🛂 Just Arrived in Málaga with a Family Visa? Here’s What to Do Next
Getting your TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is the final and essential step to activate your family visa in Spain.
Whether you’ve arrived as a:
-
👩❤️👨 Spouse
-
👶 Dependent child
-
👴 Parent of a resident
— you must book your TIE appointment in Málaga within 30 days of entry.
🗂️ What Is the TIE and Why Do You Need It?
The TIE is your official residence card that:
-
Confirms your legal stay
-
Allows you to work (if eligible)
-
Grants access to healthcare, banking, and schools
-
Enables travel within the Schengen area
📌 Without it, your visa isn’t valid for day-to-day use.
📍 Where to Apply for the TIE in Málaga
All TIE cards are issued by the Policía Nacional in Málaga. Main location:
📌 Comisaría Provincial de Málaga – Calle Juan XXIII, 82
-
TIE appointments must be made online only
-
Choose: Toma de Huellas (Expedición de Tarjeta)
✅ We can book appointments and prepare all forms for you.
📄 Documents Required for TIE in Málaga
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport | With visa and entry stamp |
| Resolution favorable | Your approval notice from Extranjería |
| EX-17 form | Completed and signed (we handle this) |
| Model 790-012 | Paid government fee (€16.08) |
| Photographs | 3×4 cm, white background |
| Empadronamiento (padron) | Proof of address in Málaga |
📌 Bring originals + one copy of each document.
📆 TIE Appointment Timeline in Málaga
| Step | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Appointment availability | Usually 1–3 weeks |
| Fingerprinting | Done during the appointment |
| TIE pickup | 3–5 weeks after appointment |
➡️ Total process time: 4–8 weeks from arrival to card in hand.
💼 Can You Work Before Getting the TIE?
🛑 No. Even if your visa includes work rights (e.g. EU family card), you cannot begin employment until you physically receive your TIE.
🏥 Public Healthcare Access in Málaga
Once you receive your TIE and have registered on the padron, you may:
-
Access public healthcare (if your sponsor is employed or registered)
-
Use private insurance (required if sponsor is on NLV or freelancer path)
✅ We advise on Convenio Especial if you fall between categories.
⚠️ Avoid These Common TIE Mistakes in Málaga
-
❌ Booking the wrong appointment type
-
❌ Missing the 30-day deadline after arrival
-
❌ Bringing photocopies only (no originals)
-
❌ Using outdated or unpaid Modelo 790-012
-
❌ Skipping padron registration
👨⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Málaga Helps
✅ We:
-
Book your TIE appointment
-
Fill out EX-17 + Modelo 790
-
Check all required documents
-
Attend with you (or represent you)
-
Help with padron registration
-
Handle appeals or rejections
📞 Book a Consultation in Málaga
Ready to secure your Spanish residence card in Málaga after a family visa?