Losing your residency card (TIE) in Spain or outside Spain can be inconvenient for your daily life or travel plans. The residency card is a crucial document proving your legal residency in Spain. If lost, you should immediately follow a series of steps to remedy the situation.
Step 1: Report the Theft and Obtain a Receipt
Whether you are in Spain or abroad, the first step should be to report the theft at the nearest police station. Explain the situation in detail and ensure you get a police report receipt (denuncia). This document is crucial for the reapplication of your residency card, serving as official proof of your card’s loss.
Step 2: Report Again Upon Returning to Spain
If your residency card was lost outside Spain, you should report the loss again at a local police station upon returning to Spain, presenting the police report receipt you previously obtained. This is because the Spanish authorities may need to record the loss of your residency certificate in their system.
Step 3: Reapply for Your Residency Card
After losing your residency card, you should contact the local Foreigner’s Office (Oficina de Extranjería) or the foreigners’ department at the police station as soon as possible to start the reapplication process. The specific steps are as follows:
- Appointment: Usually, you need to make an appointment online to submit your application for a new residency card at the Foreigner’s Office or designated police station.
- Prepare Documents: When submitting your application, you will need to provide the following documents:
- The police report receipt.
- A valid passport or other proof of identity document.
- A declaration of the loss of the residency card, if applicable.
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- You may also need to fill out specific forms (such as the EX-17 form) and pay the associated fees.
- Submit the Application: On the day of your appointment, bring all the prepared documents to the Foreigner’s Office or police station to submit your application.
- Waiting Time: After submitting your application, the waiting time to receive a new residency card can vary depending on the region and individual cases. Typically, this process could take from 30-45 days.
Tips
- Maintain patience throughout the process and closely monitor your appointment and application status.
- Keep all copies and receipts of documents submitted to the authorities for future reference.
- Avoid unnecessary international travel before receiving your new residency card, as entering without it could cause issues at customs.
In summary, having your residency card stolen or lost is an issue that needs to be addressed swiftly and seriously. By following the steps outlined above and preparing all necessary documents, you will be able to smoothly apply for and receive a new residency card, continuing your life and travels in Spain.