Residence Certificate in Spain for EU Citizens: How to Get the Certificado de Registro

If you’re an EU citizen living in Spain, you’re legally required to register your residency if you plan to stay longer than 90 days. This means obtaining the Certificado de Registro como Ciudadano de la Unión, commonly known as the residence certificate.

This guide walks you through the requirements, documents, and process for obtaining your green certificate in Spain.

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📄 What Is the Certificado de Registro?

The Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la UE is:

• A green paper card (A4 or wallet-sized)

• Issued by Extranjería (Foreigners Office) or Policía Nacional

• Proof that you’re registered as an EU resident in Spain

It includes:

• Your full name

• Your NIE number

• Date of registration

• Address (optional)

⚠️ Unlike non-EU citizens, EU nationals do not receive a TIE card, but this certificate functions as your legal residency proof.

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🛂 Who Needs It?

All EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who stay in Spain more than 90 days must register. This includes:

• Remote workers

• Students

• Freelancers/self-employed

• Retirees

• Spouses or dependents of EU citizens

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📋 Requirements to Qualify

You must prove that you fall into one of the categories defined by immigration authorities:

1. 💼 Employed in Spain

Show a job contract or proof of social security registration.

2. 📊 Self-Employed (Autónomo)

Provide a registration certificate from the tax agency and social security.

3. 🏖 Retired or Not Working

You must prove:

• Sufficient financial means

• Private or public health insurance

4. 🎓 Student

Submit:

• School/university enrollment letter

• Health insurance

• Proof of financial support

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🧾 Documents You’ll Need

✅ Valid passport or national ID card
✅ Completed EX-18 form
✅ Proof of employment, income, or studies
✅ Health insurance (if not employed)
✅ Empadronamiento certificate
✅ Proof of address in Spain
✅ €12 tax payment receipt (Modelo 790 Código 012)

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💶 How to Pay the Tax (Modelo 790)

1. Download the Modelo 790 Código 012 form here

2. Fill it out online and print

3. Pay at any Spanish bank (€12 approx.)

4. Keep the proof of payment

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🏢 Where to Apply

You must book an appointment (cita previa) at:

• Oficina de Extranjería

• Policía Nacional office in your area

🔗 Appointment site: https://sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es

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🕓 When to Apply

• Within 90 days of arriving in Spain

• Sooner is better: It’s often needed for bank accounts, healthcare access, or legal residence proof

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🧑‍💼 How Borderless Lawyers Can Help

We’ve helped hundreds of EU citizens navigate the confusing Spanish bureaucracy. Our team can:

• Confirm exactly what documents you need based on your case

• Book your appointment and fill out all EX-18 and Modelo 790 forms

• Help you prepare your financial or insurance proof

• Accompany you to your appointment or represent you with Power of Attorney