How to get a TIE card in Spain in 2025?

Ukrainians in Spain can obtain or extend temporary protection, which is valid until 4 March 2027. However, a TIE identity card is also required to reside in this country. Find out how to obtain or extend it if you already have one

An insurance policy is a guarantee of your safety and peaceful stay outside Ukraine

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According to current Spanish legislation, the TIE card (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero – Foreign Identity Card) is a mandatory document for foreigners who have obtained a residence permit or temporary residence in Spain. It confirms your legal status as a resident in the country, regardless of the reasons for your emigration – study, employment, long-term tourism or temporary protection.

Obtaining a TIE card is regulated by Law 4/2000 of 11 January on the rights and freedoms of foreigners in Spain and their social integration, as well as its Regulations, approved by Royal Decree 557/2011 of 20 April.

If you plan to obtain temporary protection status in Spain, we recommend that you consult a qualified lawyer in advance. Emigration to each country has its own characteristics, so having detailed instructions will not be superfluous. Visit Ukraine specialists will help you cross the Spanish border, prepare a package of documents or in case of refusal to obtain temporary protection.

How to obtain a TIE card in Spain?

Step 1. Obtain a visa or residence permit

The TIE card is issued only after you have already obtained a visa (e.g., a student visa, work visa, digital nomad visa, or visa without the right to work) or a residence permit for Spain. The TIE is proof of this permit.

➤ Follow the link and find out if you need a visa for Spain.

Step 2. Apply for a TIE within 30 days

You must apply for a TIE card within 30 calendar days of:

– your entry into Spain with a visa that allows you to obtain a TIE;

– receiving notification that you have been granted a residence/stay permit.

➤ All opportunities for legalisation in Spain on the Visit Ukraine portal.

Step 3. Collect the necessary documents

The following documents are usually required to apply for a TIE:

1. Completed application form EX-17 (Solicitud de Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero - TIE).

2. Your valid passport and copies of all pages of your passport, as well as the pages with your visa and entry stamp to Spain.

3. Proof of residence/stay permit (e.g., the resolution granting you a residence permit or visa).

4. Proof of payment of the state fee (Tasa Modelo 790, código 012): you must download and complete form 790, code 012, pay the fee at a bank and obtain a receipt; the amount of the fee may vary depending on the type of permit.

5. One colour photograph measuring 32 x 26 mm, taken full face, against a light background, without headgear (unless required for religious reasons).

6. Registration certificate (Certificado de Empadronamiento): proof of your registration at your place of residence in Spain, which can be obtained from the local town hall (Ayuntamiento) – this can usually be a rental agreement or a document confirming your right of residence.

➤ Make sure that you can apply for temporary protection in Spain after leaving another country.

It is very important to take out medical insurance before you move. Although you can purchase insurance directly in Spain, this often leads to unforeseen difficulties. For example, misunderstanding the nuances of Spanish law or difficulties with translating documents.

That is why we strongly recommend taking out medical insurance in advance with a Ukrainian company. This will allow you to feel more confident and avoid unnecessary hassle upon arrival.

➤ List of categories of persons for whom insurance for entry into Spain is mandatory.

➤ Important information on how to get medical assistance in Spain.

Step 4. Make an appointment (cita previa)

To submit your documents for a TIE, you must make an appointment at the Oficina de Extranjería (Foreigners' Office) or at the National Police station (Comisaría de Policía) that deals with foreigners in your area of residence. Appointments can be made online.

➤ Cost of living in Spain – prices for transport, healthcare and food.

Step 5. Submitting documents and fingerprints

On the appointed day, you must come to the appointment with all the necessary documents. Your fingerprints will be taken.

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Step 6. Obtaining a temporary confirmation

After submitting your documents, you may be issued a temporary document confirming your application, which can serve as proof that your TIE is being processed.

Step 7. Collecting your TIE card

Usually, after a few weeks (the time may vary), you will need to return to the same police station or immigration office to collect your TIE card. You will usually be notified when it is ready, or you can check yourself (often by phone, as online tracking is not always available). When you receive your TIE, you will need to present your passport and temporary document, if issued.

➤ Advantages of obtaining a Digital Nomad visa in Spain.

What do you need to know about obtaining temporary protection in Spain?

1. The TIE is proof of your legal resident status, but its validity depends on the type and duration of your residence/stay permit. Once your permit expires, the TIE also becomes invalid and needs to be renewed along with your permit.

2. Not having a valid TIE can result in fines or other complications with your immigration status.

3. The TIE card is an identity document for foreigners and allows you to carry out various legal and administrative procedures in Spain (opening a bank account, signing rental agreements, accessing medical services, etc.), as well as travel within the Schengen area (in accordance with the rules of the Schengen Agreement).

➤ Emigration to Spain for Ukrainians – everything you need to know.

Remember that to enter Spain, you must have international car insurance ‘Green Card’. You can purchase it at any time on the Visit Ukraine portal.

➤ Driver's guide to Spain – traffic rules, fines and toll roads.

➤ Compulsory car insurance in Spain – information for Ukrainian drivers.

Reminder! We previously reported that Spain has decided to restrict the purchase of property by non-resident foreigners from countries outside the European Union.

Photo: generated by Gemini

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