Arrival deadlines after a long-stay visa that can trip you up

Key rules

• Entry window: Enter Spain within the validity dates printed on your visa sticker, or the visa is not valid.
• TIE deadline: Apply for the TIE within one month of entering Spain on a long-stay visa.
• Sanction: A late application is a minor infraction with a fine of up to 500 euros, not expulsion by itself.
• EU citizens: EU citizens get a registration certificate instead of a TIE.

Enter Spain inside the visa's validity period

Your visa only works for entry during the dates printed on the visa sticker. Check them before you book flights. If you arrive after the visa has expired, the visa is not valid and you cannot use it to start your stay.

The entry window is often up to three months, but it depends on your visa type. Always go by the dates on your own sticker, not by what someone else got.

Apply for the TIE within one month of arriving

You must apply for the TIE within one month of entering Spain. The month runs from your entry date, so start planning before you fly.

The steps are in the timeline below. In short: book a cita previa, pay the fee, then go in person to the police foreigners' office or the designated office. Appointments can be scarce in some cities, so book as soon as you land, or earlier if the booking system lets you.

If your permit is granted inside Spain instead, the month runs from the date it is granted.

What happens if you miss the deadline

Missing the TIE deadline without a justified reason is a minor infraction. The fine can be up to 500 euros, though a warning or a low fine is common. It does not by itself lead to expulsion. Still, avoid it: keep proof of your attempts to get an appointment, such as screenshots, in case you are late.

Who this does not apply to

EU citizens do not get a TIE. They get a registration certificate instead, so this deadline does not apply to them.

Timeline and deadlines

• Enter Spain within the validity period printed on your visa sticker: within the visa window, often up to three months

• Book an appointment (cita previa) and pay the fee (form 790-012): as soon as you arrive

• Apply in person for the TIE card at the police foreigners' office: within one month of entering Spain (latest 30 days after entry date)

What to watch out for

• Missing the TIE deadline can cost you a fine: Applying for the TIE card late without a good reason is a minor infraction. It can bring a fine of up to 500 euros, though a warning or a low fine is more usual. It does not by itself lead to expulsion. Book your appointment as soon as you arrive and apply within one month of entering Spain. If you are already late, apply now and keep proof of any reason for the delay.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I enter Spain after my visa has expired?

If you enter Spain after your visa has expired, the visa is no longer valid for entry. The entry window is the period printed on your visa sticker, and it is often up to three months.

Where do I apply for the TIE card after arriving?

You apply in person at the police (Policía Nacional) foreigners' office or a designated office. You first book an appointment (cita previa) and pay the fee (form 790-012). Do this early, so the appointment falls inside your deadline.

Will I be expelled if I miss the TIE deadline?

No, missing the TIE deadline does not by itself lead to expulsion. It is a minor infraction, usually met with a warning or a low fine. Apply as soon as you realise you are late.

Does the TIE deadline apply to EU citizens?

No, the TIE deadline does not apply to EU citizens, who get a registration certificate instead. It applies to non-EU nationals who enter on a long-stay visa or are granted a permit inside Spain.