TIE is Foreigner Identity Card in Spain. It is called “tarjeta de identidad de extranjero” in Spanish. The TIE card in Spain is a document proving that a foreigner is legally residing in Spain. It can be considered an ID card for foreigners living in Spain for more than 6 consecutive months.
Getting a TIE in Spain is obligatory. The TIE card must be obtained within one month of getting a Spanish residence permit. TIE is obligatory for all non-EU country citizens who will live more than 6 months consecutively. Now, let's have a look at all details about what is a TIE card in Spain.
What is a TIE in Spain?
TIE is the abbreviation of “tarjeta de identidad de extranjero” in Spanish, or foreigner ID card in English. The card simply proves that the foreigner is living legally in Spain. The TIE card includes the following information;
- Personal data
- Photograph
- Type of cardholder’s residence permit type
- NIE number
In short, TIE Spain meaning is proof of authorization on a foreigner’s permit of living in Spain. If you didn’t hear about it, you may wonder what is the NIE number. The NIE number is a foreign ID number. Simply, NIE is an identification number for administrative purposes.
NIE or TIE Spain: What Are Differences?
NIE and TIE can be confusing sometimes. To make it obvious, let’s look at the details to learn these two cards better.
- TIE is a card that proves the foreigner is living legally in Spain.
- NIE is a number that is used for administrative purposes.
- NIE is automatically issued if a foreigner starts an administrative process.
- TIE is issued by being applied after getting a residence permit.
- TIE has an expiration date. NIE does not have any expiration date.
- Losing residency rights or committing a crime leads to losing TIE. NIE is still valid even when committed a crime.
What Are TIE Requirements Spain Obliges?
There are not very strict requirements for TIE. Let’s start with TIE application requirements, then we will look at the required documents.
TIE Application Requirements
- Spanish authorization or visa allowing living in the country for more than 6 months
- TIE holders that legal or business change that requires renewal of residence permit.
- TIE holders whose cards are lost, stolen, or damaged.
Documents Needed for TIE Spain
- Original and photocopy of travel document or passport
- EX-17 application form. The form must be submitted completed and signed, with a copy.
- 3 passport photos with white background.
- Card fee payment receipt. (10 to 20 €)
- Social Security registration document
- Stolen, lost, or damaged card reports for existing cardholders.
These are the requirements for TIE in Spain. Now let’s continue with the application process.
How to Easily Apply for TIE Card in Spain?
Simply, you should apply for TIE at the immigration office or the closest police station to your residence. But, you should take note that you should request an appointment. You may use Spain’s electronic government office system for appointment requests.
We already mentioned that you must get it within 1 month of entering Spain. We suggest you complete the application as quickly as possible after entering the country. Because it may take time to have an appointment.
After getting an appointment you should go to the police station or immigration office. You will submit all the required documents mentioned above. Your card will be issued within a month.
TIE card Spain benefits are also interesting. After getting this card, it will be your main official document while living in Spain. It will take the place of resident permit, visa, or any other legal document.
Getting a TIE in Spain is not a hard process. If you have a residence permit and the required documents, you may easily obtain the card. You must take note that if you are going to live more than 6 consecutive months in Spain, it becomes obligatory. You must apply for a TIE Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions on TIE Card in Spain
Q: Do I need a TIE card in Spain?
A: If you are a non-EU country citizen going to live in Spain for more than 6 consecutive months, you need a TIE card.
Q: Can I work in Spain with a TIE card?
A: TIE is a card issued for a legal residence permit. It does not proof of a working permit. But, the card can be obtained through a work contract. Also, the students with TIE cards can work up to 4 hours a day.
Q: Is TIE the same as Residencia?
A: TIE is a card that replaces residence permits for non-EU citizens who will live longer than 6 months in Spain.
Q: How long can I stay in Spain with a TIE?
A: Your TIE card’s validity will be shown on your card. It will have the same validity date as your residence permit.
Q: How do I pick up my tie card in Spain?
A: You may pick up your TIE card within 1 month beginning from the application at the closest police station or immigration office.
Q: How much is TIE in Spain?
A: The TIE card fee is about 10 to 20 €.
Q: Can I renew my TIE card?
A: You can renew your TIE card as long as you have a valid residence permit.
Q: I lost my TIE card, what should I do?
A: You should apply for a new card at the police station or immigration office, as soon as possible.
Q: The information stated on my TIE card changed. What should I do?
A: You should notify through police station or immigration office within a month after the information change. It can be a change in family, residence address, or work situation.
Q: Should I carry my TIE card always with me?
A: As a foreigner, a TIE card will just like be your national card in your home country. So, you should always carry your TIE card in Spain.
Q: What are the main benefits of a TIE card in Spain?
A: TIE card allows holders to open a bank account, right to use social services, and travel to other EU countries.
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