What expires and what does not
| Item | Does it expire? | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| The NIE number | No | Nothing. It is yours permanently |
| The TIE card | Yes | A new one is issued when the permit is renewed |
| The residence permit | Yes | Renewal must be requested in time |
That is why search engines are full of people asking about «renewing the NIE» and finding answers that do not fit: the right question is which permit you hold and when it runs out.
When to file
Renewal deadlines and the requirements for each type of permit are in the Immigration Regulation approved by Royal Decree 1155/2024, amended by Royal Decree 316/2026. It matters to read the current wording: the previous regulation was in force for thirteen years and much of what circulates online still refers to it.
The practical rule is not to wait for the last day. Filing in time prevents your status from becoming irregular while the administration decides, and Law 39/2015 regulates what happens if it does not decide in time.
No appointment, online
Many renewals are filed online and need no in-person appointment at all: the appointment is only needed afterwards, for fingerprinting if a new card is to be issued. If you have a digital certificate, you can file it yourself. If not, a registered gestor administrativo can do it on your behalf with a professional certificate.
First of all, check the state of your file: immigration file status.
If the date has already passed
Do not let it drift and do not travel without checking first. There is a later margin in which the application is still accepted, with consequences that depend on the type of permit and the time elapsed. It is one of those situations where a fifteen-minute consultation prevents a problem lasting months.
Is your expiry date getting close?
We prepare and file the renewal online, with the deadline under control. Without depending on appointments.
Frequently asked questions
Does the NIE expire?
No. The number is permanent. The TIE card and the residence permit it documents expire.
How far in advance is it renewed?
The deadlines are set by the Immigration Regulation for each type of permit. Check the current wording of Royal Decree 1155/2024.
Do I need an appointment to renew?
In many cases no: the renewal is filed online. An appointment is needed afterwards for fingerprinting if a new card is issued.
What if I file late?
There is a later admission margin, with consequences that depend on the case. Check before acting.
Does my number change on renewal?
No. The NIE is the same for life; the card and the dates change.
Legal basis
- Organic Law 4/2000 on the rights and freedoms of foreign nationals in Spain
- Royal Decree 1155/2024, Regulation implementing Organic Law 4/2000 (consolidated text)
- Royal Decree 316/2026 amending the immigration Regulation
- Order PJC/617/2025 setting immigration and foreigners' fees
- Law 39/2015 on Common Administrative Procedure, art. 14 on electronic dealings with the administration
Official sources
- Electronic office: immigration appointments
- Status of immigration files
- Catalogue of immigration procedures
Written by Irina Klein. Reviewed by Elena Alonso Volostnova, registered gestora administrativa (ICGA Valencia). Updated on 5 October 2026. This page is general information and does not replace personalised advice on your case.