Under the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), Spanish authorities will no longer recognize British residents’ green certificates. Moving forward in 2025, the government will only accept the biometric TIE card (tarjeta de identidad de extranjero) for border checks.
Green Certificates Out, TIE In
Previously, UK nationals could use either the green paper certificate or the newer TIE card to prove residency. However, with the upcoming launch of the EU’s automated border control system, this will no longer be the case. Green certificates are not machine-readable and lacks biometric data. Therefore, British residents cannot use it with the EES.
The Spanish government and EU authorities have confirmed this change. Consequently, UK nationals who have not upgraded risk serious travel disruption. Moreover, the new rule applies to all Schengen border crossings, not just Spain.
What Is the TIE?
The TIE is a biometric residency card for third-country nationals, including post-Brexit UK citizens. Specifically, it includes a photo, a microchip, and is compatible with automated border systems. Furthermore, it meets EU-wide security standards.
Unlike green certificates, the TIE is scannable at EES kiosks. In particular, these kiosks will be available at airports, ports, and land borders across Europe. Thus, UK nationals without a TIE may face issues entering or leaving the Schengen Area.
Advice for Holders of Green Certificates
Recently, Spanish officials and British consulates issued clear warnings. They strongly urge UK nationals to apply for the TIE before the EES goes live.
“We want British residents in Spain to be able to travel smoothly into this country,” remarked Ambassador to Spain Sir Alex Ellis.
“That’s why it’s really important that anyone with a green certificate gets a TIE. It can take a few months, so start the process now to ensure smooth travel once the EES comes into force later this year.”
Additionally, local authorities across Spain have echoed this message. They stress that having a TIE is the only way to guarantee smooth border crossing.
Risks of Not Having a TIE
UK nationals still using green certificates could face delays, confusion, or denial of entry. Even worse, they may be classified overstaying visitors rather than residents. This results in an appeals process and may entail the British resident to return to the UK in the meantime.
More importantly, this applies to any country they may attempt to enter in the Schengen Zone with the green certificates.
Therefore, converting to the TIE is not optional—it is essential.
Thankfully, the process is straightforward. First, residents should book an appointment through the Spanish online system (Sede Electrónica). Then, they must gather the required documents, which includes a valid passport, residency proof, a completed application form, and a passport photo.
Once issued, the TIE replaces green certificates as the official residency document. It is also essential for many activities in Spain, from signing a lease, opening a bank account, to finding work.
