TL;DR
British residents in Spain must now have a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) to avoid issues under the new European Entry/Exit System (EES). Green Residency Certificates are no longer valid for this purpose. Switching to a TIE ensures smoother travel and official recognition of residency. Need help? Contact us at Solving Spain.
The UK Government has recently updated its website with vital information for British residents living in Spain. If you are a British citizen residing in Spain, this update is crucial for ensuring hassle-free travel across European borders.
New Requirement: TIE for British Residents
Under the new European Entry/Exit System (EES), British residents in Spain must possess a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) to be exempt from additional border checks. The older Green Residency Certificates will no longer be recognised for this purpose.
If you still have the green residency document, it’s essential to switch to a TIE to avoid potential travel disruptions.
Why Should You Switch to a TIE?
✅ Ensures smoother entry and exit from Spain and the Schengen area
✅ Recognised by border officials across the EU
✅ Provides clearer proof of residency status in Spain.
How to Switch from a Green Residency Certificate to a TIE
The process of switching to a TIE involves booking an appointment with Spain’s immigration office and submitting the required documentation. If you’re unsure how to proceed, we’re here to help!
Need Assistance?
At Solving Spain, we specialise in providing legal and administrative assistance for British residents in Spain. If you have questions or need guidance on updating your residency status, feel free to contact us:
📩 Email: lucy@solvingspain.com
📞 Phone: 620 18 87 76
For official government details, visit the UK Government’s updated guidance here: Living in Spain – UK Government
Spread the Word!
If you know fellow British residents in Spain who still hold the old green residency certificate, share this update with them! Staying informed and acting now can prevent unnecessary travel issues in the future.



