European Residency Certificate
Everything You Need to Know to Live in Spain
What is the European Union Citizen Registration Certificate in Spain?
The European Union Citizen Registration Certificate (also known as the green card) is a legal document that allows citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland to reside and work in Spain for more than three months.
It is a straightforward process for those wishing to move to Spain permanently, whether to work, study, or simply enjoy the country without engaging in work activities.
This certificate not only ensures legal residence in Spain but also assigns a NIE (Foreign Identification Number) in case you do not have it, which will be necessary for most administrative procedures in the country.
Why is the EU Registration Certificate important?
Benefits of Obtaining the EU Registration Certificate
The EU Registration Certificate allows you to live legally in Spain without time restrictions and provides multiple legal and administrative benefits:
Right to work in Spain
You can legally work in Spain as either an employee or self-employed
Unlimited residence
Live in Spain indefinitely without restrictions.
Access to public services
A key requirement to register with Social Security and access the public healthcare system.
Banking and tax procedures
Essential for opening bank accounts and managing taxes in Spain.
Facilitating family reunification
You can bring dependent family members, granting them the right to reside in Spain.
EU Registration Certificate
Key advice before moving to Spain
If you plan to reside in Spain, we recommend contacting us before your arrival. Depending on your situation, you may need to request specific documents from your home country. Additionally, obtaining the European Health Insurance Card is advisable, as you won’t be able to register with the Spanish healthcare system until you receive your EU Citizen Registration Certificate.
What are the requirements
Requirements for the European Union Citizen Registration Certificate
To obtain this certificate, you must meet one of the following conditions:
Employed work
Be employed in Spain. You must provide a work contract or an employer's declaration.
Self-employed work
Be self-employed with an economic activity in the country. You need to be registered in the Economic Activities Census or the Commercial Registry, depending on your activity.
Financial Means
If you will not work, you must prove to have sufficient financial means to support yourself and your family, along with private health insurance.
Students
Be a student enrolled in an educational institution with health insuranc and have adequate health insurance. You will also need to provide a declaration of sufficient financial resources.
What are the process
Steps to obtain the EU Citizen Registration Certificate
1. Find a Place to Live
First, you’ll need a residence.
You can either purchase property or rent a long-term accommodation.
2. Municipal Registration
Register in the municipal census of the city where you live.
This step will provide you with a registration certificate, which you will need for the next step.
3. Gather the required documents
4. Schedule an appointment
The application must be submitted at the Immigration Office or Police Station in your local area.
You can schedule an appointment here.
5. Pay the administrative fee
Before submitting your application, you must pay the corresponding fee (Modelo 790 Código 012). Download the fee here.
6. Submit your application
Attend the appointment with all the required documents.
Once the documents are submitted, and the corresponding fee is paid, the certificate will be issued immediately.
Make it Easy with Us!
Expert legal assistance for your residence in Spain
At Fuster & Associates, we specialize in immigration, taxation, and real estate law. Our team of expert lawyers will guide you through the entire EU Registration Certificate process, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements and avoiding potential complications.
Contact us today and start living your new life in Spain hassle-free.
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions EU Citizen Registration Certificate
With strategically located offices and a highly experienced team, we guarantee complete support.
Expect a prompt response from our dedicated team, ready to assist you.
Do I need the certificate if I will only be in Spain for less than three months?
No, the EU Citizen Registration Certificate is only required for stays exceeding three months. However, if you plan to extend your stay beyond this period, you must apply for the certificate to comply with Spanish residency regulations.
Can I work while waiting to obtain the certificate?
Yes, as an EU citizen, you have the right to work in Spain even if you have not yet received the certificate. However, having the certificate can simplify certain administrative processes.
What happens if I lose the certificate?
If you lose your EU Citizen Registration Certificate, you should report it to the local police and request a duplicate from the Immigration Office or Police Station. It is recommended to bring your passport or national ID and any supporting documents from your original application.
Can I bring my family with me?
Yes, as an EU citizen, your family members can join you in Spain. If they are also EU citizens, they may need to register as residents. If they are non-EU nationals, they must apply for a Residence Card for Family Members of an EU Citizen, which allows them to live and work in Spain under the same conditions.
How long does the appointment process take?
It varies depending on the region. In areas with high demand, securing an appointment can take several weeks or more, so it is recommended to book it as early as possible
How long does it take to receive the certificate?
If all required documents are in order, you may receive the certificate immediately after your appointment. However, in some cases, it might take a few days
Do I need private health insurance to apply for the certificate?
Yes, unless you are employed, self-employed, or covered by another valid healthcare entitlement in Spain. If you are not contributing to Social Security, you must provide proof of comprehensive private health insurance that covers you for the duration of your stay.
Can I apply for permanent residency with this certificate?
Yes, after legally residing in Spain for five consecutive years with your EU Citizen Registration Certificate, you can apply for permanent residency, which grants you the right to stay indefinitely under similar conditions to Spanish nationals.
What happens if I don’t apply for the certificate within three months?
Failure to register within the required period may result in administrative penalties or fines. It is strongly recommended to apply as soon as possible to avoid complications.
What should I do after obtaining my certificate?
- Sign up for healthcare: If you are eligible for public healthcare, you should register with your local health center. If not, ensure you have valid private health insurance.
- Understand your tax obligations: Depending on your residency status, you may be subject to Spanish taxes, so it is advisable to seek professional guidance.