When the card becomes obligatory
Any non-EU national whose stay in Spain exceeds six months — for employment, study, family or non-lucrative residence — must obtain a TIE once their visa or residence authorisation has been approved.
The fingerprint stage (toma de huellas)
You book a toma de huellas appointment, attend in person with your photographs, the EX-17 and the settled fee, give your fingerprints, and return to collect the finished card a few weeks later.
In Bilbao
The Bilbao office sets the pace for the tie card across the Basque Country. Our team books your appointment, checks your documentación, and walks you through the day itself.
Frequently asked questions
Its validity tracks your residence permit — usually between one and five years — and it is renewed before that date passes.
Yes. The TIE is your legal proof of residence in Bilbao, and you should be able to produce it on request.