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 a month of arriving, 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 one month of entering Spain with your visa, or of your residence being granted if you applied from inside Spain (for a work authorisation, from the day you join Social Security). 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 one-month 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.