Question
Can you smile on your TIE card photo?
Answers
These are the answers of Spainguru’s Facebook group members:
“I’m not an expert, but several Google search results say you must have a neutral expression.”
“No, just like a driver’s license or passport photo. They want a neutral face.”
“You better bring several photos, and they will choose one. They don’t take your picture; you have to bring the photos with you.”
(Lawyer’s answer): “Yes, you can.”
“The official specification doesn’t mention you can’t smile.”
“When having my photo taken at a Spanish photography shop for my TIE, I was told, ‘You’re not having your British passport photo taken. You can smile!’ So, I did slightly, and it was accepted for both my TIE and my driver’s license.”
“I gave a slight smile. But why is it important to you?”
“We were told to smile.”
“I always smile.”
Conclusion
There’s no definitive rule about smiling in your TIE card photo, as experiences vary depending on the source or location.
Some members report being instructed to maintain a neutral expression, akin to a passport or driver’s license photo.
Others, however, were encouraged to smile slightly by local photography shops or even opted to smile, and their photos were accepted without issue.
One thing is clear: you’ll need to bring your photos with you to the appointment, as they don’t take the picture there.
To avoid complications, it’s wise to prepare multiple photos—some with a neutral expression and others with a slight smile—so you’re ready for any specific requirement.
