Applying For EU Residency In Spain
The process for registering or applying for residency in Spain depends on your nationality and personal circumstances. Whether you are an EU citizen, a family member of an EU citizen, or a non-EU national who has lived in Spain for several years, there are different routes available.
EU, EEA and Swiss Citizens
If you plan to live in Spain for more than three months, you generally need to register as an EU resident. You will apply using Form EX-18 and provide documents showing that you are working, self-employed, studying, or have sufficient financial means and healthcare cover.
Once registered, you receive a green EU registration certificate containing your NIE.
Non-EU Family Members of EU Citizens
If your spouse, registered partner or eligible family member is an EU citizen living in Spain, you may be able to apply for an EU family member residence card using Form EX-19.
You will generally need proof of your family relationship, identification documents and evidence that the EU citizen meets the relevant residence conditions.
Non-EU Citizens Applying for Long-Term Residence
If you are a non-EU national who has lived legally and continuously in Spain for five years, you may qualify for long-term residence. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for national long-term residence or EU long-term residence.
The EU long-term residence route uses Form EX-11 and has additional requirements, including sufficient regular financial resources and healthcare cover.
Each application has its own rules and supporting documents, so check with Spain Simplified to make sure your documents are correct, or you can have them make the applications for you.