Here, we explain what the TIE is, what it’s used for, and how to get one—so that you can start your new life in Spain.
Starting from scratch in another country can mean turning your life upside down. You’ve got a fresh environment to explore, professional and personal changes to figure out, and maybe some big hopes and dreams for your new life. Not only that, there are also several important things to worry about when you head abroad to try your luck: valid passport, plane tickets, suitcases—and paperwork.
One of the most important bureaucratic processes you need to go through as a foreigner in Spain—in addition to registering with Social Security, finding a flat, and registering as a resident—is applying for a TIE, an essential document for living in Spain legally.
To save you time, effort, and some of the headache of navigating the bureaucracy before you move to Spain, we’ve put together this guide to the TIE. Plus, we’ll explain what it’s used for and how you can get one. Cut the hassle and get ready to start your life in Spain!
TIE stands for tarjeta de identidad de extranjero, or foreigner ID card. As its name suggests, it’s a document that proves that a foreigner is living legally in Spain. The card includes personal data, a photograph, and the holder’s NIE (número de identidad de extranjero, or foreigner ID number). It also states the type of residence permit that the cardholder has. Although it’s a unique and non-transferable document, it also allows you to register any children under the age of 18 or disabled children, if necessary.
The TIE is simply proof that a foreigner is authorised to live in Spain. Therefore, you should try to always have it on hand in case you have to prove your legal status in Spain.
Despite their similar names, the NIE (foreigner ID number) and the TIE (foreigner ID card) are two completely different documents.
People from a non-EU country who are legally authorised to live in Spain have the right—and obligation—to apply for a TIE (foreigner ID card).
To apply for the TIE, you have to go in person to the immigration office (oficina de extranjería) or to the police station closest to your home. Before you go, you have to request an appointment through the Spanish government’s electronic office.
You have one month from the date of your arrival in the country, the date you receive your residence permit, or the date your residence permit goes into effect to complete the procedure. Remember that you need to have authorisation to stay in the country for more than 6 months to be eligible for a TIE.
Bear in mind that the TIE is valid for the period specified when it was issued. If you lose your right to stay in Spain, your TIE will no longer be valid and you’ll have to hand in the card to the police station or immigration office closest to your place of residence.
To apply for a TIE you must meet one of the following requirements:
You’ll also have to present the following documentation:
If you already have a TIE and it’s about to expire, it’s time to renew it. For this, you’ll have to submit:
As well as the right to remain in the country for more than 6 months, which is granted when your TIE is issued, there are certain obligations you have to fulfil as the holder of a TIE.
Bear in mind that if you fail to follow these obligations, you could be fined in accordance with Organic Law 4/2000, of 11 January. So, take good care of your TIE!
If you have any further questions about the TIE or how to apply for one, please contact us, and one of our team will get in touch to discuss your requirements further.