Applicants who obtain a Spanish residence visa abroad must book a fingerprint (‘toma de huellas’) appointment within 30 days of arrival to collect their Foreigner Identity Card (TIE). An España Abogados update published on 30 October summarises the documents and €16 ‘tasa 790 012’ fee required in 2026. Key change: applicants under social-security coverage (e.g., highly-qualified professionals) must bring their official employment registration print-out dated the same day or the appointment will be refused. Digital-nomad and entrepreneur permit holders are exempt from that rule but must show proof of private insurance covering at least €30,000. Police stations in Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia released blocks of new appointments for the Christmas period after complaints that slots were fully booked through January. Lawyers recommend using the notifying-email option when booking so the system immediately confirms the appointment and attaches a QR code that speeds access to the police building.
Source: España Abogados
