Spanish Residence Permit (TIE): Photo Requirements and Application Process

What is the TIE?

The Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) is the physical document that certifies the identity and legal status of foreign citizens who legally reside in Spain for a period exceeding 6 months. It replaces the former EU citizen registration certificate.

Photo Requirements for the TIE

Mandatory Technical Specifications

• Size: 35 × 45 mm
• Face Height: 32–36 mm (chin to crown)
• Background: Light and uniform (white or light grey)
• Quality: High resolution, sharp, colour, no digital retouching
• Recency: Taken within the last 6 months

Composition Requirements

• Position: Frontal, looking directly at the camera
• Expression: Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible
• Lighting: Even, without pronounced shadows or reflections
• Focus: Sharp throughout the image, especially on the face

Clothing and Accessories Guidelines

• Glasses: Allowed if they don’t produce reflections and eyes are visible
• Head Coverings: Only for justified religious or medical reasons
• Jewelry: Permitted if it doesn’t interfere with facial identification
• Makeup: Natural, without dramatic changes in appearance

TIE Application Process

Who Must Apply for the TIE?

• EU citizens residing in Spain for more than 3 months
• Family members of EU citizens (non-EU nationals)
• Third-country nationals with residence authorization
• Beneficiaries of international protection

Required Documents (EU Citizens)

• Passport or identity document from country of origin
• Photograph meeting specified requirements
• Documentation proving reason for residence:
  • Employment contract or employment certificate
  • Documentation of sufficient economic resources
  • Public or private health insurance
• Form EX-18 properly completed

Additional Documents (Non-EU Family Members)

• Documentation proving family relationship
• TIE of EU family member or equivalent documentation
• Passport with visa (if applicable)

Where to Apply

• Immigration Offices
• Authorized National Police Stations
• Prior appointment mandatory through official website
• Some procedures can be done online

Fees and Costs (2024)

• First issuance: €12.00
• Renewal: €15.84
• Duplicate for loss/damage: €15.84
• Fee exemption for certain groups

Processing Time

• Standard processing: 30-45 working days
• Provisional receipt: Issued same day as application
• Collection: Prior appointment needed to collect card

TIE Renewal

When to Renew

• 60 days in advance of expiration date
• Up to 90 days after expiration (possible penalty)
• Every 5 years for permanent residents
• According to duration of authorization for other cases

Documents for Renewal

• Previous TIE (original and photocopy)
• Updated passport
• Recent photograph
• Updated documentation justifying continued residence
• Payment receipt for fee

Common Photo Rejection Reasons

1. Incorrect dimensions or face outside required scale
2. Inappropriate background (colored or with elements)
3. Lack of sharpness or low-quality image
4. Reflections on glasses preventing eye visibility
5. Inappropriate expression (wide smile, grimaces)
6. Poor lighting with strong shadows
7. Old photo not reflecting current appearance

Special Cases

Loss or Theft of TIE

• Immediate report at police station or Civil Guard
• Duplicate application with additional documentation
• Special fee and possible processing delay

Change of Personal Data

• Address change: Mandatory to report within 30 days
• Marital status change: Additional documentation required
• Passport change: Update necessary

Practical Tips

• Request appointment well in advance
• Prepare all documentation before appointment
• Use professional photographer specialized in official documents
• Keep receipt until receiving final card
• Renew on time to avoid legal problems

Rights and Obligations

Rights with TIE

• Official identification in Spanish territory
• Access to public services according to residence type
• Free movement within Schengen area (EU citizens)

Obligations

• Carry the card or have a copy available
• Renew before expiration
• Report changes in address and relevant data

Additional Information

For specific queries about the TIE, contact the corresponding Immigration Office, call 060, or consult the official website of the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration.