Spanish return permit (regreso) explained

What is a return permit?

According to article 7 of the Spanish Aliens Act, you cannot enter Spanish territory after the expiration of your visa or residence permit. 

The return permit (autorización de regreso in Spanish) is an authorization that allows the departure and subsequent return to Spanish national territory of those foreigners whose residence permit or visa have expired but being renewed or extended.

Assumptions 

1. Hold a permit of residence or stay and have initiated the procedures for renewal or extension of the authorization that enables you to stay in Spain within the legal period.
2. Hold a valid foreigner’s identity card and have submitted a request for a duplicate card due to theft, loss, destruction or disablement.
3. Prove that the trip responds to a situation of necessity and that there are exceptional reasons, also that the initial authorization for residence or stay has been favorably resolved and that the issuance of the foreigner’s identity card is in process.

Required documents

• Application form in official model (EX-13) in duplicate, filled and signed by the foreigner.
• Fees 790-052 and 790-012, signed and paid.
• Copy of the complete passport or registration card and valid travel document.
• Copy of the application for renewal or extension of the authorization or of the foreigner’s identity card, or proof of its presentation.
• In case c) (having been granted initial authorization of residence or stay and having the foreigner’s identity card in process): documentation accrediting that the trip responds to a situation of need and exceptional circumstances.

Note: The “Re-entry” Authorization will be valid for no more than 90 days
a) If the residence or stay authorization is not under renewal period, from the date of granting.
a) If the residence or stay authorization is under renewal period:
– From the date of expiration of the authorization, if requested before it expires.
– From the date of granting, if requested after the expiration of the authorization.