British expats in Spain: How to exchange your green residency certificate for a TIE card

Since Brexit, British expats in Spain are no longer EU citizens, and must prove they have the right to reside in the country.

Previously, this was done via a green paper certificate, but the Spanish government now issues TIE cards instead.

While the paper certificate is still valid, it will not be accepted at the Spanish border once the EU’s new EES system comes into force.

Brits are therefore being urged to exchange their green residency certificate for a TIE. Below is complete guide on how to do so.

1. Check your eligibility

You can apply if:

• You are a British national who resided in Spain before 31 December 2020.
• You hold a green residence certificate (either the credit-card size or A4 version).
• You are already registered in Spain and have your NIE number.

2. Book an Appointment (Cita Previa)

Visit the official appointment booking site: 👉 https://sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es/icpplustie

• Choose your province, e.g Malaga or Alicante.
• Select ‘Policía – Toma de huella (expedición de tarjeta)‘ for Withdrawal Agreement applicants.
• Follow the steps to book your appointment.
• Appointments can be hard to get, check often, especially early mornings or late evenings.

3. Prepare Your Documents

Bring originals and copies of the following:

For holders of the green certificado de registro (EU residence certificate):

• Your passport (valid and not expired).
• Your green EU certificate (A4 or small card).
• Completed EX-23 form: Download here (official)
• Modelo 790 Codigo 012 tax form, paid (see next step).
• Recent passport-sized photo (Spanish size: 32x26mm, white background).
• Appointment confirmation (print/email proof).

4. Pay the Fee (Modelo 790 Codigo 012)

This is a small admin fee of around €12.

• Download and complete the Modelo 790 012 form online: https://sede.policia.gob.es/Tasa790_012/
• Under ‘TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero)‘, select:
  • ‘Certificado de Residencia Temporal…‘ – specifically under Brexit/Withdrawal Agreement option.
• Submit and print the form, then pay it at any bank or ATM.

5. Go to Your Appointment

At the Oficina de Extranjería or police station, bring all required documents. You’ll:

• Provide fingerprints.
• Submit documents.
• Be given a resguardo (receipt) stating when to collect your TIE (usually in 30 to 45 days).

6. Collect Your TIE

• Return to the same police station where you applied.
• Bring:
  • Passport
  • Resguardo (receipt)

They’ll verify your identity and hand over your new TIE card.