A Gentle and Clear Guide to Renewing Your TIE in Spain Under the Withdrawal Agreement – 2026 Edition

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A Gentle and Clear Guide to Renewing Your TIE in Spain Under the Withdrawal Agreement

For many British nationals who built their lives in Spain before the Brexit transition, the TIE issued under the Withdrawal Agreement has been a key element of stability and peace of mind. As the first generation of these cards begins to reach its expiry date, many long-term residents are now preparing for their renewal — a process that confirms their continued rights and grants them a more secure, long-term status in Spain.

If your TIE is approaching its expiry date, this guide will walk you through what it means, when to take action and how the renewal process unfolds. Above all, it aims to provide reassurance: with the right preparation and guidance, renewing your TIE is a straightforward and positive step.

At Marbella EU Residency Services, we support clients in English, Spanish and Portuguese and provide a complete service, from documentation to appointment booking, helping you navigate the renewal with confidence.

🌍 Understanding the Withdrawal Agreement TIE

Following the UK’s departure from the European Union, British residents who were already legally living in Spain before 1 January 2021 were offered a special residence card. This card — known as the TIE issued under the Withdrawal Agreement — protects their previous EU-related rights and ensures their ability to continue living and working in Spain under the same framework as before Brexit.

The first card issued is typically valid for five years. When this card expires, residents must complete their first renewal in order to obtain permanent residency, which takes the form of a 10-year TIE. This long-term card provides even greater security and is the natural next step for those who have built stable lives in Spain.

Many people do not realise that this renewal is an important milestone. It recognises five years of continuous residence, integration and contribution to Spanish society — a moment that often comes with a sense of achievement and belonging.

⏰ When should you renew your TIE?

The timing is specific and differs from other residency procedures. Here are the key points to remember:

• The renewal is carried out after the 5-year card has expired, not before.

• Once the card expires, you have 90 days to complete the renewal.

• If you have lived legally and continuously in Spain for five years, you will receive the 10-year permanent residency card.

• The procedure is completed at the corresponding Policía Nacional office.

This system ensures that your new card reflects your true length of residence. Many British residents describe receiving the 10-year TIE as a moment of stability, marking their long-term commitment to Spain.

📄 Documents you will need for the renewal

The renewal process requires a set of clear and straightforward documents. Although each case may vary slightly, most applicants will need the following:

• Valid UK passport

• Your expiring TIE card

• An updated padrón certificate, issued within the last three months

• A recent TIE-style photograph on a white background

• Payment of the corresponding fee (Modelo 790 code 012)

• The correct application form, completed and printed

These documents must be presented on the day of your appointment. If anything is missing, outdated or incorrectly prepared, the renewal may be delayed — which is why many residents choose professional support to avoid complications.

At Marbella EU Residency Services, we prepare all documents on your behalf and ensure that everything is complete, clear and ready for submission.

🏖 Renewing your TIE on the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol is home to one of the largest British communities in Spain, and we work closely with clients throughout the region, including:

• Marbella

• Estepona

• Manilva

• Benahavís

• Casares and surrounding areas

Our service is designed to offer comfort and clarity:

• A review of your individual case

• A personalised checklist of required documents

• Completion of official forms

• Booking your appointment at the Police Station

• In-person assistance on the day of the renewal

• Support in your preferred language: English, Spanish or Portuguese

Many clients appreciate having someone by their side at the appointment, especially if they feel uncertain about Spanish administrative procedures.

💡 Helpful advice for a smooth renewal

A few small steps can make your renewal significantly easier:

• Begin monitoring appointment availability in advance

• Keep your padrón registration up to date

• Check that your passport is still valid

• Prepare your TIE photo before booking your appointment

• Avoid waiting until the last few days of the 90-day period

Good preparation is the key to a calm, efficient process. With everything in order, the appointment itself is usually quick and uncomplicated.

📞 Renew your TIE with confidence

If your Withdrawal Agreement TIE is about to expire, or if you simply want professional guidance throughout the renewal process, we are here to help.

We prepare your documents, secure your appointment and accompany you to the Police Station so that everything runs smoothly from beginning to end.

✨ Marbella EU Residency Services — clear, reliable and dedicated support for British residents in Spain.

Services: https://marbellaeuresidency.com/services
Contact: https://marbellaeuresidency.com/contact
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