bring when applying:
You’ll also need a copy of the visa approval stamp page in your passport. For most clients, I recommend preparing at least one full copy of every document – including your passport – just in case.
Once you’ve arrived in Spain, your next step is booking a cita previa (appointment) at the national police office.
Step-by-step guide:
In busy provinces like Madrid or Málaga, appointments book up quickly. I recommend checking early in the morning or often more appointments/cancellations appear sporadically throughout the day. It is a frustrating process in these busy provinces to find an appointment but by checking often, you’re more likely to grab one.
At the appointment, you will:
The card itself won’t be issued on the spot. It takes around 45 days to arrive, as TIE cards are produced centrally in Madrid and then sent out to your local police station.
When your card is ready, you’ll return to the same police station to collect it.
Bring your resguardo, passport, and visa-stamped passport page again.
Waiting times vary by region, but 30–45 days is typical.
Check your card carefully for errors when you receive it. If anything’s incorrect, report it immediately.
It depends on the type of visa your TIE is linked to. For example:
Your TIE card confirms your status. The visa allows entry – the TIE proves what you’re allowed to do once you’re here.
Application fee (Modelo 790): approx. €16
1 year (non-lucrative or work visas)
3–5 years (renewals or long-term residents)
You’ll renew the TIE, not the NIE – your NIE number stays the same.
When your residency period ends, it’s the TIE card you’ll renew, not the visa. The process is similar to applying the first time but often simpler.
If you lose your TIE:
UK Nationals – Post-Brexit Rules
If you're a UK citizen who moved to Spain before the Brexit deadline, you may have swapped your old green residency card for a Withdrawal Agreement TIE. This TIE confirms your right to reside and work in Spain under EU terms.
Students
Students get a TIE valid for the duration of their studies. It’s renewable and will say whether part-time work is permitted.
Digital Nomads and New Visas (2023–25)
Spain’s new digital nomad visa grants a TIE that authorises remote work from Spain. We’ve already helped dozens of clients through this process – and it’s proving a popular route.
What is a TIE card in Spain used for?
It proves your legal residency and immigration status. It’s required for almost all official processes.
Can I work in Spain with a TIE?
Only if your visa and card state you’re authorised to work. Check the wording on your TIE.
Can I leave Spain while waiting for my TIE?
Technically yes, but re-entering can be complicated without your card. I advise clients to wait until they have it before travelling.
What’s the difference between TIE and NIE in Spain?
The NIE is a number used for tax and identification purposes. The TIE is a physical card proving your residency status – and it includes your NIE.
Do children need a TIE?
Yes – children on dependent visas must also obtain a TIE.
Can I apply for a TIE online?
No, while you can book your appointment online, the fingerprinting and card collection must be done in person.
I’ve lived in Spain for over 20 years and helped hundreds of people apply for their TIEs. Yes – the process can seem bureaucratic, but with the right documents, good timing, and a little guidance, it’s absolutely manageable.
Once you’ve got your TIE, you’re officially on your way to building a life in Spain – whether that’s working, retiring, studying, or enjoying your new home in the sun.
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