TIE application for UK citizens
Stay compliant: Switch your Green NIE to TIE now!
- Your Green NIE may no longer be recognized by border officials, especially with the EU's new Entry/Exit System. Let us help you switch to the TIE and stay compliant!
- Your own immigration specialist with unlimited advice.
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We make sure that you meet all the requirements and even submit the mandatory documentation for you.
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We will guide you through the legal procedures you need to carry out, solving all your doubts.
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Personalized attention from an experienced specialist, with whom you can communicate at all times.
Why the Switch to the TIE is Urgent?
The Green NIE, formally known as “Certificate of Registration of an EU Citizen”) was issued to British nationals when the UK was still part of the EU.
With Brexit now fully in effect, this document is still recognized in Spain due to the Withdrawal Agreement but the British Embassy urges residents to switch to the TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) promptly to avoid border disruptions and ensure compliance with the evolving EU framework.
EU Entry / Exit System (EES)
Launching in November 2024, this system will replace manual passport stamping with biometric data collection for non-EU nationals entering or exiting the Schengen Area. This system aims to prevent overstaying and enhance border security.
As EES progresses toward a fully digital border management system, the TIE offers UK nationals a reliable solution, ensuring uninterrupted residency and travel.
What happens if I don't get the TIE?
Although switching from the Green NIE to the TIE is not mandatory for UK nationals in Spain, it is strongly recommended to avoid complications.
- Problems with identity verification: The Green NIE lack biometric data, which makes it incompatible with the EES, potentially leading to issues at border crossings, especially in other EU countries.
- Loss of residency benefits: The Green NIE is not recognized under the terms of the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement, meaning UK nationals could miss out on certain residency privileges if they do not switch to the TIE.
- Unclear residence documentation: The TIE provides clear confirmation of your residency status as a non-EU citizen. If you continue to use the Green NIE there may be confusion about your legal status, resulting in potential difficulties when interacting with officials or accessing services across Spain and the EU.
As you can see, the TIE, introduced in July 2020 as part of the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement, offers several benefits over the Green NIE.
Also, recent data from the Spanish Embassy suggests that a growing number of UK nationals in Spain have already made the transition to the TIE, reducing the risks associated with outdated documentation.
But what will happen to the Green NIE?
It’s still valid within Spain but their lack of biometric data and expiration dates makes them increasingly incompatible with evolving EU systems, such as the new EES.
Spain continues to accept it and will for some time, but it is gradually becoming obsolete as the TIE is now the preferred document for residency and identification. While the switch is not mandatory, UK nationals are strongly advised to upgrade to the TIE to avoid potential complications with both travel and local services.
Solve all your doubts about how to get the TIE as an UK national!
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Half Pack
Perfect if you don't need all the paperwork-
Application to get your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE)
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Empadronamiento Certificate
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Full Pack
For those who want all their paperwork ready in one go-
Application to get your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE)
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Empadronamiento Certificate
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Digital Certificate
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Social Security Number
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Individual Health Card (TSI)
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Make the Switch with Ease!
Our team of immigration experts offers personalized guidance to ensure a fast and smooth transition to the TIE. We handle all the paperwork, so you can enjoy your residency in Spain without worrying about bureaucracy.