If you’ve already received approval for your Spanish residency and are now wondering what’s next—the answer is your TIE card. And to get it, you’ll need to go through a process called the “toma de huellas”, or fingerprint appointment.
This step can be confusing, especially if you're unfamiliar with Spanish bureaucracy. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to request your fingerprint appointment in Madrid, what documents you need, when appointments open, and how to avoid common mistakes.
What Is the “Toma de Huellas”?
The “toma de huellas” is the official fingerprinting process required to issue your TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero)—your foreigner ID card in Spain. This card is proof that you’re living in Spain legally and it includes your NIE number, photo, and fingerprint data.
You only need to do this once—after your residency application has been approved.
Documents You Need Before Booking
Before even trying to book your appointment, make sure you have all of this ready:
✅ Favorable resolution of your residency application
✅ Valid passport + a photocopy
✅ Completed EX-17 form
✅ Proof of payment for Tasa 790 Código 012
✅ One recent passport-sized photo
💡Tip: Missing even one of these can get you turned away. If you're not sure your documents are in order, I can check them for you.
How to Book the Toma de Huellas Appointment
Here’s the process step-by-step:
- Go to the official website:
https://icp.administracionelectronica.gob.es/icpplustiem/citar?p=28&locale=es
- Select “Madrid” as your province.
- Choose the procedure:
“Policía – Toma de Huellas (Expedición de Tarjeta)”
- Fill in your personal details and choose a date/time from the list of available slots.
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When Are Appointments Released?
Appointments are limited and go fast. But there’s a system to it:
🕛 New appointments are usually released Monday to Friday at 12:00 and again around 20:00.
💡Pro tip: Log in 5–10 minutes before those times, keep refreshing, and be quick when a slot appears.
What to Bring to the Appointment
On the day of your appointment, bring:
- Your passport (original + copy)
- EX-17 form
- Tasa 790 012 proof of payment
- One recent photo
- A printout of your appointment confirmation
- Copy of your residency approval
Everything should be printed and organized. Some locations won't accept digital copies.
Where Does the Appointment Take Place?
Appointments happen at police stations in Madrid that handle foreign documentation. The exact location will be listed when you confirm your appointment. Be sure to check the address and arrive early.
What Happens After the Fingerprint Appointment?
Once your fingerprints are taken, the officer will give you a resguardo—a paper that says you’ve completed the process. This is not your TIE, but you’ll need it to collect your card.
Your actual TIE will be ready in about 30 to 45 days, and you’ll need another cita previa to pick it up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here’s what trips up most people:
🚫 Booking the wrong appointment type
🚫 Filling out the EX-17 incorrectly
🚫 Forgetting to bring original documents
🚫 Not printing your tasa payment proof
🚫 Missing your appointment or arriving late
All of these can mean starting over—which is frustrating when appointments are scarce.
Need Help with the TIE Process?
I help English-speaking expats in Madrid handle this whole process—from booking the appointment to prepping your paperwork and even attending the appointment with you if needed.
Here’s what I offer:
✅ I’ll book your fingerprint appointment (and notify you when slots open)
✅ I’ll fill out your EX-17 and tasa form correctly
✅ I’ll make sure all your documents are complete and translated if necessary
✅ I’ll walk you through what to expect at your appointment
✅ Optional: I can accompany you in person if you're nervous about the language
Why Work With Me?
I’m not a lawyer, I’m a virtual assistant based in Madrid who’s helped dozens of expats get their NIE, TIE, padrón, and social security sorted—without the headache.
This is not just a job for me; I’ve been through the process myself, and I know how stressful it can be when Spanish bureaucracy doesn’t make sense.
Book a Free 30-Minute Consultation
If you're in Madrid and need help with your TIE or fingerprint appointment, let’s talk. I offer a free Zoom consultation where we can:
- Go over your situation
- Review your paperwork
- Plan your next steps
📅 Click here to book your free call
Or email me at laylarojas.ch@gmail.com
Final Thoughts
Getting your TIE in Madrid doesn’t have to be stressful—if you’re prepared.
✅ Know the documents
✅ Know when appointments open
✅ Show up ready
✅ Ask for help if you need it
Whether you're a digital nomad, a student, or moving here with family, getting your TIE is one of the final steps to feeling truly settled in Spain.
And if you want to skip the guesswork? I’m here for that.
👉 Let me help you get your TIE the easy way.
