Renew Your Spanish Residency: A Guide for Canadians
Your first year (or years) in Spain has flown by, and now it’s time to renew Spanish residency. This process, known as *modificación* or *prórroga*, is crucial for maintaining your legal status. This guide will walk you through the key requirements and steps to ensure a smooth and successful renewal.
Understanding the Process to Renew Spanish Residency
The Authorization to Reside
The first and most important step is renewing your autorización de residencia. This is the legal permission to continue living in Spain under the terms of your visa (Non-Lucrative, Digital Nomad). This is typically done online via an immigration platform.
The TIE Card
Once your residency authorization has been approved, you must then apply for a new physical TIE card. This is a separate, in-person process at the police station to get your updated photo ID.
Key Requirements to Renew Spanish Residency
- Maintained Financial Means: You must prove you still meet the financial requirements for your specific visa type.
- List ItemContinuous Residency: You must not have been outside of Spain for more than a specified period (typically 6 months within a year).
- Valid Health Insurance: You need to have a new, comprehensive private health insurance policy for the upcoming renewal period.
- No Criminal Record: You must maintain a clean criminal record in Spain.
- Timely Application: You must apply within the correct window: typically 60 days before your TIE expires or up to 90 days after.
The Renewal Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Specific Renewal Scenarios for Canadians
Ensure a Smooth Process to Renew Spanish Residency
The process to renew Spanish residency is critical, and any errors can jeopardize your legal status in Spain. Our trusted partner specializes in managing renewals for Canadian expats, ensuring your application is submitted correctly and on time.
FAQ
When is the earliest I can apply for renewal?
You can typically submit your renewal application up to 60 calendar days before your current TIE card expires.
What happens if my TIE expires while my renewal is being processed?
As long as you submitted your application on time, your residency rights are extended until a decision is made. You can get a special authorization to travel (*autorización de regreso*) if you need to leave and re-enter Spain during this time.
Do I need a new criminal record check from Canada?
No, for a standard renewal, you do not need to provide a new criminal record check from Canada. The requirement is to have a clean record within Spain.
Can I switch from one type of residency to another?
Yes, it is often possible to modify your residency. For example, you might be able to switch from a student visa to a work permit, or from a non-lucrative visa to a work permit, provided you meet all the requirements for the new status.
What if my renewal application is denied?
If your application is denied, you will be officially notified of the reasons. You typically have the right to appeal the decision within a specific timeframe. This is a situation where professional legal help is highly recommended.
