Since Brexit, British students in Spain are registered as non-EU nationals and must obtain a TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) rather than the EU residency certificate (Certificado de Registro) that applied before 2021. The process is the same as for other non-EU students — register at the Oficina de Extranjería within 30 days of arrival using the EX-17 form. Book your appointment the moment you arrive — large cities have 4–8 week waits.
TIE Application Process for British Students
- Book online: sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es — select "Toma de Huella — Expedición/Renovación de Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero." Book within first days of arrival.
- Download and complete EX-17: Available from the Spanish Ministry of Interior website.
- Pay Tasa 790 (Código 012): ~€16 at any Spanish bank. Keep receipt.
- Documents: Passport (original + copy), student visa (original + copy), university enrollment certificate (certificado de matrícula — get on arrival), 1 passport photo, EX-17 form, Tasa 790 receipt.
- Attend appointment: Fingerprints and photo taken; receive appointment receipt as interim document.
- Collect TIE: 30–60 days; collect with passport and receipt.
- Annual renewal: Renew 60 days before expiry with updated enrollment certificate.
Brexit Impact on British Students' Registration
| Pre-Brexit (before Jan 2021) | British students registered as EU nationals — Certificado de Registro (green A4 certificate), free, no TIE required |
|---|---|
| Post-Brexit (from Jan 2021) | British students treated as non-EU nationals — must obtain TIE card same as Indian, Nigerian, or US students |
| TIE fee | ~€16 (Tasa 790, Código 012) |
| Renewal | Annual — with proof of continued enrollment |
Frequently Asked Questions
If you were registered before Brexit and have the TIE for UK nationals (issued since 2020 under the Withdrawal Agreement), your status may be different. UK nationals who established residence before 31 December 2020 under the Withdrawal Agreement have specific protected rights in Spain. If you are starting a new program after 2021 as a new student, you need the full non-EU TIE student process described here.
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