Return authorization: requirements, EX-13 form and how to apply
Before starting the procedure: requirements and procedures may change. Check the information applicable to your case and consult the relevant official sources.
Updated guide
Return authorization: requirements, EX-13 form and how to apply
The return authorization allows you to leave Spain and return within a limited period while your residence or stay authorization, or your TIE, is being processed, renewed, extended or replaced.
Form
EX-13
Fee
Form 790, Code 012
Validity
Up to 90 days
Entry
Through a Spanish border crossing
Quick summary
- The return authorization allows you to travel outside Spain and return while your documents are being processed.
- It is mainly used for renewals, extensions, replacement TIE cards or initial issuance in exceptional circumstances.
- The official form is EX-13.
- The Form 790, Code 012 fee must be paid, except in specific cases indicated by the authorities.
- The authorization cannot be valid for more than 90 days.
- It only allows entry into Spain through authorized Spanish border crossing points.
The return authorization is an important document for foreign nationals who need to leave Spain while their residence or stay authorization, or Foreigner Identity Card, is being renewed, extended, issued or replaced.
Its purpose is to prevent problems when returning to Spain if you do not yet have your new card in hand or your previous documents have expired, are being processed or are awaiting replacement.
Key point
A return authorization does not replace your residence permit or extend it. It only allows you to leave and return to Spain for a limited period when an application to renew, extend, replace or issue a document is already in progress.
What is a return authorization?
A return authorization is a document that allows a foreign national to leave Spain and legally return to Spanish territory when their residence or stay authorization is in a specific administrative situation.
It is particularly useful when someone has applied to renew their residence permit, extend their stay or replace their TIE, or is waiting for a card to be issued after an initial authorization has been granted.
This document is not issued simply for convenience. There must be circumstances that justify the need for it and, in many cases, a planned trip that you should be prepared to provide evidence of.
When can you apply?
You can apply for a return authorization in specific circumstances. The most common are:
Residence permit renewal
When you have submitted your residence authorization renewal application within the legal deadline and need to travel.
Extension of stay
When your stay authorization extension is being processed and you need to leave Spain temporarily.
Replacement TIE
When your card is still valid but you have applied for a replacement because it was stolen, lost, destroyed or damaged.
Initial authorization granted
In certain cases, if a decision has been made to grant the initial authorization and there are exceptional reasons for travelling.
If you are in the process of renewing a card, you may also find it useful to read the guide to renewing a long-term residence card and the article about fingerprinting for a NIE/TIE.
What is a return authorization for?
It allows you to return to Spain when your residence or stay documents are not physically valid in the usual way, or while you are waiting for your permanent card.
For example, you may need one if your TIE has expired, you have submitted a renewal application and need to travel before receiving your new card. It may also be useful if you have lost your card and applied for a replacement but need to leave Spain before receiving it.
Practical tip: Before booking tickets, check whether you need a return authorization and whether you will have enough time to obtain one. Applications may be processed as a priority in urgent situations, but it is best not to leave it until the last minute.
Requirements for applying for a return authorization
Requirements may vary depending on your circumstances, but you will generally need to provide evidence of three things: your identity, your immigration status in Spain and the need to travel.
| Requirement | What it means | Example document |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | You must prove who you are. | A complete, valid passport, registration certificate or travel document. |
| Application in progress | You must show that your renewal, extension, duplicate card or card issuance application has been submitted. | Submission receipt, proof of renewal or duplicate card application. |
| Reason for travel | In many cases, it is advisable to explain why you need to leave Spain. | Tickets, medical appointment, employment, family or academic documents. |
| Fee | The applicable administrative fee must be paid. | Paid Form 790, Code 012. |
Required documents
As a general rule, you should prepare the following to apply for a return authorization:
- Completed and signed Form EX-13.
- A valid, complete passport, registration certificate or travel document, as applicable.
- Documents proving that the procedure is in progress: renewal, extension, TIE duplicate or card issuance.
- Proof of payment of fee 790, Code 012.
- Documents justifying the trip, especially if there are exceptional or urgent circumstances.
- A copy of your TIE, if you have one, or proof of its loss, theft or duplicate application, where applicable.
If your trip is related to studies, work, health or family, it is advisable to provide documents proving this. The clearer the reason, the less room there will be for doubts or requests for additional documents.
Recommended official link
You can check the procedure on the National Police online portal: Return authorization – National Police.
How to complete Form EX-13
Form EX-13 is the official application form for a return authorization. It must be completed with the foreign national’s details, the representative’s details, if applicable, the address for notifications and the circumstances justifying the application.
In the relevant section, select the situation that applies to your case: renewal or extension, TIE duplicate, initial authorization awaiting card issuance, or another applicable situation.
- Download Form EX-13 from an official source.
- Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport and NIE.
- Provide your address, telephone number and contact email address.
- Select the administrative situation that entitles you to apply for a return authorization.
- Include the representative’s details only if another person is acting on your behalf.
- Sign the form before submitting it.
- Check that no pages or required details are missing.
Important
Do not confuse Form EX-13 with other immigration forms. For example, EX-17 is used for the TIE and EX-15 for certain certificates or the NIE, but a return authorization is applied for using EX-13.
How to pay the Form 790, Code 012 fee
Form 790, Code 012 is used for the return authorization. The fee must be paid before submitting the application, unless the office gives different instructions for a specific case.
After paying, keep the full payment receipt. If you pay at a bank, the bank’s validation must be visible. If you pay electronically, save the PDF generated by the system.
If you have questions about other fees, you can consult the guide to the Police fee 790 012 and how it differs from other fees, such as the fee 790 052.
Where to apply for a return authorization
Applications are usually submitted in person at the relevant Immigration Office or police station, depending on the province and type of procedure. In many cases, you will need to book an appointment.
Before you go, check which office is responsible in your province, the exact appointment procedure and the documents required by that office. Practical requirements may vary between provinces.
Common mistake
Do not wait until the day before your trip. Although urgent cases may receive priority, appointments may not be available and an immediate decision is not guaranteed.
How long is a return authorization valid?
A return authorization is valid for a maximum of 90 days. How the period is calculated may depend on when you apply:
- If you apply before your residence or stay authorization expires, it may be valid for up to 90 days from the expiry date.
- If you apply after it expires, it may be valid for up to 90 days from the date it is granted.
- In initial applications involving exceptional circumstances, it may also be granted for a limited period, where applicable.
During its validity period, there is no limit on the number of entries and exits using a single document, but you must always observe the period granted and keep the authorization with you while travelling.
Can you use it to enter through any Schengen country?
You should not assume so. A return authorization allows you to enter Spain and, according to official information, is valid only for entry through designated Spanish border crossing points.
This means that if you travel with a return authorization, the safest option is to arrange to return directly to Spain and avoid entering through another Schengen country first, as you could encounter problems at the border.
Travel recommendation
Whenever possible, book a return ticket that takes you directly into Spain. If you have a stopover in another Schengen country, check with the airline, consulate or relevant authority beforehand.
Situations in which you may need one
Renewal application submitted
Your TIE has expired or is about to expire, and you have already applied for its renewal.
Fingerprinting appointment pending
Your authorization has been granted, but you have not yet received the new physical card.
Replacement after loss
You have lost your TIE or it has been stolen, and you have already applied for a replacement.
Urgent travel
You have a family, medical, work-related or academic reason that justifies leaving Spain.
Common mistakes when applying
Failing to provide proof of the pending procedure
You must provide proof of your renewal, extension, replacement or card issuance application.
Booking flights without checking the deadlines
The appointment and decision may not arrive in time if you leave it until the last minute.
Returning via another Schengen country
The return authorization is intended for entry through a Spanish border.
Incorrect form
The application must be submitted using form EX-13, not any other immigration form.
Checklist before travelling
- You have submitted the renewal, extension, duplicate-card request or procedure that justifies the authorization.
- You have completed and signed form EX-13.
- You have paid fee 790 code 012.
- You have kept the payment receipt.
- Your passport is valid.
- You have documents justifying the reason for your trip.
- The return authorization has been granted before you leave.
- You will return to Spain within the authorization’s period of validity.
- You must return through an authorised Spanish border crossing.
Frequently asked questions about the return authorisation
What is a return authorisation?
It is a document that allows you to leave Spain and return while your residence or stay authorisation, or TIE, is being renewed, extended, replaced with a duplicate, or issued for the first time in certain cases.
Which form should I use?
Use the official form EX-13, which is the application form for a return authorisation.
What fee do I have to pay?
You must pay the fee using Form 790 Code 012, unless the authorities specify otherwise for a particular case.
How long is the return authorisation valid?
It cannot be valid for more than 90 days. The validity period starts differently depending on whether you apply before or after your residence or stay authorisation expires.
Can I enter through another Schengen country?
This is not recommended. The return authorisation is valid for entry through authorised Spanish border crossings. The safest option is to return directly to Spain.
Can I apply for one if I have lost my TIE?
Yes. You can apply if you had a valid TIE and have requested a replacement because it was stolen, lost, destroyed or rendered unusable, provided you can duly prove this.
Can I travel without a return authorisation?
If your documents have expired or are being processed, travelling without a return authorisation may cause problems when you return to Spain. Before leaving, check whether you need one based on your circumstances.
Conclusion
A return authorisation is an essential document if you need to travel outside Spain while your residence permit, stay authorisation or TIE is being processed. To apply correctly, prepare Form EX-13, provide evidence that your application is in progress, pay the fee under Form 790 Code 012 and check the validity period carefully.
Before buying tickets or leaving the country, make sure the authorisation has been granted and arrange to return through an authorised Spanish border crossing.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional legal advice or information provided by the competent authorities.
