Visa Renewals

TIE Card Renewal in Spain: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide

The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) card is your physical proof of residence in Spain. When you renew your visa authorisation, you also need to renew the physical TIE card — this is a separate step that many people miss. Here's the complete process.

Two-Step Process: Authorisation Then Card

Many people confuse the residence authorisation renewal with the TIE card renewal — they're related but separate. Step 1: renew your residence authorisation (NLV, DNV, etc.) through SEDE online or Oficina de Extranjería. Step 2: once approved, apply for the new TIE card. Both steps are needed.

When to Apply for the New TIE

After your renewed authorisation is approved, you have 30 days to apply for the new TIE card. Book a cita previa at the Policía Nacional for the TIE appointment as soon as you receive your renewal approval. Don't wait until the last day — appointments can be hard to get quickly.

Required Documents for TIE Renewal

The Appointment

The TIE appointment at the Policía Nacional involves biometric data capture — your fingerprints are taken and a digital photo is captured. The card itself is typically collected 1–4 weeks after the appointment (collection timing varies by location). You'll receive a SMS or can check online when it's ready.

UK WA-Protected Nationals: EX-23

UK nationals protected under the Withdrawal Agreement who qualify for long-term residence (5+ years) should use form EX-23 (rather than EX-17) for their TIE renewal. If your TIE shows 'Withdrawal Agreement' or 'Acuerdo de Retirada', confirm the correct form with your local Policía Nacional or a specialist before your appointment.

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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Typically 1–4 weeks from the biometric appointment. You'll receive an SMS notification when your card is ready for collection at the Policía Nacional office where you had your appointment.

An expired TIE card is not technically valid as proof of residency. However, the appointment receipt and the renewed authorisation resolution serve as evidence of your legal status during this period. Carry all documents together while waiting for the new card.

Some Policía Nacional offices allow collection by an authorised representative (with a signed authorisation and their own ID). However, this varies by office — it's cleaner to collect in person if possible.