Return Authorization in Spain: What It Is, When You Need It, and When It Won’t Work

If your residency in Spain is currently being processed and you need to travel, it is normal for a very specific question to arise: Can I leave Spain and re-enter without problems if I don’t have my physical card yet?

In many cases, the answer involves a little-known but fundamental document: the Return Authorization (Autorización de Regreso).

In this article, we explain what it is, when it is granted, what it actually permits, and, above all, in which situations it does not work and could cause you problems at the border.

What is the Return Authorization?

The Return Authorization is an official document that allows a foreign national to leave and re-enter Spain when their residency or legal stay is being processed and they do not yet have a valid Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).

It is important to highlight that the Return Authorization does not allow you to travel freely throughout Europe or the Schengen Area. This authorization is designed exclusively for exits from and entries into Spain, typically when the trip is outside the Schengen Area.

It is not a substitute for a residency card nor is it a freedom of movement permit.

In which cases is the Return Authorization granted?

The Return Authorization is not granted automatically. It is only appropriate in specific scenarios.

Renewal or extension in process

It is granted when:

• You held a valid residency or student stay authorization.
• You have applied for the renewal or extension within the legal deadline.
• The file is pending and you do not have the new card yet.

In these cases, the Return Authorization allows you to travel while the administrative procedure is still ongoing.

Initial authorization granted, but no TIE yet

It can also be granted when:

• There is already a favorable resolution for an initial residency or stay authorization.
• You have not yet been able to complete the fingerprinting or collect the TIE.
• You have a justified need to travel during that period.

The Return Authorization covers the “gap” between the administrative concession and physically obtaining the card.

Theft, loss, or damage of the TIE

This is common for unforeseen trips. It is granted when:

• The card was valid, but it has been lost, stolen, or damaged.
• The process for a duplicate TIE has been initiated.
• There is a real need to travel before receiving the new card.

Exceptional circumstances duly justified

In specific cases, it may be granted if:

• The trip responds to a situation of necessity (for example, serious family reasons).
• Documentation proving this is provided.
• The authority considers that exceptional circumstances exist.

This scenario is evaluated case by case.

What exactly does the Return Authorization allow?

It DOES allow:

• Leaving Spain.
• Re-entering Spain within the granted period.
• Normally conducting a single round trip (exit and return).

It DOES NOT allow:

• Traveling through the Schengen Area as if residency were fully in force.
• Circulating freely through other European countries.
• Staying outside Spain beyond the authorized period.

Using it outside of these conditions can generate serious problems at border control.

What documentation is required and how to request it step-by-step?

To apply for the Return Authorization, you will normally need the following:

1. Book an appointment

The application is made by appointment through the official ICP Plus platform: Access the Public Administrations Headquarters

Once inside, follow this route: Province → Any office → TRÁMITES POLICÍA NACIONAL → Autorización de regreso.

2. Standard documentation

You must present:

• Proof that the immigration procedure is in progress (renewal, modification, or authorization already granted).
• Valid passport.
• Proof of travel, such as tickets or a reservation.

3. Official Form EX-13

It is mandatory to present the official application form for the Return Authorization (EX-13), available here: Download Form EX-13.

4. Payment of the administrative fee

The fee must be paid before attending the appointment. You can do this via the following official link: Pay Fee 790 012

You must bring both the form and the proof of payment.

Important: if you meet the requirements, the Return Authorization is usually issued on the same day as the appointment at the police station.

How is the administrative fee for the Return Authorization paid?

Payment of the administrative fee is a mandatory step to apply for the Return Authorization and must be done before attending the appointment at the police station.

Step 1: Access the official link

The fee is paid through the National Police electronic headquarters, at the following official link: https://sede.policia.gob.es/Tasa790_012/

Step 2: Fill out the fee form

Within the link, you must:

• Select fee 790 code 012.
• Fill in your personal data exactly as they appear in your passport or immigration file.
• Choose the concept corresponding to the Return Authorization (Autorización de Regreso).

It is important to review the data well before continuing to avoid errors.

Step 3: Make the payment

The fee can normally be paid:

• Online, with a bank card, or
• By downloading the form to pay subsequently at a collaborating bank.

The amount may vary, but it is usually small.

Step 4: Save and bring the receipt

Once payment is made:

• Download or save the proof of payment.
• Bring it printed or in digital format on the day of your appointment.

Important recommendation: We recommend you pay the fee sufficiently in advance, preferably the same day you request the appointment, to avoid technical problems or last-minute delays.

Important aspects you should not overlook

Before traveling, it is advisable to keep the following in mind:

• It is not granted for travel within the Schengen Area.
• It does not replace the residency card.
• It has a limited and specific validity.
• Using it incorrectly can cause incidents at the border.

Therefore, before leaving Spain, it is essential to check if it is truly appropriate to request it and if the destination of the trip is compatible with this type of authorization.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Return Authorization