Thanks to the freedom of movement within the European Union, citizens from EU member states enjoy considerable flexibility when deciding where to live. Spain, with its sunny climate, rich culture, and high standard of living, is a popular choice — and fortunately, the process of becoming a legal resident is fairly straightforward for EU nationals.
That said, while the rules are more relaxed than for non-EU citizens, there are still specific steps and legal requirements involved in securing residency in Spain if you intend to stay longer than three months. This guide walks you through those steps, outlines the documents you’ll need, and explains the benefits of both temporary and permanent residency.
Why Choose Spanish Residency as an EU Citizen?
There are countless perks to living in Spain, and being a resident unlocks even more advantages (don't forget we can help you find your dream home on the Costa del Sol). For EU citizens, the path to legally live, work, and access public services in Spain is significantly easier than it is for third-country nationals.
With residency, you’ll enjoy:
- The ability to work or start a business without applying for a separate visa.
- Public education for your children.
- Access to public healthcare and certain state benefits.
- Uninterrupted travel across the EU and Schengen zone.
Moreover, after five years of legal residency, you can apply for permanent residency, and after ten years, you may be eligible for Spanish citizenship — making Spain not just a temporary destination, but a long-term home.
Who Must Apply for Residency?
While EU nationals can enter Spain freely and stay for up to 90 days without needing to register, anyone planning to live in the country beyond three months must apply for official residency.
This applies to:
- Employees and business owners – Individuals with a job offer or those who are self-employed.
- Students – Studying in Spain for more than three months requires proof of funds and health insurance.
- Retirees and pensioners – Must show evidence of sufficient income and private health cover if not eligible for state healthcare.
What Are the Residency Requirements?
To apply for residency in Spain as an EU citizen, you’ll need to provide:
- Proof of income or financial means: This might include an employment contract, pension statement, or recent bank records.
- Valid health insurance: Employed individuals are usually covered by the public system. Others must hold private cover.
- A valid passport or EU ID card: This confirms your identity and nationality.
- Padrón certificate (Empadronamiento): While not always essential, some provinces request proof of address registration at the local town hall.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Residency in Spain
Step 1: Register at Your Local Town Hall (Empadronamiento)
First, register your address at your local ayuntamiento (town hall). This process is called empadronamiento and is important for accessing public services and proving your local residence.
To register, bring:
- Your passport or EU ID card.
- A rental agreement, property deed, or a signed statement from your landlord.
- You'll be issued a Padrón Certificate, which may be required for future administrative tasks.
Step 2: Obtain Your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is essential for most legal and financial matters in Spain, including renting property, opening a bank account, and registering for work.
Apply for an NIE either in Spain or via a Spanish consulate in your home country.
You’ll need:
- The EX-15 form (completed).
- Your valid passport (and a photocopy).
- Form 790, Code 12 (plus the application fee paid).
- Additional documents may be needed if applying on behalf of someone else.
Note: In some cases, the NIE is processed during the residency application itself.
Step 3: Register as a Resident of Spain
Now it’s time to officially register your residency. This is done at the Oficina de Extranjería or designated police stations.
You’ll need:
- Passport or EU ID card.
- Proof of income/employment or financial self-sufficiency.
- Valid health insurance documentation.
- Padrón certificate (if requested).
If approved, you’ll receive a green residency certificate (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión), confirming your legal residency in Spain.
Step 4: Register with Social Security (If Working)
If you’re working or self-employed, registering with Seguridad Social is essential.
- Employees are usually registered automatically by their employer.
- Self-employed individuals (autónomos) must register themselves with the Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social (TGSS).
This step allows you to contribute to and benefit from Spain’s public healthcare and pension system.
Summary
Securing Spanish residency as an EU citizen is a relatively streamlined process — especially compared to those from outside the EU. By following the steps above and preparing the necessary documentation, you’ll be able to enjoy everything Spain has to offer, from the Mediterranean lifestyle to full legal protections as a resident.
Whether you're planning to work, retire, or simply enjoy a new pace of life, residency in Spain is your gateway to a fulfilling future in one of Europe’s most vibrant countries.