TIE HoyWhat is an invitation letter for Spain?
Police-issued proof of private lodging for a short tourist or private visit — not a visa, entry guarantee, or residence permit.
What does a police invitation letter prove?
It proves private lodging for a short tourist or private visit.
It does not grant a visa, guarantee entry, or authorize residence or work.
Border officers and consulates may still require other documents.
Who needs this process?
Hosts: Spanish, EU/community beneficiaries, or foreigners legally resident in Spain — a NIE alone is not lawful residence.
Guests: foreigners visiting for private lodging, not hotel stays or long-term family residence.
Routes that are not this letter
- Hotel or paid tourist lodging: follow official entry conditions, not a police carta de invitación.
- Family or work residence: use published residence guides such as family in Spain, not a short-stay invitation.
What to do
Confirm private short visit and your role before preparing documents.
Steps
- Decide: private home stay vs hotel vs long-term residence — each has a different route.
- If you host: check you qualify and can prove housing availability.
- If you already hold the letter: check visa and entry needs against the guest’s nationality and existing travel/residence documents.
- Open the requirements guide to assemble the police application.
Basis
PRE Primero: letter proves lodging only; hosts must be Spanish, EU/community, or legally resident; police issue at residence comisaría.
More questions
Can one letter cover several guests?
PRE Segundo allows multiple invitees when management warrants it and housing fits all; list each person on the application.