Students from outside the EU: first "TIE" card for non-EU students
The Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) is the official document that identifies foreign nationals in Spain and certifies their legal status in the country. It is a physical document that includes the Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) and certifies legal residence, as well as any permits or authorizations granted, whether for residence, work, or both.
| Who is it for | When to apply | When to apply | Processing time |
| Non-European Union citizens with a residence of more than three months. | Upon arrival, within one month. | Immigration Offices or Police Stations authorized to carry out this procedure. | Issuance: 1 to 2 months. Validity: depends on the type of residence. |
The Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) is the official document that identifies foreign nationals in Spain and certifies their legal status in the country. It is a physical document that includes the Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) and certifies legal residence, as well as any permits or authorizations granted, whether for residence, work, or both.
The TIE is used to:
- Prove legal residence in Spain.
- Officially identify the individual before authorities and public bodies.
- Allow access to services such as bank accounts, employment contracts, healthcare, and other administrative procedures.
- Demonstrate legal status when required.
It is mandatory to carry the TIE at all times and present it when requested by the competent authorities. The procedure must be initiated within 30 calendar days following arrival in Spain. The application is considered initiated once the appointment is obtained, even if the appointment takes place later. Failure to apply within the deadline may result in the stay being considered irregular.
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Steps for processing - First time and renewing
Obtain the Initial Authorization for Stay for Higher Education or another long-term visa (work, family reunification, etc.). If renewing, obtain the affirmative resolution of the renewal of your Authorization permit first.
- Initial authorization for stay for higher education studies: Procedure that needs to be done previously in order to be able to apply for the TIE card.
- Form EX-17:Application form for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).
Once your visa application is approved, you have one month to schedule an appointment at the nearest Immigration Office (fingerprinting). If renewing, once the affirmative resolution is provided, you will also have a 30 day period.
- Immigration appointment:Authority responsible for processing applications and permits for foreign nationals.
Make sure to bring:
- Approved Authorization: Initial (Or Renewed) Authorization for Stay for Higher Education or another long-term visa
- Valid and current passport or TIE card (if it is to be renewed): Original and photocopy (all pages where data or stamps appear).
- Application for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE): EX-17 form.
- Three recent photographs: Passport size, in color, front-facing, with a white background.
- Current registration certificate: Proof of address in Spain at the time of application.
- Proof of payment of the fee: Model 790, code 012.
- Fee Form Model 790, code 012: Official fee to process its payment prior to the appointment with the Police.
If requesting it for the first time. Option: TIE que documenta la primera concesión de la autorización de residencia temporal, de estancia o para trabajadores transfronterizos.
If renewing: Option: TIE que documenta la renovación de la autorización de residencia temporal o la prórroga de la estancia o de la autorización para trabajadores transfronterizos.
Go to the appointment, on time. Make sure you have all the original documents up to date and in force. If everything is in order, you will be given a receipt and your application will be processed.
- Information on the status of your immigration file/application:After 30 days, you can check online whether your TIE is ready at the following link
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