UPDATE: POLICE IN MALAGA SAY TIE CARD HOLDERS SHOULD JOIN EU NATIONALS PASSPORT QUEUES
Spain’s Policia Nacional did not mince its words when asked to respond to the recent reports of chaos at airports, including Malaga and Alicante.
The force, which is responsible for passport control, said some delays are to be expected during the rollout of the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES).
Under they new system, anyone from a non-Schengen or ‘third country’ – including the UK – must use biometric scanners, which keep track of the number of days they have spent in the EU (ensuring they don’t exceed their 90 in 180 day limit).
As the system has just begun, Brits are using the machines for the first time, and are having to register their fingerprints and face scans, leading to delays when they are up and running at peak times.
However, many passengers claim that a lack of staff during the busiest hours is adding to the episodes of chaos.
Meanwhile, British residents of Spain remain unsure of whether they can join the EU nationals’ passport queue if they have their TIE cards.
The force told the Spanish Eye: ‘The EES system is being implemented gradually, and once fully operational, travelers will spend less time at the border thanks to faster checks and the ability to provide information in advance.
‘This digital system, which went into effect on October 12, 2025, is being rolled out gradually at all external borders, including ports and airports, of the aforementioned countries.
‘Data collection from travelers will be phased in gradually and is expected to be fully implemented no later than April 10, 2026.’
It added: ‘Until the EES is fully implemented, some queues are expected at certain ports and airports with high passenger volume.
‘Non-EU citizens and those covered by agreements will have to pass through these queues. British citizens are not exempt, so we advise them to arrive at the airport well in advance, pay close attention to and cooperate with the system’s instructions, and have all necessary documentation ready and in order.
‘British citizens holding a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) are also not exempt, as this card does not grant them EU citizenship.’
The ruling on TIE cards contradicts claims made by some British passengers that they were allowed to join the EU national passport queue when landing at Alicante.
The Spanish Eye contacted the British Embassy for clarity on the issue.
A spokesperson said: ‘In most cases, UK nationals should use the “all passports” lanes or “visa not required/residents” lanes, where these exist.
‘However, the process for passport lanes can differ depending on the border crossing. UK nationals should follow instructions given by airport and border staff.’
They added: ‘We are not aware of a blanket policy regarding lanes for TIE holders.’
Regarding queues, they said: ‘Passengers should confirm check-in opening times with their airline before they travel and should allow extra time on both arrival into and departure out of Spain at peak times.’
