Application for a Permiso de Residencia Permanente.

@Imelda Cottle

I don't think NIEs become invalid. But, as a guess, perhaps you're referring to your "Green NIE",  the Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión which you received when you first registered in Spain (before Brexit)? If so, you should note that, actually, it IS still valid and is an important document that evidences your rights under the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement. However, it can't be used for entering/exit the country (you need a biometric residence permit instead) and you'll be limited to the 3 months in 6 months Schengen rule for tourists.

You need to follow the process for exchanging/upgrading from the Green NIE for British/Brexit to obtain your Article 50 TIE. The Cita Previa system is the usual way to get appointments, and I imagine you just keep trying until you get one. Or, perhaps, you can go to the relevant police station and ask them.

https://www.niebarcelona.com/british-ti … ow-so-far/

https://www.arc-legal.es/en/british-cit … june-2025/

To secure your permanent residency (TIE) after your green NIE was invalidated, you must book an appointment for fingerprinting at a National Police Station (Comisaría de Policía Nacional) through the official Sede Electrónica. With the high demand, appointments often appear early in the morning (around 08:00) or through dedicated relocation gestors.

@Imelda Cottle

Dear Imelda,

Sorry to hear this, residence appointments in Spain can be very difficult to arrange.

I am not an immigration lawyer myself, but I know a relocation expert who helps with these procedures. I believe he is from the UK and has an office in Andalusia.

I can share his LinkedIn with you if helpful.