NIE/TIE fingerprinting (requirements and step-by-step process)
Before starting the procedure: requirements and procedures may change. Check the information applicable to your case and consult the relevant official sources.
What is fingerprinting and what is it for?
When the Immigration Office grants a residence authorization, the process does not end there. To obtain the physical card (the TIE), the foreign national must visit a National Police station to have their biometric data recorded: fingerprints from all 10 fingers and a digital photograph.
The TIE is the document that officially certifies your legal residence in Spain. It contains your first name, surname, nationality, date of birth, NIE, photograph and details of the permit granted.
It is only an administratively assigned number. It is not a physical document in its own right. It appears on the decision and on the TIE.
It is the physical card containing the NIE and biometric data. You receive it after fingerprinting. It is the document you must carry with you as a resident.
You can work with the decision. Once you have been notified that your application has been approved, you can work even if you do not yet have your physical TIE card. The positive decision serves as proof of your legal status while the card is being issued.
Documents to bring to your appointment
Always bring the original and a copy of each document. If any document is missing, the police station may refuse to process your application, and you will have to book another appointment.
For all cases (first issue)
Copy of the personal details page and the pages with visas. Venezuelan citizens may use an expired passport under the instruction issued in January 2025.
Original or official PDF downloaded from the government online portal. In most provinces, the online decision is sufficient—you do not need to wait for the paper letter.
Download it from inclusion.gob.es. Fill it in carefully: errors in the NIE, name or type of authorization are the most common reason for refusal.
Printed, even if you paid online. Always bring the printed proof of payment, even if the payment was made online. See the amounts in the next section.
In colour, with a white background, facing forward, without glasses or a hat, and taken less than 2 years ago. Official dimensions: 32 x 26 mm. Although some police stations take your photo at the appointment, always bring one with you.
Additional documents depending on your situation
| Situation | Additional documents |
|---|---|
| TIE renewal | Previous TIE (original) + updated municipal registration certificate (issued less than 3 months ago) |
| Replacement for a lost or stolen card | Police report + replacement fee (different from the first-issue fee) |
| Minor | The minor must attend with a parent or legal guardian, who must bring identification. Family record book or birth certificate. |
| Family reunification | The family member joining the sponsor must be accompanied by the sponsor, who must bring their valid original TIE. |
| Work permit for employed work | Registration with Social Security (reported to the Immigration Office at least 1 week before the appointment). Your application may be refused if this requirement is not met. |
Fee 790-012: amounts for 2025 and how to pay
The fee for issuing the TIE is paid using Form 790, Code 012. The amount varies depending on the type of authorization and is reviewed annually. These are the fees in force in 2025:
Check the fee when you generate the payment form. Fees are updated annually. Always use the official fee generator at sede.administracion.gob.es to make sure you pay the correct amount.
How can you pay it? You have three options:
At inclusion.gob.es/modelos-y-formularios. Generate the form, pay by card or direct debit, and download the receipt as a PDF. Print the receipt and bring it to your appointment.
Download and print the form, go to an ATM at any participating bank, and make the payment. You do not need to be a customer of the bank.
Take the printed form to any participating bank. The bank will stamp the form as proof of payment. Keep all three copies.
How to book an appointment for fingerprinting
Book your appointment through the National Police portal, not through the Ministry of Inclusion’s online portal (which is for other immigration procedures). Fingerprinting is always handled by the National Police.
Go to icp.administracionelectronica.gob.es and select your province.
Choose “Issuance of Foreigner Identity Card” or “Fingerprinting (card issuance)”. Choosing the wrong procedure is a common mistake that invalidates the appointment.
Enter your name, NIE or passport number, and email address. You will receive confirmation by email. Save the confirmation — you will need it on the day of your appointment.
Book your appointment as soon as possible after receiving the decision. Although there is no fixed legal deadline, waits of several weeks are possible in cities such as Madrid and Barcelona. The sooner you book, the better. Check the portal early in the morning, when new appointments become available.
Step-by-step process on the day of your appointment
Show your appointment confirmation at the entrance. Some police stations have a preliminary access check.
The officer will check that all your documents are in order before starting the biometric process.
This is done using a digital scanner to capture all 10 fingerprints and a photograph. The entire process at the counter usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes.
The receipt confirms that you have completed the procedure and is required to collect your TIE. It is valid as a provisional document if you need to show that your procedure is in progress. Do not lose it.
When and how to collect your TIE
Once your fingerprints have been taken, the card is produced within 20 to 40 working days. The timeframe varies depending on the police station and the volume of applications.
Between 20 and 40 working days. Some police stations notify you by SMS or email. If you do not receive a notification, go in after 3-4 weeks with your receipt.
Fingerprinting receipt + original passport. Most police stations no longer require an appointment to collect your card — check with yours.
Yes, with your receipt + passport + decision. To leave Spain, you need to apply for a Return Authorisation if your visa has expired.
Common mistakes to avoid
Without an approved decision, the police station cannot process your TIE, and you will lose your appointment.
Check the NIE number on your decision before completing the form. This is the most common mistake.
Even if you paid online, the police station requires a paper copy of the receipt. Always bring a printout.
A photo with a coloured background, glasses or a hat, or one taken more than 2 years ago. Always bring several recent copies.
If your permit is for employed work, you must be registered with Social Security and have notified the Immigration Office at least 1 week before your fingerprinting appointment. Without this step, your application may be rejected.
For renewals and replacement cards, your municipal registration certificate must be less than 3 months old. Renew it before your appointment if necessary.
Do you have questions about your appointment or documents?
Our immigration lawyers can review your documents before your appointment to help you avoid any problems.
Frequently asked questions
Official sources
This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional legal advice or information provided by the competent authorities.
