FCDO Warning For Brits On Visas And Permits Post-Brexit

Spain has released a full list of documentation that British nationals must have in order to prove their residency allowing them to stay in the country.

SPAIN has released a full list of documentation that British nationals must have in order to prove their residency allowing them to stay in the country. Before Brexit came into force in January 2021, British nationals were able to live and move freely in the European Union.

Since Brexit came into force many countries are now issuing their own rules on residency for Brits, according to the Express. In the case of Spain, Brits who were legally residing in the country before January 1, 2021 are required to apply for residency status in line with the withdrawal agreement.

Those who have come to Spain after January 2021 are also required to apply for a visa or residency status, however, it is now much more difficult and often proof of funds or income is required.

“The Spanish Government has published a list of documentation that UK nationals who were legally residing in Spain before January 1, 2021, and as such are beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement, can use to prove their residence status when entering Spain while entry restrictions remain in place,” explains the FCDO.

“You will be required to present any one of the following documents to prove your residence status.

“A residence card issued under Article 18.4 of the Withdrawal Agreement (the TIE) – ‘la tarjeta de identidad de extranjero (TIE)’.

“A temporary or permanent EU residence certificate (green certificate) – ‘el certificado de registro de ciudadano de la Unión’ (tarjeta verde).

“A residence card as a family member of an EU citizen – ‘la tarjeta de familiar de ciudadano de la Unión’.

“The receipt of application to exchange an EU residence certificate (green certificate) or residence card as a family member of an EU citizen for the new TIE (residence card issued under Article 18.4 of the Withdrawal Agreement) – ‘el resguardo de expedición de la tarjeta de identidad de extranjero (TIE) o de la tarjeta de familiar de ciudadano de la Unión’.”

“Confirmation of the positive outcome of your residence application from the Immigration Office – ‘la resolución favorable de reconocimiento como beneficiario del Acuerdo de Retirada emitida por la Oficina de Extranjería competente.”

The full list of requirements has also been “communicated to airlines and other operators” to make sure that anyone travelling to Spain has the correct documentation before coming to Spain.

“Spanish border authorities will only grant entry if they are satisfied that you meet the entry requirements and reserve the right to deny passage,” the FCDO warned.

Many expats have spoken about the difficulties of remaining in Spain now that Brexit and the new residency rules have come into force.

“This requirement will rule out the option of retiring to Spain for many.

“Those who are retiring on a basic UK State pension, £9,339 in 2021, will not qualify.”