Good to know · Residency
Identity document for people granted international protection
People granted refugee status or subsidiary protection (and recognized stateless people) receive an identity document from the Policía Nacional. The Policía Nacional sede lists its validity as 5 years. The law grants beneficiaries permanent residence and work authorization.
- Why it matters
- This document is your ID for everyday settling steps (padrón, bank, health card, work). Apply for it once you have the resolution granting protection.
- When
- You have received the resolution granting refugee status or subsidiary protection.
- How long it takes
- Validity 5 years (Policía Nacional sede).
- Official page
- Documento de identidad de refugiado, protección subsidiaria y apátrida
- Last checked
- 20 Oct 2026
In the guide: the 3 steps, what to bring (4 items), and tips and what to watch for, with every official source.