Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland can live and work in Spain freely. But if they are staying for more than three months, they must register with the Central Register of Foreigners and obtain the EU citizen registration certificate, commonly known as “EU residency” or the “green card”.
Who has to apply
Any EU, EEA or Swiss citizen who will live in Spain for more than three months. The application must be made within three months of arrival.
Requirements
Besides a valid passport or ID card, you must prove one of the following:
- Working in Spain, as an employee (contract) or self-employed (autónomo registration).
- Having sufficient financial means for yourself and your family, plus health insurance with full cover in Spain (public or private).
- Studying at a recognised institution, with health insurance and sufficient means.
- Being a family member of an EU citizen who meets one of the above conditions.
Usual documents
- Official application form.
- Valid passport or ID card and a copy.
- Padrón (town hall registration) certificate.
- Documents proving your situation: contract, self-employed registration, bank statements, health insurance, enrolment…
- Proof of payment of the corresponding fee.
The procedure
- Gather the documents and pay the fee.
- Book an appointment at the immigration office or police station for your address.
- Submit the application in person.
- If everything is in order, the certificate is issued on the spot or within a few days.
What about the NIE?
The registration certificate includes your NIE. If you already had one (for example, to buy a property), you keep the same number.
We process it for you
Getting an appointment and gathering the right documents is what takes most time. At TL Gestoría we handle the whole EU residency process, in English, Spanish or Russian. See our prices or contact us.
