The authorisation to return to Spain is an official document that allows foreigners to leave Spain and return legally while they are in the process of renewing, extending or issuing a new residence or stay card.
This temporary permit offers a legal solution for those who, while in the process of applying for or awaiting their Foreign Identity Card (TIE), need to leave the country for personal or professional reasons. Its main function is to avoid problems at border control when re-entering Spain.
Many foreigners mistakenly believe that they can travel freely once they have submitted their application for a stay or residence permit to the Foreigners’ Office, or while they are waiting for their Foreign Identity Card (TIE) to be issued. However, without a return authorisation, there is a risk of encountering problems when trying to re-enter Spain. This document is essential, as it guarantees your re-entry into the country without legal setbacks or conflicts with border control or immigration authorities.
Who can apply for return authorisation?
The regulations establish that return authorisation is issued mainly to those who are applying for an extension or renewal of their residence permit. However, depending on the particular circumstances of the foreign national, the police may authorise its issuance even in other cases, provided that there are justified reasons.
Important: It is not possible to apply for a return authorisation if an application has not been previously submitted to the Immigration Office or, where applicable, if the TIE is not pending issuance. In other words, without a file in progress, there is no legal basis for granting this authorisation.
Essential requirements for applying
Before starting your application, make sure you meet all the requirements set out in the immigration regulations.
- Valid passport. Proof of application for renewal or extension, or a receipt showing that you are awaiting delivery of your foreigner’s identity card (TIE).
- TIE
- Proof of the reason for your trip (this can be a letter, tickets, family or work reasons).
- Proof of the reason for travel (this can be a letter, tickets, family or work reasons).
- Proof of payment of the corresponding administrative fees.
- Valid identity document (even if it has expired, it must be accompanied by the receipt for the renewal process).
Valid identity document (even if it has expired, it must be accompanied by the receipt for the renewal process).
Steps to apply for return authorisation
The process is relatively simple if you follow the steps carefully and anticipate potential problems.
You can go to the Foreigners’ Office or an authorised police station. You will need to make an appointment in advance on the Ministry of the Interior’s website.
On the website, go to “cita previa extranjería” (foreigners’ appointments), select your province and then the office that suits you best, and under “trámites policía nacional” (national police procedures), select “Autorización de regreso” (return authorisation).
Documentation required for return authorisation
One of the key aspects of the process is to carefully prepare all the documentation required to apply for authorisation to return to Spain. The absence of a single document can lead to significant delays or even the rejection of the application, so it is essential to carefully review all the requirements before submitting the application.
Basic documents you must submit
- Original valid passport.
- Proof of renewal or extension application: This document certifies that you have initiated the process to renew your residence permit or extend your stay. It must be dated prior to the application for return authorisation.
- Failing that, the receipt for the application for a Foreign Identity Card (TIE) is also valid, provided that it is based on a favourable decision that has already been notified.
- Proof of the reason for the trip: This may be an explanatory letter, a plane ticket, a travel reservation, a medical certificate, or a document proving an urgent personal, professional or academic need.
- Fee paid (form 790-code 012): You must provide proof of payment of the corresponding administrative fee. It is important to keep the original document stamped by the bank.
- Your foreigner identity card (TIE): Even if it has expired, you must include it. If you do not yet have a TIE because it is your first card, a copy of your long-term visa and the receipt for the initial application will suffice.
- Completed EX13 form: This is the official application form for return authorisation. You can download it from the Ministry’s website or collect it from the Foreigners’ Office.
Can you travel to other countries with the return authorisation?
Recommendations before travelling
- It is not compulsory to purchase tickets, but we do recommend that you have reserved tickets.
- Have your complete passport (all pages), including previous ones if you have renewed it.
Recommendations upon return
- Ensure that your authorisation is valid.
- Ensure that you have only been away for the specified period.
- Ensure that the exit and entry stamps match the authorisation.
- Failure to comply with any of these points could cause serious problems, including being unable to re-enter the country.
Can I travel to other countries with the return authorisation?
The return authorisation only allows you to re-enter Spain, but does not enable you to travel freely through other countries in the Schengen area. If you stop over in another European country, you may encounter problems at airport border control. Therefore, it is recommended that you choose direct flights to Spain to avoid complications.
FAQs
- How many times can I use a return authorisation?
As long as it is valid.
- Can I leave the Schengen area with the return authorisation?
No. It only allows you to return directly to Spain. It cannot be used for other Schengen destinations.
- How long before my trip should I apply for it?
Ideally, you should apply at least 7 working days before your trip.
- Can someone else collect the authorisation for me?
No, it is a personal process.
- Can it be refused, even if I meet the requirements?
Yes, if the reason for travel is not considered sufficiently justified or the documentation is incomplete.
For further information, please visit the official website: authorisation to Return
