Post-Approval Steps for Spanish Residence Permits and TIE Issuance
To finalize legalization after receiving Spanish residence approval, applicants must attend a fingerprinting appointment at a police station to obtain their physical Foreigner Identity Card (TIE). As of 2025, the process requires a €16.08 administrative fee and a personal appearance. While the TIE typically arrives within 45 days, the entire relocation process can be completed in as little as 6 weeks, putting residents on a 5-year path toward permanent residency.
How do I get my physical Spanish residence card (TIE)?
Applicants must book a personal appointment, known as a Cita previa, at a police station within their province of residence to submit fingerprints.
Appointments are booked through the Official State Administration Portal. The specific procedure name varies by region:
| Region | Procedure Name to Select |
|---|---|
| Madrid | Policía – Expedición de tarjetas cuya autorización resuelve la Dirección General de Migraciones |
| Barcelona | Policía – Expedición de tarjetas cuya autorización resuelve la Dirección General de Migraciones OR Policía – Toma de huella |
| All Other Provinces | Policía – Toma de huella |
What documents are required for the fingerprinting appointment?
Applicants must bring a complete dossier of identification and proof of payment to the police station. Regulations generally require submission within 30 calendar days of receiving approval.
Required documents include:
* MI-TIE Form: A completed and signed form for every family member, including children under 6.
* Valid Passport: The original physical document.
* Approval Letter: A printed copy of the residence approval notification.
* Photo: One "Foto DNI/Carnet" measuring 32x26 mm.
* Tasa 790-012 Receipt: Proof of payment for the government administration fee.
How much is the Spanish residence card fee?
The administrative fee for the first issuance of a TIE is €16.08 as of 2025.
The payment form must be completed online via the Official Police Portal. When filling out the form, select the option: "TIE que documenta la primera concesión de la autorización de residencia temporal, de estancia o para trabajadores transfronterizos." Fees must be paid in advance at a bank counter or an ATM.
Is proof of registration (empadronamiento) required?
Registration requirements vary depending on the province and the consistency of the applicant's address.
* Madrid and Barcelona: Registration is not required if the address is the same as the one provided in the original residence application.
* Valencia, Alicante, Málaga, and Tenerife: Official policy requires proof of registration, though some stations may allow exceptions.
* Reus (Tarragona): Applicants from any province are accepted without registration for appointments scheduled after 3:00 PM.
How long does it take to receive the TIE?
The physical TIE card is generally issued within 45 days of the fingerprinting appointment.
Collection Procedures
* In-Person Requirement: Cards must be collected by the applicant; collection via power of attorney is prohibited.
Second Appointment: In major cities like Madrid or Barcelona, a separate appointment is required for collection. Look for the procedure: Policía – Recogida de tarjeta de identidad de extranjero (TIE)*.
* Additional Requirements: While the process ends for digital nomads upon card collection, freelancers (autónomos) must also register and contribute to the Spanish social security system.
Source: https://el-relocator.com/blog-en/i-got-my-spanish-residence-approved-whats-next