As summer approaches and international travel increases, it’s common for many foreigners residing in Spain to find that their residence permit has either expired or is currently under renewal just before leaving the country. In these cases, the return authorization becomes a key document to re-enter Spain legally after the holidays.
Instruction 3/2025 from the General Commissariat for Immigration and Borders clarifies the procedure that will apply between June 15 and September 30, 2025, a period during which a rise in applications is expected.
You can access the full text of Instruction 3/2025 issued by the Spanish National Police here (in Spanish):
⏺️ What is a return authorization?
It’s a document that allows you to re-enter Spain when your residence or stay permit has expired, provided you have already submitted the renewal or extension application. It is regulated by Articles 5 and 7.3 of the Regulation of Organic Law 4/2000, approved by Royal Decree 1155/2024.
💡 At ARC Legal, we’ve prepared a complete guide to the return authorization: Access the guide
⏺️ Who can apply for a return authorization?
In general, the following individuals may obtain a return authorization:
- Those who have applied to renew their residence or stay permit, and the application is in progress.
- Those who hold a valid Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) and have requested a duplicate due to theft, loss, damage, or malfunction.
- Those who have submitted an initial application for a residence or stay permit which has already been approved, even if they have not yet received their TIE.
This document is not issued automatically; it must be formally requested and, if eligible, will be issued by the competent office.
⏺️ Instruction 3/2025: Exception for land or sea travel
As an exception, between June 15 and September 30, 2025, foreign nationals arriving at land or sea border checkpoints will be allowed to enter if they present:
- A valid passport or travel document.
- An expired residence permit.
- Proof that they have submitted a renewal application.
⏺️ Important: This exception does not apply to air travel
If you are traveling by air, you must have the return authorization issued before departure. Airlines may deny boarding to individuals who cannot present either a valid residence card or a duly issued return authorization.
⏺️ Territorial limitation – Valid only for Spanish border crossings
A crucial point often overlooked: the return authorization is only valid to enter through Spanish border posts. It is not valid for entry through other Schengen countries. For example, if you are returning via a connecting flight in France, you may face entry refusal.
⏺️ What if I’m a student? Does this apply to me?
Yes, this instruction also applies to:
- Students entering Spain for the first time who already have a visa issued.
- Students who have applied to renew their student card (TIE).
⏺️ In summary
If you’re planning to travel this summer and your residence or stay card is expired or under renewal, make sure to:
- Apply for your return authorization in advance.
- Check if you are returning via air (you’ll need it) or land/sea (you may be exempt if requirements are met).
- Return directly to Spain without layovers in other Schengen countries.
At ARC Legal, we help you prepare your return authorization and answer any questions related to your travel plans outside Spain this summer. If you’re planning a trip and need legal advice, don’t hesitate to contact us in advance.
Related articles
- Return Authorization Guide 2025
- Spain publishes new order on immigration fees
- Hassle-free document legalization and apostille services in Spain with ARC Legal
Prefer to read this article in Spanish 🇪🇸? You can find it here: Autorizaciones de regreso para verano 2025: Instrucciones actualizadas de la Policía
The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration regulations are subject to ongoing administrative and interpretative changes. At ARC Legal, we strive to ensure that all information is up to date and verified with official sources, but we always recommend seeking professional advice before starting any procedure or making legal decisions. If you need personalized assistance, feel free to contact our office.