My NIE has expired: what do I do?
If your residence card has expired or is about to, you may still have time. What matters is how many days have passed and acting as soon as possible.
First: check the date on your card
What expires is your residence permit (and the card that proves it). Depending on how much time has passed, the situation is very different:
- It hasn’t expired yet: you can renew in the 2 months before the expiry date. It is the best moment.
- It expired less than 3 months ago: you can still apply for renewal, although the immigration office may impose a fine for applying late.
- More than 3 months have passed: you can no longer renew the normal way. Your case needs an individual review to see what other options you have.
Can I work with an expired card?
If you applied for renewal on time, your permit remains valid while the immigration office decides, and you can keep working. The receipt of your application is what proves it, so keep it safe: with us you will always have it in the app.
Can I travel outside Spain?
With an expired card and the renewal in progress, to leave Spain and come back without problems you normally need a return authorisation (autorización de regreso). If you need to travel, ask us before buying your ticket.
What to do now
- Check the expiry date on your card.
- Check your case in the box: a few simple questions, free of charge.
- If you can renew, you will see the final price with everything included. You pay, sign online and upload your documents with the app.
- We pay the fees and file your renewal with the immigration office.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to renew if it has already expired?
Up to 3 months after the expiry date, although you may be fined for applying late. After that, it is no longer a renewal and your case must be reviewed.
Can I be fined for renewing late?
Yes. If you apply after the expiry date (within 3 months), the immigration office may open a penalty procedure. That is why it is best to renew before it expires.
Can I keep working if I renew on time?
Yes. If the application is filed on time, your permit stays valid until a decision is made.
What if more than 3 months have passed?
Renewal is no longer possible this way. Every case is different and needs an individual review.