Spain · TIE
How to get your TIE (foreigner identity card)
Non-EU residents get a physical residence card, the TIE, after arriving in Spain. Book a fingerprint appointment within 30 days, bring form EX-17 and your documents, then collect your card.
What the TIE is
The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is the physical ID card for non-EU citizens living in Spain. It shows your NIE, your type of residence and its expiry date. Carry it instead of your passport for most day-to-day things.
Who needs it
Non-EU citizens staying in Spain for more than six months with a residence visa or authorization. That includes work, study, digital nomad, non-lucrative and family visas.
Deadline
Apply within 30 days of entering Spain with your visa, or of your residence being approved if you applied from inside Spain. Book your appointment as soon as you arrive, because slots can take weeks.
Before you start
You'll need:
- Your passport (original) plus a copy of the photo page and the visa page.
- Form EX-17, filled in and signed.
- One recent passport photo (colour, white background).
- Your residence authorization or visa, and proof of entry (entry stamp or boarding pass) if relevant.
- Your padrón certificate (many offices ask for it).
- Proof you paid the fee with form 790, code 012.
Steps
- Book a fingerprint appointment (toma de huellas) on the government's appointment website, in the province where you live.
- Fill in form EX-17. Choose "first card" as the type of application.
- Fill in and pay form 790 code 012, choosing the first-issue TIE option. The form shows the amount. Pay at a bank and keep the stamped copy.
- Go to the appointment. The officer checks your documents and takes your fingerprints. Keep the receipt (resguardo) you're given: it proves your application is in progress.
- Collect your card, usually about a month later, at the same office. Some offices need a separate collection appointment.
Cost
One fee paid with form 790 code 012. The amount is shown on the form.
Common pitfalls
- Don't miss the 30-day deadline; book before you even arrive if you can.
- Photo rules are strict: recent, white background, no glasses glare.
- Bring copies of every document.
- Keep the resguardo safe. Together with your passport, it covers you while the card is being made.
When to ask a helper
If your visa type is unusual, you've missed the deadline, or your appointment keeps getting cancelled, ask someone who got their TIE in your province recently.
Spot a mistake?
Rules change and offices differ. If something here is wrong or out of date, tell us and we'll check it.