Relocating to a new country offers a unique opportunity to make a transformative change in both your personal and professional life. Embracing this experience with preparation and enthusiasm can be extremely rewarding.
However, moving to Spain from 2025 also requires being well-informed about the legal and administrative procedures necessary to live here legally and comfortably.
What is the Spanish TIE card?
The TIE or Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjeros (Foreigners’ Identity Card) is a unique and exclusive document that accredits the legal stay in Spain for non-EU citizens (i.e., from countries outside the European Union) who have a residence permit for more than six months, or for all foreigners with a long-term residence permit.
According to official Spanish regulations, foreigners planning to stay longer than six months must:
- Register with Social Security, essential for healthcare access and any potential employment.
- Find and register a residence, securing a rental or purchase agreement and officially registering your address.
- Apply for the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero), the Foreigner Identity Card mandatory for long-term residents.
Being aware of these steps in advance ensures a smooth transition and helps you enjoy your life in Spain without administrative complications.
Why do you need a TIE in Spain?
If you are a non-EU citizen planning to live in Spain for more than six months, whether to study, work, or join your family, you should apply for the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero / Foreigner Identity Card).
You will need it for:
- Opening a bank account
- Signing a rental contract
- Enrolling at a university or school
- Accessing public health care
- Proving your legal residence when travelling
This card is not just a formality. It is your official proof of legal residence in Spain. Without the TIE, your stay could be considered irregular. Even with a Spanish student visa, you are not fully documented until you hold this card.
What is the difference between the NIE and the TIE?
Many newcomers confuse NIE and TIE, but they are not the same.
- The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is just a number. It is like a tax or ID number used for all administrative procedures. You can have a NIE without living in Spain.
- The TIE is a physical residence card. It contains your NIE, your photo, fingerprints, and your type of permit.
Document | What it is | Validity | Format |
NIE | Identification number for foreigners | Permanent | Number only |
TIE | Foreigner’s Identity Card | Depends on visa/permit | Plastic card |
Who must apply for a TIE?
You need a TIE if you are a non-EU citizen and:
- You hold a student visa longer than 180 days.
- You have a work contract or residence permit valid for more than six months.
- You are joining family members already living legally in Spain.
- You are renewing or modifying your residence permit.
- Your card has been stolen, lost, or damaged.
Important. If you come with children, they also need a TIE if you will live in Spain for more than six months.
Step-by-step: How to apply for a TIE in Spain
Step 1: Book an appointment online
Applications are managed through the Spanish Government’s official website:
- Choose your province.
- Select “Policía – Toma de huellas (expedición de tarjeta)”
- Pick the police station closest to your residence.
Important: Appointments are scarce. Many applicants check daily, especially early in the morning. Persistence is key.
Step 2: Prepare the required documents
Prepare your documents in advance to avoid mistakes. You will need:
- Original and copy of your passport
- Completed EX-17 form (available here)
- Three passport photos (white background, 3×4 cm)
- Copy of your visa or residence permit approval letter
- Proof of Social Security registration (if you are employed)
- Payment receipt of the Modelo 790 – Code 012 fee (available here)
Step 3: Pay the application fee
Before your appointment, pay the Tasa 790 – Code 012.
As of 2025, the official fees are:
- First TIE concession: 15,45 €
- Renewal or extension: 18,54 €
- Residence for exceptional circumstances: 15,45 €
- Long-term residence: 21,02 €
Important: You can complete the form online and then pay at a bank. Always bring the stamped receipt.
Step 4: Attend your appointment
On the day of the appointment, take:
- All required documents.
- Proof of fee payment.
- Passport and visa.
At the police station, they will:
- Verify your documents.
- Take your fingerprints.
- Give you a temporary receipt (resguardo).
Important: This resguardo proves your legal stay while you wait for your TIE.
Step 5: Collect your TIE
Your card is usually ready within 30–45 days.
- You will need to book another appointment online for collection.
- Bring your resguardo and your passport.
- Collection is always personal. Nobody else can do it for you.
Common problems with the TIE process
- No appointments available: Check daily, especially in the morning. Try different browsers or devices.
- Rejected photos: Make sure they follow Spanish DNI photo rules. No shadows, white background, correct size.
- Delays in processing: Keep your resguardo with you at all times.
- Lost or stolen card: File a police report and request a new TIE as soon as possible.
Common questions about the TIE in Spain
Where to apply for the TIE?
You must apply at the local Foreigner’s Office or a police station with a foreigners’ office. Appointments are required and can be booked online through the official government portal. Following the official procedure ensures your application is processed smoothly.
Can I apply for the TIE in Madrid, Barcelona or Valencia?
Yes, these major cities have dedicated offices for TIE applications and renewals. Because demand is high, it’s important to book your appointment well in advance.
How long does it take to get the TIE?
Processing usually takes 30–45 days after your appointment. Meanwhile, the resguardo receipt serves as proof of legal residence.
How long does the TIE in Spain last?
The TIE duration depends on your visa. Student TIE’s usually last the length of your studies plus three months, while other residence permits may last from 1 to 5 years.
How much does the TIE cost?
Fees typically range from €15 to €21, paid via tax form 790 before your appointment. Keep the receipt, as it is needed for the card issuance.
Do I need to prove my Spanish level to get the TIE?
Usually, you don’t need to prove your Spanish to get the TIE.
However, if you are planning to study a university degree in Spanish, the institution may require a DELE certificate or a placement test, which could be requested during your registration process.
Always check with your school to ensure you meet any language requirements.
Why Españolé and Valencia are the perfect choice for your study experience
Now that you know how to get your TIE, it’s time for the most exciting part: choosing your Spanish school in Spain.
And we’re here to make that decision easy. Here’s why Españolé and Valencia are the perfect fit for your study journey.
Valencia: affordable, welcoming, and full of life
Valencia is one of the most affordable and student-friendly cities in Spain. With Mediterranean beaches, incredible food, over 300 days of sunshine a year, and a laid-back vibe, it’s no wonder so many international students fall in love with it.
It’s more budget-friendly than Madrid or Barcelona, but just as rich in culture, opportunity, and educational quality. Discover more about Valencia as your study destination.
The Españolé experience: built around you
At Españolé, everything, from our methodology and support services, is designed to complement your visa journey and academic goals:
- Live and learn in the historical centre of Valencia. Our school blends historical character with modern facilities: bright classrooms, sunny terraces, and communal spaces where learning feels natural and engaging.
- Native teachers, real-life Spanish. Our instructors are native speakers with deep academic experience. Lessons are dynamic and interactive, focused on real-world Spanish you can use right away.
- Culture and connection beyond the classroom. We organize daily cultural activities: city tours, cooking classes, language exchanges, museum visits, and beach outings that immerse you in local life and practice Spanish naturally every day.
- Personalized visa and academic guidance. From helping you prepare your Spain student visa to guiding you on TIE registration once you’re here, our admissions team supports your entire transition.
- Flexible Spanish + University Pathway Programs. Whether you’re prepping for a student visa, DELE exam, or university entry (PAU or PCE), our pathway programs offer tailored training in both academic Spanish and test strategy, with small classes and individual mentoring.
- Trusted accreditation and high student satisfaction. Españolé is accredited by the Instituto Cervantes, International House, and IALC, ensuring quality standards. Our students consistently report rapid progress, cultural bonding, and confidence to continue their academic journey.
“Getting my TIE made settling in Spain hassle-free, and studying for the DELE at Españolé improved my Spanish quickly.” – Anne from Sweden
Start your life in Spain with your right foundation
Applying for a TIE in Spain is just the beginning. To thrive at university, and study Spanish in Valencia, you’ll need more than paperwork. You need the language skills, confidence, and cultural understanding to make the most of your experience.
That’s where Españolé makes a difference. Our Spanish course for university entrance helps international students master Spanish, prepare for the PAU exam, and feel fully supported every step of the way.
From administrative procedures to immersive learning, we’ve got your back. Want help choosing the right program or have questions about the next steps? – Get in touch with us!
