Re-entry permit (Autorización de Regreso) in Spain: When to apply for it?
If you live in Spain with a residence permit and you are thinking of travelling outside the Schengen Area, there is one document that you cannot overlook: the re-entry permit (autorización de regreso). This authorisation is the key to being able to leave the country and return without any problems when your residence card has expired or is up for renewal.
In this article we explain, in a clear and simple way, what the re-entry permit is and when you need it.
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Table of contents
- What is the re-entry permit (Autorización de Regreso)?
- When is the Re-entry permit required?
- How long is the Re-entry permit valid?
- Practical tips
What is the Re-entry permit (Autorización de Regreso)?
The re-entry permit (autorización de regreso) is an official document issued by the immigration authorities in Spain. It is intended for non-EU foreign nationals who need to leave the country while their foreigner identity card (TIE) is expired or in the process of renewal.
In short: it is your safe-conduct to be able to re-enter Spain legally even if you do not yet have your new residence card in hand.
When is the Re-entry permit required?
You need a re-entry permit if:
- Your TIE has expired or you are renewing it
- You are not a citizen of the European Union
- You are leaving Spain with intention to return
If you travel without this document under these conditions, you could have serious problems re-entering Spain, even if you have already started the process of renewing your permit.
How long is the Re-entry permit valid?
The re-entry permit is valid for a maximum of 90 days. In other words, it gives you three months to leave and return to Spain without any problems.
But be careful: the 90 days start to run from the moment it is granted, not from the day you travel. So it is important to calculate the dates carefully.
You should take the document with you on your trip and present it at the border when you return to Spain.
Attention! Please note that although the re-entry permit is valid for 90 days, the document may be stamped or withdrawn at the border. In this case, if you are planning another trip during the same period, you will still need to apply for another re-entry permit for this second trip.
Practical tips
During holiday periods, such as Christmas and summer, applications for re-entry permit increase considerably. This can lead to delays in appointments and in the issuing of the document.
Our advice: plan in advance and avoid leaving it to the last minute.
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Need help applying for the re-entry permit? Contact Anywr Spain for more information. We help you with everything about international mobility, immigration and relocation services in Spain.
