Since Brexit, many UK nationals living in Spain have found themselves navigating new residency rules and paperwork—chief among them being the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero), Spain’s residency card for third-country nationals.
At Spanish Solutions, we’ve helped hundreds of expats with TIE applications and green certificate card (Certificado de Residencia) exchanges. If your TIE is nearing expiration or you need to exchange your green certificate for a TIE card, this guide is for you.
What Is the TIE and Why Is It Important?
The TIE is the official residency card for non-EU nationals living in Spain. It proves your legal status in Spain, including your rights to work, travel, and access healthcare. For British nationals who secured residency before the end of the Brexit transition period, the TIE replaced the green residency certificate.
When Should You Renew Your TIE?
You should begin the renewal process about 60 days before the card’s expiry date or 90 days after. !!! IMPORTANT NOTE !!! Currently in the Valencian Community, the foreign office is not accepting renewals until the card has expired. Therefore, renewals currently can only be done in the 90 day period after expiry. If you currently have a green certificate, this can be exchanged now.
Don’t leave it too late, an expired TIE can cause issues with travel, banking, healthcare, and even employment.
What Documents Do You Need to Renew Your TIE/ Exchange your green certificate?
- Valid passport
- Current TIE card or green certificate
- It’s been a bit mixed, some agents insist or EX-17, others insist EX-23, we advise to take both!
- Padron certificate (issued within the last 3 months)
- Recent passport-sized photo (32×26 mm)
- Payment of the Tasa 790 012 tax
Spanish Solutions can take the stress out of it for you
At Spanish Solutions, we take the hassle out of Spanish bureaucracy. Whether you’re renewing your TIE/ exchanging green certificate, applying for permanent residency, our team speaks your language, literally and figuratively. Due to the volume of requests and recent changes, we are prioritising applications by expiry date.
For Renewals & exchanges we:
- Handle the paperwork
- Pay your taxes
- Book your 1st appointment which is for the renewal/ exchange & book your 2nd appointment which is for the collection of your new TIE card
- We will meet you at the Foreign Office in Alicante to attend your renewal/ exchange appointment with you, acting as your translator and guide
- Offer peace of mind through every step
Final Tips
Check your expiry date now—don’t get caught out.
Keep your Padron up to date—it’s essential for most administrative tasks.
Need Help with renewing/ exchanging?
Contact Spanish Solutions Today and we can assist you!
10 Comments
Andrew smith
I thought you needed the form ex23 for renewal of wa tie