Methods and apparatus are provided for path switching between an evolved Node B (eNB) and a Mobile Management Entity (MME). The eNB transmits a Path Switch Request message informing that a User Equipment (UE) has changed cells, to the MME. The Path Switch Request message includes an eNB UE S1AP ID, a Tracking Area Identifier (TAI), and cell Identifier (ID). The eNB UE S1AP ID uniquely identifies UE association over an S1 interface within the eNB. The eNB receives a Path Switch Request Acknowledge message including an MME UE S1AP ID and the eNB UE S1AP ID, from the MME. The MME UE S1AP ID uniquely identifies UE association over an S1 interface within the MME. The TAI corresponds to a cell in which the UE is located.