Quick answer
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can live in Spain freely, but staying over 3 months means registering to get the green NIE certificate. You show work or sufficient funds (~€600/month) plus health cover, complete the EX-18 form, pay the Modelo 790 fee, and attend a cita previa. There's no TIE for EU citizens.
How to register — step by step
- 1Book a cita previaAt the Oficina de Extranjería or a national police station.
- 2Complete EX-18 & pay the feeThe registration form plus the Modelo 790 code 012 fee.
- 3Prove your meansEmployment/self-employment, or funds + health insurance.
- 4Collect your green certificateYou receive the green NIE certificate the same day or shortly after.
Don't forget your empadronamiento — it's separate, and needed for healthcare and schools.
Frequently asked questions
Do EU citizens need a visa to live in Spain?▼
No. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens have the right to live and work in Spain. But if you stay longer than three months you must register as a resident and obtain the green registration certificate (the 'green NIE'), which contains your NIE number.
What is the green NIE?▼
It's the Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión — a small green card (or A4 certificate) proving you're registered as an EU resident in Spain. It shows your name, address, NIE number and registration date. It does not expire but should be updated if your details change.
What do I need to register as an EU citizen?▼
Proof that you can support yourself: either employment/self-employment in Spain, or sufficient financial means plus private or public health cover. You'll also complete the EX-18 form, pay the Modelo 790 (code 012) fee, and book a cita previa at the Oficina de Extranjería or a police station.
How much money do I need to show?▼
There's no single fixed figure, but authorities commonly look for around 100% of the IPREM (roughly €600/month) if you're not working, plus health insurance. Employed or self-employed applicants show their work instead.
Do EU citizens get a TIE?▼
No — the TIE card is for non-EU residents. EU citizens receive the green certificate instead. Family members of an EU citizen who are themselves non-EU get a separate 'tarjeta de familiar de ciudadano de la Unión'.
Do I still need empadronamiento?▼
Yes. Registering on the padrón at your town hall is separate from the EU registration and is needed for healthcare, schools and many procedures. See our empadronamiento guide.
Related guides & services
General information, not legal advice. Procedures vary by office and change — confirm current requirements with an official source or a licensed gestor.