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Deutsch Residencia in Spain
EU, EEA and Swiss citizens staying in Spain for more than three months generally register in the Central Register of Foreigners. The resulting green certificate records residence but is different from the NIE, empadronamiento and a non-EU TIE card.
EU residence registration
Registration is generally required within three months of entering Spain when the stay will exceed that period.
The certificate contains the NIE and registered address but has no photograph and is not a travel document.
Employment, resources and health cover
Workers usually prove employment or Social Security registration; self-employed applicants prove their activity and registration.
Applicants who are not working normally demonstrate sufficient resources and comprehensive health cover without inappropriate exclusions or copay gaps.
Documents and evidence
Civil-status documents may be needed when rights derive from a spouse, partner, parent or child and foreign records may require apostille and sworn translation.
Passport or national identity card
EX-18 and fee payment
Employment, autónomo or resource evidence
Public or private health-cover evidence
Empadronamiento where requested
Appointment and green certificate
The application is commonly filed in person using EX-18 and Modelo 790 código 012 at the competent police or immigration office.
After five years of continuous legal residence, EU citizens may qualify for permanent residence registration, subject to absences and evidence.
Practical risks and individual review
An NIE obtained earlier does not replace residence registration, and empadronamiento alone does not prove compliance with EU residence conditions.
Requirements, appointment availability and administrative practice can differ by province and personal circumstances. We check the current competent authority and the evidence required before submission.
Useful official resources
Official requirements, fees and procedures can change. The competent authority and current rules are checked for each individual case.
Questions about Residencia in Spain
Is the green certificate the same as a TIE?
No. EU citizens normally receive a registration certificate; the biometric TIE is generally for non-EU nationals.
Do pensioners need health cover?
The applicable coordination rules and entitlement must be checked; an S1 form or qualifying cover may be relevant.
Does buying a home grant residencia?
No. Ownership alone does not satisfy the EU registration conditions.
When is permanent residence possible?
Normally after five years of continuous legal residence, subject to the statutory rules.
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Important: This page provides general information and does not replace individual legal, tax, labour, medical or technical advice. Authorities decide applications and disputes independently. Requirements and practice may change.