After you apply for a residence permit and live in Spain, you must eventually renew your status. This guide shows you how to renew your Spanish residence permit step by step.
When to submit your application
You must submit your renewal application within a specific legal window. Submitting at the wrong time can cause issues.
You can submit your application 60 days before your current card expires. This is the official start of the renewal window.
You can also submit your application up to 90 days after your card expires. However, the government can fine you for late submission.
Your legal residency in Spain is protected while the government processes your renewal. You can stay in Spain legally during this time.
Where to submit your application
You can submit your documents online or in person. Online submission is the fastest and most popular method.
You must use the government Mercurio platform for online submission. You need a certificado digital (digital certificate) or a Cl@ve (electronic signature system) to submit the documents.
If you do not have a digital certificate, you can hire an abogado de extranjería (immigration lawyer). They can submit the files online for you.
You can also submit documents in person at a public registry. However, this process is slower because they mail paper copies.
How Madrid’s immigration office (ExtranjerÃÂa) works
General required documents
You must gather several standard documents for your renewal. The Oficina de Extranjería (immigration office) will review these files.
Required document checklist
- Application form Modelo EX-00 : The completed and signed renewal application form.
- Passport : Your valid passport and a copy of every single page.
- Current TIE : A copy of both sides of your expiring identity card.
- Fee payment receipt : Proof of payment for the administrative renewal tax.
- Proof of address : A recent registration certificate if you changed your address.
The empadronamiento: How to register your address in Madrid
Specific requirements by permit type
You must also submit specific documents depending on the type of residence permit you hold.
For employees
You must show you are still working in Spain. You must submit your employment contract and a vida laboral (work history report) from the social security system.
For freelancers and autónomos
You must show that your business is still active. You must submit proof of tax payments to Hacienda (tax agency) and monthly contributions to Seguridad Social (social security).
For students
You must show you completed your previous course. You need an academic certificate, registration for a new course, proof of funds, and private health insurance.
For digital nomads
You must show that you still earn remote income. You must submit your active foreign contract, recent payslips, and proof of income meeting the threshold.
Pay the renewal tax
You must pay an administrative fee to process your renewal. This fee is called a tasa.
You must complete and download the tax form online. Use the form titled Modelo 790 Código 052 (renewal fee form 790 code 052).
Select the correct option for your specific renewal. The fee is usually around €16 to €38 depending on your permit.
You can pay this fee at any local bank or ATM in Madrid. You must include the stamped receipt with your application.
Processing times and positive administrative silence
The immigration office has a legal limit of 3 months to process your renewal.
If they do not respond within 3 months, your application is automatically approved. This rule is called silencio administrativo positivo (positive administrative silence).
You can check your application status on the official portal online. The status will change to resolución favorable (favorable resolution) when approved.
If the 3 months pass without a decision, you can request a certificado de silencio administrativo (certificate of administrative silence). This certificate serves as official proof of your approval.
Travel during the renewal process
You can travel outside of Spain while your renewal is processing. However, you must obtain a special travel document.
This document is called the autorización de regreso (return authorization). It allows you to re-enter Spain with an expired card.
You must apply for this document at a local police station in Madrid. You must show proof of travel and your submitted renewal application.
The return authorization is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. It only allows travel directly to Spain.
Step 4: Book your fingerprinting appointment
Once your renewal is approved, you must apply for your new physical TIE card.
You must book a fingerprinting appointment at a local police station. This procedure is called the toma de huellas.
Documents for the card appointment
- Passport : Your valid passport and copies of the main pages.
- Approval letter : A copy of the favorable resolution or the silence certificate.
- Modelo 790 Código 012 : The paid card fee form. The fee is €16.08 or €21.87.
- Passport photo : A recent color photo with a white background.
- Empadronamiento certificate : Your proof of address if you changed your address.
You will receive your physical card 30 days after the fingerprinting appointment.
How to Apply for a Spanish Residence Permit (TIE)
Questions and answers
Can I submit my renewal online from outside of Spain?
No. You must be physically present in Spain when submitting your renewal application. The immigration office can check your entry stamps.
What happens if I apply more than 90 days after expiration?
Your permit will expire. You will lose your legal status in Spain. You will have to apply for a new visa from your home country.
Can I work while my renewal is being processed?
Yes. Your work rights are automatically extended while your renewal application is processing. You can show your submission receipt to your employer.
What if my renewal application is rejected?
You must leave Spain or appeal. You have 1 month to file an administrative appeal. You can also file a judicial appeal in court within 2 months.
Do I need to register my address again if I have not moved?
No. If you have not changed your address, you do not need a new certificate. The police will use the address from your previous card.
