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What Do I Do If…?

Something went wrong? Get calm, step-by-step guidance to navigate Spanish bureaucracy under pressure.

Step-by-step pathsLegal referencesFree

What this tool does

Lifetti's free 'What Do I Do If…' tool gives step-by-step emergency guides for Spanish bureaucracy problems, lost NIE, expired TIE, deposit disputes, missed tax deadlines, working without a permit and more, with your options and the relevant legal references.

  • Step-by-step action paths for common expat emergencies
  • Legal references and your available options
  • Covers immigration, housing, tax and work problems
  • Free, no sign-up

Best for: expats facing an urgent Spanish bureaucracy or legal problem

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get help with a Spanish bureaucracy emergency?

Lifetti offers free "What Do I Do If…" emergency guides with step-by-step actions for common expat problems, lost NIE, expired TIE, deposit disputes, missed tax deadlines, working without a permit and more, including your options and the relevant legal references.

What do I do if I lose my NIE certificate in Spain?

The NIE number itself never changes, so you don’t reapply, you request a duplicate certificate. Book a cita previa at a National Police station or Extranjería office with your passport and Modelo 790 código 012, and ask for a certificate showing your existing NIE. Lifetti’s free emergency guides walk you through it.

What do I do if my NIE or TIE has expired?

Apply for renewal as soon as possible, ideally within 60 days before expiry or up to 90 days after. Overstaying an expired TIE can jeopardize your residency, so file the renewal (and pay the fee) without delay.

What do I do if my landlord keeps my deposit in Spain?

Your landlord must return the deposit within 1 month of you returning the keys, after which it accrues legal interest. Send a formal written demand (burofax) citing LAU Article 36, and escalate to consumer arbitration or a small-claims court if unpaid.

What do I do if I miss a Spanish tax deadline?

File as soon as possible. Self-correcting before Hacienda contacts you caps the surcharge at 1% plus 1% per month late (max 15%). If Hacienda demands it first, penalties rise to 50–150% of the tax owed.