It’s hard to believe, but it’s already been five years since Brexit.
For many British citizens living in Spain with a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) issued under the Withdrawal Agreement, the time has now come for their first renewal — to become a permanent resident.
If this is your case, it’s important to know what the TIE is, when to renew it, what documents you’ll need, and how Gestoría Estepona can make the process smooth and stress-free for you.
What is the TIE under the Withdrawal Agreement?
The TIE (Foreigner’s Identity Card) is your official proof of legal residence in Spain.
Following Brexit, British citizens who were already living in Spain before 1 January 2021 were able to apply for a special TIE under the Withdrawal Agreement, which protects their acquired rights as if they still were part of the EU — even if they still hold a UK passport.
This initial TIE is usually a temporary one valid for 5 years. When it expires, you must renew it in order to obtain permanent residence, which comes with a 10-year card.
Please note: after 10 years of legal residency, you can apply to become a Spanish citizen. Don’t hesitate to contact us should you wish for further information and advice!
When should you renew your TIE under the WA?
- First renewal: when your current 5-year TIE expires.
- You must wait until your card has expired before applying.
- You have 90 days after expiry to submit your renewal.
- If you have lived legally in Spain for 5 continuous years, your renewal will upgrade you to permanent resident statuswith a card of 1O year validity.
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Documents required for TIE renewal (Withdrawal Agreement)
You will need:
- Valid passport.
- Current TIE card.
- Updated certificate of registration (Padrón) – this certificate usually only has a validity of three months from the date of issue.
- Recent TIE photo on a white background (smaller than a standard passport photo).
- Proof of payment of the relevant fee.
- Completed application form.
TIE under WA renewals in Estepona, Marbella, Manilva & Benahavís
At Gestoría Estepona, we regularly work with British clients across the western Costa del Sol, including Marbella, Manilva, Benahavís and nearby areas.
We provide a complete service:
- Checking your eligibility and requirements.
- Preparing all the necessary paperwork.
- Booking your appointment and accompanying you to the police station.
- Arranging sworn translations if needed.
Tips for a smooth renewal
- Although appointments are scarce and you have to wait for the expiry date in order to process the renewal, start looking ASAP for available appointments.
- You have 90 days after expiry to submit your renewal.
- Keep your Padrón registration up to date.
- PREPARATION IS KEY – DON’T LEAVE EVERYTHING UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE!
Let Gestoría Estepona handle your TIE renewal
If you need to renew your TIE under the Withdrawal Agreement and want to secure your permanent residency in Spain without the stress, we’re here to help.
Gestoría Estepona – covering areas most areas in Málaga, such as Estepona, Marbella, Manilva & Benahavís
Phone: +34 627 13 91 51
Email: info@gestoriaestepona.com
Contact our team and we’ll guide you through every step – from start to finish.
