Britain's European Union relations Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds visited Spain this week, where he raised important issues for the British expat community. During his two-day visit, the EU Relations Minister met with his counterparts in the Spanish Government and reaffirmed his commitment to work with Spain on issues of mutual interest. The discussions focused on cutting red tape and supporting British traders and customers both in Spain and in the UK, as well as improving the process for UK expats travelling to and from Spain.
Among the priorities he raised was resolving problems British nationals are facing getting or renewing their 'tarjeta de identidad de extranjero' or 'TIE', which proves their resident status in Spain and means they will not have to register for EES, the EU's new registration system for visitors to the Schengen Area.
The Minister met with European Union Sherpa Maider Makua, Industry Minister Jordi Brustenga and Migration Minister Cancela to discuss strengthening the bilateral relationship between the UK and Spain, as well as broader UK-EU cooperation.
A key focus of discussions included the UK and EU’s work to agree a new food and drink trade deal by 2027. This will make it significantly easier for British expats to purchase UK products and bring produce home when visiting family and friends. The Minister visited Madrid’s Mercado de La Paz to highlight opportunities for British food exports to Spain, and sampled some Stilton cheese which he heard is a hit with expats and locals alike.
Since coming to office in 2024, the Government has worked to reset relations between the UK and the EU, agreeing new economic and security deals at the first UK-EU Summit in May 2025. By 2040, these deals are expected to be worth £9 billion to the UK economy and will reduce barriers for British expats in Spain.
The Minister also delivered a keynote speech at the Nueva Economía Forum, Spain’s leading independent and non-partisan debating organization.
Minister for the Cabinet Office Nick Thomas-Symonds said:
"Spain is home to one of the largest British communities across the world and I want to be clear that their Government back in the UK is representing their interests in Spain.
“I know that the last decade created uncertainties for the expat community. That is why we have worked to reset our relationship with the EU. It will soon be easier to get British produce in Spain thanks to our new food and drink deal with the EU.
"My visit this week has reinforced the strength of the UK-Spain relationship, and the Government’s ambition for a more positive and productive partnership with the European Union. I look forward to building on these discussions in the months ahead."