Moving to Spain on a non-lucrative visa is a significant step, but it’s just the beginning of your journey. Upon arrival, there are critical steps to secure your residency, primarily obtaining the Spanish TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) card. This article, based on firsthand experiences, provides an informative guide on navigating this process.
Understanding the TIE and Its Importance
The TIE is your Foreigner’s Identity Card in Spain. While your visa allows entry into Spain, it doesn’t grant residency. The TIE is essential for legal residency beyond 90 days. It’s a common misconception to confuse the NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero), which is an identification number, with the TIE, which is the actual residency card.
Steps to Obtain the TIE
1. Scheduling the TIE Appointment
- Act Fast: Schedule your TIE appointment as soon as possible upon arrival. In most cases, this involves visiting a local police station.
- Use the Sede Electronica Website: Follow a step-by-step process on the Sede Electrónica to book your appointment. Avoid using Google Translate on the website as it may lead to errors.
Here’s a detailed checklist for selecting options within the Sede Electronica for the TIE process:
- Access the Sede Electrónica Website
- Visit the official Sede Electronica website as directed.
- Selecting the Province
- Click on the ‘Acceder al procedimiento’ button.
- Select your province from the dropdown list (e.g., Málaga).
- Choosing the Appointment Type
- Click ‘aceptar’ after selecting the province.
- Select the appointment type relevant to the TIE.
- For the TIE, choose ‘toma de Huellas / Expedición de tarjeta / renovación de tarjeta de larga duración’.
- This option is for fingerprinting, expediting the card, and renewing a long-duration card.
- Reviewing Required Documents
- A list of required documents will appear.
- Take a screenshot or copy and paste this list for reference.
- Click on all the links provided for detailed information (you won’t see this list again).
- Filling Out the Form
- Click ‘enter’ to proceed to the form.
- Fill out the form with your NIE number (found in your passport and beginning with a letter).
- Enter your name exactly as printed in your visa and your country of citizenship.
- Selecting the Specific Location and Office
- Choose the specific location and office for your appointment.
- Providing Contact Information
- Fill out your email and contact information.
- Choosing the Date and Time
- Select the date and time of your appointment.
- Note that available slots may vary, and you might need to be flexible with your scheduling.
- Finalizing the Appointment
- Once you have selected the date and time, confirm the appointment.
- You will receive an appointment confirmation.
- Take a screenshot of the confirmation and print two copies for safekeeping.
- Gather Necessary Documents: You’ll need your NIE number, passport details, and personal information. Choose an appointment date and time, and keep trying if the site is unresponsive.
2. Preparing for the Appointment
- Empadronamiento: Register with the local government using your Spanish address. This is crucial for proving your residence in Spain.
- Gather Required Documents: This includes the EX-17 application form, passport copies, entry stamp photocopy, recent EU-sized color photographs, and the completed Model 790-012 form for the fee payment.
- Pay the Fee at a Bank: The fee, around 18 euros per person, must be paid before the appointment.
3. Attending the Appointment
- Be Prepared: Bring all necessary documents and arrive on time.
- Fingerprinting: The appointment will include fingerprinting and verification of documents.
- Temporary Documentation: You’ll receive a temporary document confirming your legal residency status while waiting for the TIE card.
4. Receiving the TIE Card
- Wait for a Call: The local government office will call you, usually within 4-6 weeks, to pick up your TIE card.
- Collecting the Card: Ensure you don’t miss the call and collect your card as instructed.
Key Tips and Insights
- Timing: Try to schedule your appointment towards the end of your first 30 days in Spain to allow time for gathering documents.
- Empadronamiento: Aim to do this in person for quicker processing.
- Documentation: Double-check all required documents and keep copies.
- Persistence: The Sede Electronica website can be temperamental. Persistence is key.
- Language Barrier: Basic Spanish knowledge is helpful, but the questions asked are usually straightforward.
Conclusion
Securing your TIE in Spain is a critical step in establishing your residency. While the process can seem daunting, with proper preparation and understanding of the requirements, it’s manageable. Remember, each experience may vary slightly, so stay adaptable and patient throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Spanish TIE Process
Q1: What if I can’t get a TIE appointment within my first 30 days in Spain?
A1: Officially, you should schedule your appointment within the first 30 days. However, as long as you apply for the appointment within this period, it’s generally acceptable if the actual appointment date falls outside this window. The authorities understand that appointment slots can be limited, especially in busy areas like Madrid or Barcelona. Related read: If I delay obtaining empadronamiento and TIE after visa approval, is my Digital Nomad Visa Spain at risk?
Q2: Can I use a long-term rental like Airbnb for my Empadronamiento?
A2: No, you cannot use services like Airbnb for Empadronamiento. Each address in Spain can only be registered to one person or family for the census. You need a lease agreement for a permanent address. Related read: Is an Airbnb booking suitable for an Non lucrative Visa Spain application?
Q3: What should I do if I miss the phone call to pick up my TIE card?
A3: If you miss the call, it can be challenging as they might not leave a voicemail or a callback number. It’s crucial to answer the call or have someone available to do so. In some cases, if you’re applying with a partner or family, and one of you receives the call, you might be able to arrange for all cards to be picked up together.
Q4: What are the essential documents I need for the TIE appointment?
A4: The key documents include:
- The EX-17 application form (completed and signed in duplicate).
- Original and photocopies of your passport (including the photo page, identity page, and the visa).
- A recent EU-sized color photograph.
- Proof of payment for the TIE fee (Model 790 code 012 form).
- Empadronamiento certificate.
Q5: How much does the TIE process cost?
A5: The total cost for the TIE, including photocopies, photos, and the processing fee, is typically under 50 euros for two people. The individual fee for the TIE is around 18 euros each.
Q6: How long does the TIE appointment take?
A6: The appointment itself is usually quick, often taking around 10 minutes. It involves document verification, fingerprinting, and receiving a temporary document until your TIE card is ready.
Q7: Is the Empadronamiento process complicated?
A7: The Empadronamiento process can vary depending on your location. In some places, you can walk in without an appointment and complete the process quickly, while in others, you might need to schedule an appointment. It’s generally recommended to do it in person for faster processing.
Q8: Can I fill out the TIE paperwork in English?
A8: No, the paperwork for the TIE process is in Spanish. It’s advisable to have a basic understanding of Spanish or seek assistance if needed. Online resources are available to help with filling out forms like the EX-17.
Q9: What should I do if I encounter issues with the Sede Electronica website?
A9: If you face difficulties with the Sede Electronica website, such as unresponsiveness or errors, persistence is key. Keep trying at different times of the day, and ensure your internet connection is stable.
Q10: Can I apply for the TIE with a partner or family?
A10: Yes, you can apply for the TIE with a partner or family, but getting simultaneous appointments can be challenging. It’s advisable to try and schedule your appointments as close together as possible.
