Autorización de regreso
Get authorization to leave and return while documents are pending
Get EX-13 when you qualify to leave Spain and return through a Spanish border while a renewal/extension or TIE-duplicate situation is pending.
- Who it is for
- Non-EU citizens
- Legal deadline
- before travel
- How long it takes
- maximum validity 90 days under the published conditions
- Cost
- current government fee
- Where
- In person · Policía Nacional / Oficina de Extranjería
Steps
- Confirm that the case fits one of the published EX-13 situations: qualifying renewal/extension, TIE duplicate after loss/theft/destruction/unusability, or a stated exceptional case.sede.policia.gob.es
- Complete EX-13, pay Modelo 790 código 012 and gather proof that the underlying renewal/extension/duplicate process is in the qualifying posture.sede.policia.gob.es
- Attend the competent Police/Extranjería office and plan return through an authorized Spanish border crossing.sede.policia.gob.es
That is the whole procedure
If you would rather go through yours with someone, describe it to NEXO first. You will find out what applies to you, and whether you need a person.
What to bring
- EX-13, passport/identity documents and 790-012 payment evidence.sede.policia.gob.es
- Evidence of the qualifying renewal/extension or TIE duplicate situation.sede.policia.gob.es
What the official sources say
The autorización de regreso is not a residence authorization; it is a travel/return document for specific qualifying situations.sede.policia.gob.es
Policía states a maximum validity of 90 days under the published conditions.sede.policia.gob.es
The document is for entry through authorized Spanish border crossings; do not present it as a general substitute residence document for travel through other Schengen states.sede.policia.gob.es
What we see in practice
NEXO's own observations. They are not official information and carry no source.
- Treat itinerary as part of the eligibility conversation: someone planning to re-enter Schengen through another country needs a stronger warning than someone flying directly back to Spain.
Questions people ask
Can I use it to enter via France or Italy?
Do not promise that. The Policía guidance specifies return through authorized Spanish border crossings.sede.policia.gob.es
How long is it valid?
Up to 90 days under the current conditions.sede.policia.gob.es
Does every pending application qualify?
No. The procedure lists specific qualifying situations.sede.policia.gob.es
What gets it refused or delayed
- The underlying renewal/extension/TIE-duplicate situation does not meet the published EX-13 conditions or cannot be evidenced.sede.policia.gob.es
Does any of this sound like you?
- The underlying immigration status is unclear, the filing was late, or travel requires entry through another Schengen country.
Cases like these need an immigration lawyer. Describe yours to NEXO first, so you know what to ask and what to bring.