“Successful first TIE application visit with the Alicante Policia Nacional! I must admit I was worried because we do not have our Empadronamiento yet, but they never even asked. We had the signed rental contract and receipts for the deposit, guarantee, and rent.
They wanted our passports with the visa, the EX-17 form, and the 790-12 form with proof of payment (I paid at a BBVA ATM), fingerprints, and we were done! Everyone we dealt with was really nice, and even though our Spanish is not great and their English was nonexistent, we got it all done easily.
They told us to make another appointment in 20 days and to return with just our passports to pick up our cards. An apartment, our TIEs, and the Empadronamiento in two weeks! We are all set. We are residents in Spain!”
Questions and Answers
Q1: What is the Empadronamiento?
A1: “The Empadronamiento (or simply Padron) is your residence registration in the place you live. Police stations may require it for the TIE, but most times, a signed lease of longer than 6 months is accepted.
In our case, they never asked for it. You get the Padron by making an appointment with the Ayuntamiento (local city hall) and bringing the signed lease or title and supporting docs.”
Q2: Can I wait to get the Padron until I decide where to settle?
A2: “You have to have a lease or own a property to get it, and it must be done in person (or by a lawyer). So yes, you can wait until you’ve chosen a place.”
Q3: Is there a time limit to get the Padron, like the 30-day limit for the TIE?
A3: “No, there is no time limit for the Padron, but you won’t be able to do certain things without it.”
Q4: Do I need an interpreter for my TIE application?
A4: “I’d apply for the 2nd year online. That way you can use the translate function in the browser to help. You will need a Cl@ve digital key, but with your current TIE you should be able to get it online. (Google Spanish Cl@ve).
Our Spanish is still not great, but we have done the 1st TIE appointment and 2 empadronamiento appointments with no problems (along with all of daily life). Have your translator app ready on your phone, and maybe even pre-type the basic things you need to say, translate and print to take along (I still do that if Pat is not along, her language is better than mine).
So far, the only thing that I have needed a gestor/translator for was getting the electricity set up for the new apartment. He did it all via WhatsApp. But I did the water and internet myself (online and using the translator on the phone, respectively).
It can be a little scary and a lot exhausting, but it will help to integrate into Spanish life better.
On the other hand, if it really is daunting, go with the gestor.”
Q5: Do you need an appointment for each family member for the TIE?
A5: “Yes, each person needs their own appointment, but in our case, they took us together.”
Q6: Do I need an appointment to pick up the TIE card?
A6: “In Alicante, no appointment is necessary to collect the cards. Just check the batch number (lote) online, and once your number is listed, go with your passport and the paper they gave you at the first appointment.”
Conclusion
Applying for a TIE in Alicante can be a straightforward process, even if your Spanish skills are limited. Key documents like the EX-17 form, 790-12 form, and your passport are essential.
The Empadronamiento is not technically required, and many have successfully processed their TIE with just a signed lease.
No appointment is needed to pick up your TIE card in Alicante, as long as you monitor the lote numbers online.
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