How to Start Renewing your Spanish Passport Online

Published on 28/07/2025

Need to renew your Spanish passport online and not sure where to begin? This practical guide walks you through the process step by step—from checking requirements and preparing documents to paying the fee and receiving your new passport. If you live abroad, avoiding unnecessary trips to the consulate can save you time and stress. Here, you'll find everything you need to complete your passport renewal clearly, securely, and without mistakes.

Photo by Freepik

Eligibility for Online Passport Renewal

The option to renew your Spanish passport online has simplified the process for many citizens living abroad. However, not everyone can access this system. The Online Portal provided by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs is only available to those who meet specific eligibility criteria.

To use the digital platform, your personal data must be up to date, you must have a valid DNI and NIE, and your fingerprints must be on record from a previous biometric passport. Your residency status must also be correctly registered. If you do not meet these conditions, you'll need to complete the process in person at a consulate.

The next sections explain who can apply online and when an in-person visit is necessary.

Who Can Apply Online?

You can renew your Spanish passport online if you meet all the following conditions: you are a Spanish citizen legally residing abroad, your passport is expired or will expire within 12 months, you have a valid DNI and NIE with no recent changes, your fingerprints are already in the system from a previous biometric passport, and you are at least 12 years old.

This system is designed to simplify the process, but it excludes certain cases. Children under 12, applicants who have changed their name or residency status, or those with missing biometric data must complete the procedure in person at the Spanish consulate.

For additional guidance on legal processes for British nationals in Spain, we recommend reading our article on the new rules for living in spain after brexit.

When You Must Visit the Consulate

While the online Spanish passport renewal process is designed for convenience, there are certain cases where an in-person visit to a consulate or embassy is required. This usually applies when biometric data cannot be verified or when personal or residency information has changed.

You must request an appointment at your local consulate if:

You do not have a previous biometric passport (no fingerprints on record).
You have changed your name, surname, or marital status since the last issuance.
Your residency address has changed.
You are under 12 years old.
Your DNI is expired or does not match your current information.
There are errors in your documents or official records.

In these situations, consular staff must verify your identity, update your details, and collect new fingerprints in order to issue your new passport correctly.

Step-by-Step Online Renewal Process

The process to renew your Spanish passport online is carried out through the Online Portal managed by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Although it's designed to be user-friendly, it's important to complete each step carefully to avoid delays or errors. Here's how to do it right.

1. Prepare Your Documents

Before starting the application, gather everything you need: your previous passport, even if expired; a valid DNI and NIE; a recent passport photo that meets official guidelines; and proof of your current address abroad. You'll also need internet access and an active email address. Make sure your photo has a white background, your face is clearly visible, and there are no accessories that obscure your features.

2. Submit Your Application

Once everything is ready, go to the official Ministry website and access the Online Passport Portal. You'll need to log in or create an account, complete the form, upload all required documents, and verify that your personal and contact information is correct. If the system finds any inconsistencies, it may temporarily reject your submission or direct you to complete the process at the consulate.

3. Pay the Fee

After submitting the form, you must pay the consular fee, usually by credit card or bank transfer depending on the platform's options. Be sure to keep your payment receipt in case it's needed to resolve any issues later on.

4. Track & Receive Your New Passport

Once your payment is confirmed, you'll get a confirmation email. You can then track your application status through the portal. Once approved, your new passport will either be sent to the address you provided or made available for pickup at your selected Spanish consulate. Delivery times vary by country but usually range from 2 to 6 weeks.

Tips for a Smooth Application

While renewing your Spanish passport online may seem simple, following a few key recommendations can help prevent delays or rejection. Many common issues arise from incorrect photos, incompatible browsers, or failing to follow the Ministry portal's specific requirements.

Passport Photo Requirements

One of the most frequent mistakes is uploading a photo that doesn't meet official guidelines. The image must have a plain white background, show your face clearly from the front with a neutral expression, and be taken recently. Dark glasses, headwear, or anything covering your face will result in rejection. It might seem like a small detail, but an incorrect photo can block the entire application and force you to start over.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Users often run into problems when using outdated browsers or submitting forms from mobile devices. The best approach is to complete your application from a desktop computer using an updated browser like Google Chrome or Firefox. Make sure your documents are properly scanned and the filenames don't include unusual symbols or spaces. If you don't receive a confirmation email, check your spam folder and verify that your email address was entered correctly. If technical issues persist, you can contact the consulate or check the FAQ section of the official site for help.

Urgent Passport Renewals

In exceptional cases where time is critical—such as upcoming travel, medical emergencies, or urgent immigration procedures—you can request an expedited renewal of your Spanish passport. To do this, you must contact the relevant consulate or embassy and provide documentation supporting your situation.

The law firm Enrique Sánchez, experts in immigration law and consular procedures, can help you manage these requests quickly and efficiently. Their professional advice is especially valuable when you're facing delays in the online portal, problems with your documents, or need urgent help securing a consulate appointment.

Keep in mind that emergency passports are often issued with limited validity, and you'll still need to complete the regular renewal process afterward. Planning ahead is always the best approach.

To avoid unnecessary stress, rely on expert support and begin your passport renewal early. The process doesn't have to be difficult.

About the Author: Enrique Sánchez has been practicing Spanish law since 1998, specializing in legal services for UK clients including visa applications, private client matters, and real estate transactions. As former Honorary Consul of Spain for Liverpool (2011-2023) and with a Master's in Town Planning, he brings unique expertise to cross-border legal matters. His experience ranges from advising Premier League football clubs on Spanish transactions to assisting British retirees with residency applications. The law firm provides comprehensive support for all Spanish legal needs.