Extranjería Spain: TIE, Fingerprinting, & Digital ID
Check out our Shop for downloadable PDFs that walk you through every step of these procedures — including what forms you need, how to fill them out, and what to expect at your appointment.
Tarjeta Identidad de Extranjero (TIE)
Foreign Identity Card
The TIE is a mandatory identification card for foreigners residing in Spain for longer than six months. It includes your NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero), which is your unique foreigner’s ID number and is required for most administrative, financial, and legal processes in Spain.
The TIE serves several purposes:
- It identifies you as a legal resident in Spain.
- It grants you access to services such as banking, housing and healthcare.
- It’s often required when signing contracts, such as for housing or employment.
To apply for your TIE, you will need to first book an appointment at one of the extranjería comisarías through the Sede Electrónica website. During the process, you will be fingerprinted and will need to present several documents (see the fingerprinting section for details). Once your application is complete, you will be issued the TIE, which is typically valid for the duration of your visa or contract.
Certificado de Delitos de Naturaleza Sexual
Sexual Offenses Certificate
The Certificado de Delitos de Naturaleza Sexual is required for individuals who wish to work with children in Spain, such as teachers or childcare workers. This certificate verifies that the applicant has no record of sexual offenses in Spain.
To obtain the certificate:
- Visit the Ministry of Justice website to request the certificate online or make an appointment to go in person.
- Provide the following documents:
- Valid passport or TIE (original and a photocopy).
- Completed application form.
The certificate is typically issued within a few days and is an essential document for those working in educational or childcare.
Certificado de Antecedentes Penales
Criminal Record Certificate
The Certificado de Antecedentes Penales certifies that you have no criminal record in Spain. It is often required for employment purposes or certain legal procedures.
To apply for this certificate:
- Visit the Ministry of Justice website to request the certificate online or make an appointment to go in person.
- Provide these documents:
- Valid passport or TIE (original and a photocopy).
- Completed application form.
- Proof of payment of the application fee.
Processing times can vary, but you will usually receive the certificate within a week.
Toma de Huellas
Fingerprinting
Fingerprinting is a critical step in the process of obtaining your TIE. This appointment is where your biometric data (fingerprints and a photo) will be collected and your TIE application finalized.
How to make an appointment:
- Go to the Extranjería Police website and select “Toma de Huellas.”
- Choose a comisaría in Castellón that offers this service.
Documents to bring:
- Completed application form.
- Original passport and a photocopy of the identification page and visa.
- Proof of residence (empadronamiento).
- Proof of payment for the processing fee.
Once your fingerprints are taken, your TIE will be ready for collection in approximately 30–45 days.
Autorización de Regreso
Return Authorization
The Autorización de Regreso allows you to leave and re-enter Spain while your TIE is being processed or renewed.
To apply:
- Book an appointment through the Extranjería Police website.
- Attend your appointment at one of the extranjería comisarías.
Documents required:
- Completed application form.
- Proof of TIE renewal or application in progress.
- Travel itinerary showing your intended travel dates.
- Proof of payment for the processing fee.
The authorization is typically valid for 90 days.
Prórroga de la Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero
TIE Renewal
If your TIE is about to expire, you will need to renew it to maintain your residency status. You can begin this procedure 60 days before the expiration of your TIE and up to 90 days after the expiration.
Steps to renew:
- Submit your renewal application online through Mercurio.
- Provide the following documents:
- Completed application form.
- Proof of continued eligibility (e.g., a new employment or study contract).
- Current TIE (original and photocopy).
- Proof of payment for the processing fee.
Processing times can vary and often take a few months.
Want detailed step-by-step guidance?
Check out our Shop for downloadable PDFs that walk you through every step of these procedures — including what forms you need, how to fill them out, and what to expect at your appointment.
Cl@ve PIN & Digital Certificate in Spain
In Spain, many official tasks — like requesting appointments, accessing your medical records, getting your padrón certificate, checking your Social Security info, or submitting forms — can be done online if you have a digital identity. Two common ways to do this are the Cl@ve PIN and the Digital Certificate (Certificado Digital).
They’re not the same, but they both let you access Spain’s online public administration platforms — including extranjería services, Hacienda (tax office), Seguridad Social, and more.
What’s the difference?
- Cl@ve PIN: Temporary access code that changes every time you log in. It’s linked to your NIE and phone number.
- Digital Certificate (Certificado Digital): A secure file installed on your device that gives full access to many official services. It’s more powerful and used for things like signing documents or managing more complex legal stuff.
How to Get the Cl@ve PIN
- Go to Cl@ve Website
- Click “Registrarse en Cl@ve” (Register).
- Choose the option “Con carta de invitación” or “Sin carta de invitación”.
- If you don’t have the letter, select “Sin carta” and fill out your NIE, full name, and Spanish address.
- Confirm your identity in person at an authorized office.
- Search for a nearby Oficina de Registro Cl@ve and make an appointment (often available at Social Security or Hacienda offices).
- Bring your NIE/TIE, passport, and empadronamiento (sometimes required).
- Once verified, you’ll be able to use the Cl@ve PIN app (download from Google Play or Apple Store) or receive PINs via SMS when logging into government platforms.
How to Get the Digital Certificate
- Go to The Royal Mint Website
- Click “Obtener Certificado Software” → then “Solicitar Certificado”
- Fill in your:
- NIE
- Full name (as shown on your TIE)
- Email address
- You’ll receive a verification code by email.
- Next, you need to verify your identity in person.
- Go to an Authorized Registration Office (often Agencia Tributaria).
- Bring your TIE/NIE, passport, and email confirmation.
- After verification, you’ll receive another email with a download link.
- Download the Digital Certificate to the same computer and browser you used to apply.
- Use Firefox or Internet Explorer (yes, really).
- Save the certificate somewhere safe!
