Travelling Home for Christmas? A Digital Nomad’s guide to the TIE and Return Authorisation

• If possible, wait until you receive your TIE before travelling.
• Avoid crossing borders with only your passport and approval letter, as this can be risky.
• A Return Authorisation may be an option in certain circumstances, but requirements can vary.
• If you need to travel urgently or are unsure about your options, seek professional advice before booking your trip.

Well, you have a few options but first...

What is a Return Authorisation?

A Return Authorisation is an official document that allows you to leave Spain and re-enter the country when you do not have a valid TIE to travel with, for example, because your residence card has expired and you are waiting for its renewal, or because you have lost it. It is valid for a maximum of 90 days and allows you to travel in and out of Spain multiple times while it remains valid.

When do you need a return authorisation?

You might be wondering when you actually need a Return Authorisation. You generally need one when travelling outside Spain and you do not have a valid residence card to use when returning. Spanish immigration regulations provide for the following situations: -Your residence permit is being renewed or extended (you should be able to provide proof of submission) -Your TIE has been lost, stolen or damaged. In this case, you must have already applied for a replacement card.

There is also a third but less common situation: if your first residence authorisation has already been granted but you have not yet received your TIE, you may apply for a Return Authorisation in case of emergency, incases when your trip is necessary and exceptional circumstances justify it.

If you have Schengen days left, this authorisation is NOT for you.

What if I haven't found a TIE appointment yet and I still want to travel?

You can leave your TIE appointment for later, but (there is always a but) there is something important you should know: travelling across borders with only your passport and residence approval letter can be risky.

Traditionally, Return Authorisations were issued after applicants had attended their TIE appointment. However, some of our clients have recently reported that certain police stations are now issuing them with just the residence approval letter and, depending on where you are in Spain, sometimes even without requiring a prior appointment. Practices may vary between police stations, so we recommend checking with the nearest office before making any travel arrangements.

What does Anemoss recommend?

Unless you are facing a genuine emergency that you can properly justify, our recommendation is to wait until you have received your TIE before travelling. It is usually the most straightforward option and, of course, a much less stressful one!

However, if you're unsure about what to do and are really hoping to spend Christmas with your loved ones, don't hesitate to get in touch. We'd be happy to look at your situation and help you find the best way forward.