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Guided preparationDepends on your situation

TIE identity card

Prepare the card stage after residence authorization, including fingerprints, renewal or replacement.

Responsible authority

Policía Nacional

Rule level

España

Application route

online, in person, appointment may be required

Last reviewed

September 20, 2026

What is this for?

This prepares a physical card application, not the initial grant or renewal of residence rights. Replacing a card does not extend the underlying authorization.

When can it be useful?

  • Prepare the card stage after residence authorization, including fingerprints, renewal or replacement.

Where do I arrange it?

  • Ministerio del Interior: Tarjeta de identidad de extranjero
  • Policía Nacional: TIE · formularios y tasa

What may I need first?

  • Municipality / province
  • Has the relevant residence authorization been granted?
  • Card procedure
  • Has your Spanish address changed?

Documents to prepare

  • Current passport and applicable visa/entry evidence.
  • EX-17 for the correct card procedure, with your own details.
  • Granted authorization/resolution or evidence requested for the case.
  • Recent photograph meeting the official specifications, correct 790-012 fee receipt and appointment confirmation.

Practical route

  • Read the authorization decision: confirm card eligibility, effective dates and any conditions still to fulfil.
  • Confirm the correct police appointment and case-specific deadline; first-card deadlines can run from entry or authorization, depending on the case.
  • Download current EX-17, photo requirements and the correct fee option. Check whether Social Security registration evidence is needed.
  • Attend personally for identity checks/fingerprints where applicable; arrange legal representation and attendance requirements for a minor.
  • Keep the collection receipt and ask when, where and with which originals to collect the card.
  • At collection, check name, NIE and validity. Ask separately about travel while the card is pending; a receipt does not establish re-entry permission.

What comes next?

  • Keep the old/new card history and collection evidence.
  • Track the authorization expiry as well as the card expiry; report errors through the issuing office.

Important to check

Preparation aid, not an official form or decision. The competent authority confirms eligibility, required evidence, fees and the outcome. Items marked for confirmation remain unresolved.

Official sources

SpainForm records the authority and review date so this content can be checked and updated manually.