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.

┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈

1. 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.

2. 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:

1. Visit administracionespublicas.gob.es
2. Select your province;
3. Choose the appropriate procedure
4. Select an available date and time
5. Save or print the appointment confirmation

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

‍

Complete guide on processes in Madrid along with challenges and solutions.

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

4. TIE Renewal Requirements: First Time vs Second Time

The documents are almost identical, but Extranjeria checks different things on a first and a second TIE renewal. Here is what to prepare for each.

• First TIE renewal: Renew the underlying residence permit first, then book the fingerprint appointment with the EX-17 form, passport, favourable resolution, Modelo 790 Code 012 receipt, two photos, and a recent empadronamiento.
• Second TIE renewal: Expect closer review of continued eligibility, such as proof of ongoing employment, social security contributions, or sufficient means, alongside the standard EX-17 documents.
• Long-term residence: After five years many holders move to residencia de larga duracion and renew the TIE card directly every five years, without renewing the permit each time.
• Documents that never change: EX-17 form, valid passport, expired TIE, fee receipt, two photos, and a recent empadronamiento are always required.

See the full document checklist for every case: Guide to NIE and TIE requirements.

5. How to Renew an Expired, Lost, or Withdrawal Agreement (Brexit) TIE

Different TIE situations follow different rules. Match your case below before booking the appointment.

• Expired TIE (TIE caducado): The TIE is renewed after it expires, but apply as soon as possible. Long delays past the permit expiry can cause legal and travel problems, so stay within the 60-day window where you can.
• Lost, stolen, or damaged TIE: Request a duplicate with the EX-17 form, a police report for loss or theft, the Modelo 790 Code 012 receipt, and a photo, instead of a standard renewal.
• Withdrawal Agreement (Brexit) TIE: UK nationals with a five-year card renew the TIE directly into a ten-year card, with no separate permit renewal.
• Long-term and EU family cards: Holders of larga duracion, permanent EU family member cards, or Ukrainian protection cards renew the TIE directly.

Province processes differ: see the complete guide for Madrid.

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

The underlying authorisation must be renewed first: Spain EU Blue Card renewal employer guide

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.