Question
I’ve been living in Spain for almost 5 years and soon will have to renew my NIE Spanish residency card. Can anyone tell me what the process involves and what are the requirements for renewal? What are the reasons they might reject renewal?
Answers
These are the answers of Spainguru’s Facebook group members:
(Lawyer’s answer) “If you have residency as a British citizen under the withdrawal agreement, unlike other non-EU citizens you do NOT have to apply to the immigration office with proof of funds, work, etc. Your permanent long-term residency is automatically granted under the WA. You just directly for a Toma de Huellas/fingerprint appointment to make a TIE card. You need:
- One passport photo
- Passport
- Current TIE/or green residency certificate
- Ex 21 Form
- Tasas 790-012 for 12€
- Bank receipt of tasas paid
- Padron
You do NOT have to show you have been in Spain for most of the 5 years. If you have an active fine or tax debt due that has been tagged to your NIE number get it sorted and paid before you go.
If you have residency with a NL residency or Family member of EU citizen then you must submit an application digitally to the immigration office, like you did the first time.
With full passport, proof of funds, insurance/SS, padron, etc. In this case it can make a difference how long you have been outside of Spain. Once approved you apply for the TIE Card.”
“We need to know the basis on which the card was issued. For example, a card issued to a Withdrawal Afgreement it will say ‘articulo 50’ or ‘articulo 18.4’ somewhere.”
“Just need to prove you have lived here 50 out of the past 60 months.”
“If you’re a British holding a WA TIE. In that case, you will need form EX-21. If you only have a scrap of green paper and no TIE, then you’ll need to do EX-23 which you should do as soon as possible before it gets really really hard. You can google the form numbers for more information.
As for reasons it might be denied, this is Spain we’re talking about. Potential reasons include, guy behind the desk has just been dumped, he’s a Real Madrid fan still has the hump over the Spurs transfer fee for Bale, he’s just knocked his cup of coffee over, etc etc.
The good news is that after 5 years you can tell them to stick their WA TIE up their arse because your right to live and work in Spain does not depend on you having one.”
Conclusion
Renewing Spanish residency as a British expat under the Withdrawal Agreement appears to be straightforward, requiring specific documentation and an appointment for biometrics. However, complexities arise if residency is based on other grounds.
Understanding the specific type of residency and any associated obligations is crucial to navigate the renewal process effectively. Misunderstandings about residency type or obligations, such as tax debts or prolonged absences from Spain, can complicate the renewal.
