For British citizens who were living in Spain before 31st December 2020, the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement protected your residency rights. However, to formalise that status, you were required to exchange your old green Residencia certificate (or register as a resident for the first time) for the new biometric TIE card. Many people, for various reasons, missed the official deadlines.

If you find yourself in this situation, it can be a source of significant stress. Your right to live, work, and access healthcare in Spain is in a precarious position. While the process is more complicated now, it is often still possible to secure your residency retroactively, but it requires specialist knowledge.

The Challenge: Proving You Were a Resident

If you did not get your TIE card in time, the burden of proof is now on you to demonstrate to the Spanish immigration authorities (Extranjería) that you were genuinely and continuously living in Spain before the Brexit cut-off date. This is no longer a simple registration; it is a complex legal application.

You can no longer just present a rental contract. You need to build a strong case with a portfolio of official evidence, which could include:

  • Old Padrón certificates (Empadronamiento) showing continuous registration.
  • Spanish tax declarations (Declaración de la Renta) from previous years.
  • Employment contracts or records of social security contributions.
  • Bank statements showing regular, day-to-day life and transactions in Spain.
  • Utility bills spanning several years.

This is Not a Standard Application

It is crucial to understand that this is a non-standard application that requires careful handling. The officials at the immigration office will scrutinise your case in detail. The paperwork must be flawless, and your arguments must be presented clearly and legally. This is not a process you should attempt alone or with inexperienced help.

How We Provide Expert, Tailored Assistance

We specialise in helping clients in this exact situation. We understand the specific evidence the Extranjería is looking for and how to present your case for the best chance of success.

  1. Case Assessment: We will have an honest consultation with you to review your situation and the evidence you have.
  2. Document Collation: We will help you gather and organise a strong portfolio of documents to prove your pre-Brexit residency.
  3. Application Management: We will handle the complex application forms and submit your case through the correct channels.
  4. Professional Representation: We will accompany you to all necessary appointments, providing clear, accurate interpretation to ensure your case is heard correctly.

Don't let a missed deadline jeopardise your life in Tenerife. Contact us for a confidential consultation to discuss your specific case.