TIE fingerprinting appointment
Fingerprinting is the mandatory in-person step to obtain the TIE. Without it, the card is not manufactured. And getting the appointment is by far the biggest bottleneck in the process.
Where to book the appointment
On the government's electronic portal: sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es. Select your province and look for the procedure "Policía — Toma de Huellas (Expedición de Tarjeta)" or "Policía — Expedición de Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero".
Why is it so difficult?
Appointments are released in batches and run out within minutes, especially in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Málaga. The system does not allow booking far in advance and demand far exceeds the supply of appointments.
Tips for finding an appointment
- Try first thing in the morning (7:00-8:00) or at midnight, when new slots are released.
- Try nearby provinces. You are not required to do it in your province of registration.
- Check several times a day. Cancellations release individual appointments.
- Have all your documentation ready before looking for an appointment, so you do not lose the one you find because of missing papers.
Automatic appointment pilot programme (2026)
Since January 2026, a pilot programme in L'Hospitalet de Llobregat (Barcelona) automatically assigns fingerprinting appointments within about 15 days of a favourable resolution. If the pilot works well, the Government has announced it will extend it to other provinces.
What to bring
- Valid passport (original).
- Completed and signed EX-17 form.
- Proof of payment of fee 790 code 012 (three copies stamped by the bank).
- One passport-size photo (colour, white background, 32×26 mm).
- Favourable resolution of the residence authorisation.
- Recent registration certificate.
- Any additional documents for your permit type.
If you need a representative to attend the appointment for you, you need a specific power of attorney. At Notaría Online we prepare it.