Guide to Return Authorization for Non-EU Residents in Spain

Table of Contents

Description

What is it?

Return authorization (Autorización de Regreso) is a permit allowing non-EU residents in Spain to re-enter the country if they need to travel abroad while their residency renewal is being processed.

Who needs it?

Non-EU residents in Spain who have an expired residency card and are waiting for a renewal but need to travel outside Spain temporarily.

Procedure

Ensure Eligibility:
- Confirm that you have a valid reason for requesting a Return Authorization.
- Ensure your residency card is either expired or in the process of being renewed.
Gather Required Documents:
- Valid passport and copy.
- Expired residency card (or the one in the process of being renewed).
- Renewal acknowledgment letter (Resguardo de Solicitud de Renovación).
- Proof of reason for travel (e.g., travel tickets).
Make an Appointment:
- Schedule an appointment at your nearest Immigration Office using the online appointment system (Cita Previa) .
Submit Documents:
- Attend your appointment with all the required documents.
- Pay the corresponding fee (Tasa 790 012).
- Submit your application and documents.
Await Decision:
- After submitting your documents, await the decision. This process can take a few days.
Collect the Authorization:
- Once approved, return to the Immigration Office to collect your authorization.

Required Documents

Valid Passport: Original and copy.
Expired Residency Card: Original and copy, or proof of renewal in process.
Renewal Acknowledgment Letter (Resguardo): Obtained when you submit your renewal application.
Travel Proof: Tickets or other justifications for the need to travel.
Tasa 790 012: Proof of payment for the fee required (usually paid at a bank).

Providers that can do it for you

(We are currently curating the best providers. If you are or know a provider, please contact us or edit the page directly)

Provider	Website	Timelines	Cost

Additional details

Processing Time: The processing of a Return Authorization can take a few days, so plan accordingly.
Fees: There is a fee associated with this permit (Tasa 790 012), usually around 10-20 EUR.
Validity: The Return Authorization is typically valid for 90 days from the issue date.
Appointment Booking: Appointments can fill up quickly; book as early as possible through the Cita Previa system .

Contribute

Improve this article by using the contact form or editing it through our open-source GitHub repository: tramitit/guides