How to Renew the TIE: A Guide for Employers and Employees

For international employees living in Spain, maintaining valid residency documentation is essential. One of the most important documents is the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero), which proves legal residence or stay in Spain.

Here’s how you can support your international employees in renovating their TIE, including where to apply, necessary documents, and a step-by-step process.

Looking for more information on documentation for foreign employees in Spain? Read our Guide to NIE and TIE Requirements.

When to Renew the TIE

The TIE can only be renewed once it has expired. Before applying for the renewal, the residence or stay permit must first be renewed, if required. This should be initiated within 60 days before the expiration date to avoid legal issues and processing delays.

There are exceptions where the residence permit does not need to be renewed prior to applying for the TIE. Individuals can apply directly for the TIE renewal if they hold:

A long-term residence permit
A residence card as a permanent family member of an EU citizen
A card granted under special protection for Ukrainian nationals
A card issued under the Withdrawal Agreement for British citizens and their family members after Brexit

For all other types of residence or stay permits, renewal of the permit is mandatory before applying for the TIE renewal.

Where to Apply for the TIE

The TIE renewal must be requested at the Police Station that corresponds to the applicant’s place of residence. A prior appointment is required. To book one:

Visit administracionespublicas.gob.es
Select your province
Choose the appropriate procedure
Select an available date and time
Save or print the appointment confirmation

Applicants must also have an updated municipal registration certificate (empadronamiento) showing their current address.

3. Required Documents to Renew the TIE

To renew the TIE, the following documents are needed:

EX-17 Form: The official application form, available online. It’s best to complete it on a computer and print it.
Valid passport: Original and a full photocopy of all used pages
Current TIE card: The expired card must be presented
Permit renewal resolution: Proof of renewal of the residence or stay permit (unless exempt)
Administrative fee payment receipt: Proof of payment for Modelo 790 Code 012
Two recent passport-sized photos: Meeting official specifications

Updated registration certificate (empadronamiento): Issued within the last three months

1 Gather All Required Documents	Make sure all forms and documents are complete and in order.
2 Complete the EX-17 Form	Download, fill out, and sign the form. Check all details carefully.
3 Pay the Administrative Fee	Fill out the Modelo 790 Code 012 form online, print it, and pay the fee at an authorized bank. Keep the stamped receipt.
4 Schedule an Appointment	Book an appointment through the official government website: - Select your province - Choose the procedure - Pick a date and time - Save or print the confirmation
5 Attend the Appointment	Bring all required documents and provide any additional information requested. Fingerprints will be taken again.
6 Wait for Processing	Processing times can range from 30 to 40 days depending on the region.
7 Collect the New TIE	Pick up the new card, typically from the same Police Station where the application was submitted.

Tips for a Successful Renewal

Start early: Begin the permit renewal process 60 days before the TIE expiration date
Double-check documents: Make sure everything is filled out correctly and nothing is missing
Keep records: Hold on to copies of all forms and submissions
Consider professional guidance: If you're unsure about the process, getting help from an immigration expert such as Jobbatical can help you ensure everything goes smoothly

How Jobbatical Can Help

TIE renewal is a time-sensitive process that plays an important role in maintaining your international employees’ legal status in Spain. Employers who understand and support this process can help reduce delays, avoid risks, and offer a more stable relocation experience for their teams.

Relocating international talent to Spain?

Jobbatical helps businesses manage employee relocation and immigration tasks in Spain.

Talk to our team to see how we can help your company support international employees throughout their move and beyond.

How long does the NIE renewal process take?

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) does not expire.
However, the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero), does expire and processing times for the renewal can range from 30 to 40 days.

Can employees work while renewing their NIE?

The NIE does not expire. Current regulations state that the NIE certificate does not have an expiration date and is valid indefinitely. However, associated documents such as the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero), which proves residency status, do expire and must be renewed periodically based on the type of residence permit granted.

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