EX-17
EX-17 is the official application form for the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero), the biometric residence card that all non EU citizens living in Spain must obtain. Since Brexit, this includes British nationals. The TIE is a physical card, similar in size to a credit card, that displays your NIE number, your photograph, your type of residence permit, and its validity period. It replaces the old "tarjeta de residencia" system and serves as your primary identification document for daily life in Spain.
Who needs EX-17
Every non EU citizen who has been granted a residence authorisation in Spain must apply for the TIE within 30 days of entering Spain or within 30 days of receiving their residence authorisation, whichever is later. This includes people on work visas, student visas, family reunification visas, the Digital Nomad Visa, the Non Lucrative Visa, and any other residence permit. British nationals who moved to Spain after 1 January 2021 also fall under this requirement and use EX-17 (not EX-23, which was for the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement cohort).
What EX-17 covers
EX-17 is used for several different actions: the initial application for the TIE after your residence permit is granted, renewal of the TIE when it expires, replacement in case of loss or theft, and updates when your personal data changes (name change, new passport number). The form has checkboxes to indicate which action you are requesting. You select one and provide the supporting documentation for that specific action.
Where and how to submit
You submit EX-17 at the Oficina de Extranjería or the Policía Nacional (Comisaría), depending on your province. A cita previa is required. The process involves two appointments: one to submit the application and documents (where your fingerprints are taken), and a second to collect the physical card, typically four to eight weeks later. Bring the original and a copy of every document. The officer keeps the copies and verifies against the originals.
Documents you need alongside EX-17
The exact documents depend on your type of residence permit, but the standard set includes: your completed EX-17 form, your original passport plus a full copy, three recent passport sized photographs (white background), the paid Modelo 790 code 012 fee receipt, proof of your residence authorisation (the resolution or visa in your passport), your empadronamiento certificate, and in some cases a medical certificate or proof of health insurance. Always check the specific requirements for your permit type and province before your appointment.
The 30 day deadline
You must apply within 30 days. If you miss this deadline, you can still apply, but you may face a minor administrative fine. More practically, not having the TIE means you cannot prove your legal residence status to employers, banks, or landlords. While your passport with the visa stamp is technically valid proof, the TIE is what institutions actually expect to see.
Renewal
TIE cards are typically issued for one or two years initially, then renewed for longer periods (up to five years). Renewal must be requested within the 60 days before expiry or within 90 days after. Late renewal applications are accepted but may trigger administrative complications. The renewal uses the same EX-17 form with the renewal checkbox selected.
