The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) serves as a photographic identification card issued by Spain for non-EU/EEA citizens, including UK nationals post-Brexit, who have acquired a visa or residency permit. This card functions as the official proof of legal residency status and is a mandatory requirement for residing in Spain, with some short-term exemptions applicable.
To obtain a TIE, individuals must apply at their local Comisaria (police station) and can expect to pick it up approximately 30 to 45 days later. The card contains the holder's personal information, photograph, NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), and residency status, with the expiry date determined by the type of visa or permit held.
The TIE plays a crucial role in various formalities, including accessing public services, job applications, opening a bank account, renting a home, domestic travel, and exchanging a driving license.
After five years, individuals may qualify for permanent residency, denoted by the word "PERMANENTE" on the TIE. The card is then valid for either 5 or 10 years, depending on the individual's circumstances. Notably, permanent residency is typically granted if the person has not been absent from Spain for more than 10 months in the preceding 5 years, with no single absence exceeding 6 months.
The EU will be introducing its new Entry/Exit System (EES) later in 2024 which should mean no more passport stamps. If you are a resident in the EU from a non EU/EEA country, you will need to have a recognised biometric resident ID — in Spain this is the TIE photocard. Otherwise you will be obliged to register in the EES system. So if you want to avoid having to do this, you should swap your old green residency certificate for a shiny new TIE. For more info email us at brexit@yourspanishpaperwork.com
If you would like help in obtaining your TIE please get in touch:
WhatsApp: +34 689 735 224
Email: tie@yourspanishpaperwork.com
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