For expatriates and long-term visitors in Mallorca, securing a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) is an essential step. The TIE card, which serves as a residency permit for non-EU nationals, allows holders to live and work legally in Spain. With the island’s growing international community, understanding the process has never been more crucial.
Before applying, applicants must ensure they have all necessary documents. These include a valid passport, proof of legal stay such as a visa or residence authorisation, completed EX‑17 forms, and payment receipts for the official fee. Additionally, applicants are required to provide passport-size photographs and proof of address on the island, often in the form of a rental contract and registration at the local town hall, known as an “empadronamiento”.
The application process begins with registering your address in Mallorca. Once registered, applicants must schedule a “cita previa” — an appointment for fingerprinting and submission of documents — at the local foreigner’s office or designated police station. In Palma, the main office is located on Carrer Felicià Fuster. Given high demand, appointments should be booked well in advance through the official Spanish government portal.
During the appointment, applicants will present all required documents and undergo fingerprinting. The process is straightforward, but incomplete paperwork can result in delays. Once the application is submitted, processing typically takes three to six weeks. Upon approval, the TIE card can be collected in person at the same office.
For many living in Mallorca, the TIE card represents more than legal compliance; it is a key to fully participating in island life. Ensuring all documents are in order and booking an appointment early can save time and stress. As the international community on the island continues to grow, understanding and following the official procedures remains essential for a smooth residency experience.
Who needs a TIE Card
Foreign nationals staying in Spain for less than 180 days do not need to obtain a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE), as their visa covers the entire period. However, for stays longer than 180 days — including study, work, non-lucrative residence and most long-term permits — the visa is typically valid for only the first 90 days. As a result, applicants must request a TIE within one month of entering Spain, at the Foreigners’ Office or National Police station in the province where their residence authorisation was granted. The TIE serves as proof of legal residence, confirms the holder’s identity, and certifies that the right to remain in Spain for more than six months has been officially recognised.
Where to Apply
Applications for the foreigner’s identity card must be submitted in person by the applicant at the National Police Documentation Unit, located within the relevant Foreigners’ Office or Police Station in the province where they reside. A prior appointment is required and must be booked through Spain’s official Public Administration online portal.
Minors must attend the appointment accompanied by their duly accredited legal representative, who must present valid original identification, or by a person formally authorised to act on their behalf.
Required Documentation
In all cases, applicants must submit the official application form for the foreigner’s identity card, completed and signed, together with the original supporting documents, which will be returned once verified.
For first-time applications:
- A valid passport or travel document bearing the entry stamp or border control mark. If this is not available, a valid passport or travel document and a “declaración de entrada” (entry declaration) made in person at any Police Station or Foreigners’ Office within 72 hours of entering Spain; or, where applicable, a valid registration certificate.
- One recent passport-sized colour photograph with a white background.
- Visa, where required.
- The resolution granting the authorisation that justifies the issuance of the card, in cases such as: SME visas (relocated minors); Cross-border worker authorisations; Authorisations under Law 14/2013 on Support for Entrepreneurs and Their Internationalisation; Residence or stay permits granted via judicial appeal; Proof of payment of the relevant fee(s); Proof of Social Security affiliation and/or registration, where applicable.
For renewals:
- A valid passport, travel document or registration certificate.
- One recent passport-sized colour photograph with a white background.
- Proof of payment of the relevant fee(s).
- If the applicant has changed address, an updated empadronamiento certificate (issued within the last three months).
For duplicates due to loss, theft, damage or destruction:
- Police report for loss or theft, or the damaged card.
- A valid passport, travel document or registration certificate.
- One recent passport-sized colour photograph with a white background.
- Payment of the corresponding fee.
- If the address has changed, an updated empadronamiento certificate (issued within the last three months).
For modifications due to changes in circumstances or personal data:
- A valid passport, travel document or registration certificate.
- One recent passport-sized colour photograph with a white background.
- Documentation proving the circumstances that require the modification or data change on the card.
- Payment of the corresponding fee.
Fees for the TIE Card
Obtaining a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) in Spain costs between approximately 10 to 21 euros, depending on the type of residence authorisation, such as for study, initial work, renewal, or as a family member of an EU citizen. The relevant fee must be paid using the official Model 790-012 or 790-052 form prior to the in-person appointment at the National Police or Foreigners’ Office for fingerprinting and issuance of the card.
Duration of the TIE Card
The validity of a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) in Spain depends on your residence or stay authorisation. Typically, for study purposes, the TIE is issued for one year and can be renewed annually, while long-term residence permits can be issued for up to five years, even though the right to reside may be indefinite. The physical card itself — the “plastic” — expires every five years, regardless of whether the residence status is permanent.