EU/EEA Registration
Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Union
Not a visa but a mandatory registration for EU/EEA/Swiss nationals planning to stay in Spain longer than 3 months. The process is straightforward - attend an appointment at the immigration office with proof of work, study, or sufficient resources. You receive the green NIE certificate card on the spot. This is the most common process for European nationals moving to Barcelona.
Real Decreto 240/2007Permanent (certificate has no expiry)EUR 12 application fee
Requirements
- Valid EU/EEA passport or national ID card
- Proof of one of: employment in Spain, self-employment registration, sufficient resources + health insurance, or enrollment in educational institution
- Empadronamiento (municipal registration)
- NIE number (assigned during the process if not already held)
- Passport-size photograph
- Completed EX-18 form
Timeline & Cost
Benefits
- Right to live and work in Spain without restrictions
- Access to public healthcare through social security
- Access to public education for children
- No renewal required - permanent registration
- Can apply for permanent residency certificate after 5 years
- Full labor rights and access to all professions
Limitations
- Must register within 3 months of arrival in Spain
- Appointment availability can be limited (book early through sede electronica)
- Must maintain one of the qualifying conditions (work, study, or resources)
- Green NIE card does not replace passport for travel
- If leaving Spain for 6+ months, registration may be questioned
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