EU regime · Royal Decree 240/2007
EU citizen registration certificate
Support for citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland who take up residence in Spain.
Is this the right option for you?
If you are going to live in Spain for more than three months, you must register in the Central Register of Foreign Nationals and obtain the registration certificate, known as the green NIE.
We review which case applies (employee, self-employed, student or person with their own resources, among others) and prepare the documents needed to obtain the registration certificate.
If your family members are not EU citizens, they will need the residence card for family members of EU citizens.
Main requirements
These are the essential requirements. The specific documents may vary depending on your nationality, your personal situation and changes in the law.
Employment or self-employment
Proving an employment relationship in Spain or a self-employed activity.
Resources and insurance
If you are not working, having sufficient resources for yourself and your family and health insurance covering you in Spain.
Studies
Being enrolled at a recognized institution, with health insurance and a declaration of sufficient resources.
Deadline
Applying within three months of entering Spain.
In person
The application is filed in person at the police station for your place of residence.
What it proves
The certificate proves your registration as a resident in Spain and includes your NIE.
Afterwards
After five years of legal and continuous residence you can apply for permanent residence.
How can we help?
- Initial eligibility review.
- Immigration strategy.
- Personalized checklist.
- Legal review of your documents.
- Preparing and filing your application.
- Follow-up with the authorities.
- Responding to requests for documents where applicable.
- Assistance with the steps after approval.
Usual documents
- Valid passport or national ID card.
- Employment contract, Social Security registration or self-employed registration, as applicable.
- Proof of financial resources and health insurance, if you are not working.
- Enrollment at the institution, if you are a student.
- Official form and proof of fee payment.
The final documents will depend on the applicant’s personal circumstances, nationality and the applicable procedure. After the initial review you will receive a personalized checklist.
Related procedures
- Family member of an EU citizenThe regime for family members of EU, EEA or Swiss citizens.See procedure
- Permanent residence under the EU regimeAfter completing the years of residence required under the EU regime.See procedure
- Spanish citizenship by residenceOnce you meet the required period of residence.See procedure
Tell us about your situation
We will review your case and explain which route may fit your circumstances.
The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration requirements may vary depending on the applicant’s personal circumstances and the legislation in force at the time of the application.