Guide: prepare a complete application file: appointment booking

Official appointment channel

Each province enables its system: Ministry electronic portal, regional Foreigners Office website or National Police portal. Avoid unofficial intermediaries.

Selecting the procedure

Choose the exact category (fingerprints, TIE collection, application submission, etc.). A wrong category may prevent you being served on the day.

Preparation

Have your passport, file number, fee receipt and specific documentation ready. Arrive 15 minutes early with copies and originals.

Appointments in Madrid and large cities

Demand is high; try several time slots and check the system early in the morning. Some provinces release cancelled slots during the day.

If no appointments are available

Check alternative channels (mail, registry, electronic submission). Do not attend without an appointment unless provincial rules expressly allow it.

After the appointment

Keep the receipt, verify TIE or application details are correct and note the estimated resolution or collection deadline.

Step by step

1. Download the official procedure sheet and corresponding EX form.
2. Create a checklist with every required document.
3. Apostille or legalise foreign documents before translating them.
4. Pay the fee and keep the payment receipt.
5. Check validity of certificates (criminal records, empadronamiento, etc.).
6. Submit at the registry with copies and originals for verification.

Requirements

• Correct EX form for the ground you are applying under.
• Copies and originals of passport and documents proving the legal ground.
• Fees paid with the current official code and model.
• Sworn translations of documents not in Spanish.
• Photographs and receipts as required by the procedure sheet.