How to obtain residency in Spain: A comprehensive guide

Considering a move to Spain? Before immersing yourself in the country's rich history, diverse culture, and exquisite cuisine, it is essential to secure your residency. While navigating the legal requirements and paperwork may seem challenging, this comprehensive guide aims to simplify the process for European Union and non-European Union citizens. We will cover various types of residency permits, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and essential documents required, helping you achieve a seamless transition to Spanish residency. Let's begin your journey towards a new life in Spain.

Residency for European Union Citizens

As a citizen of the European Union (EU), the process of obtaining residency in Spain is relatively straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

Step 1. Register at the local town hall (Empadronamiento)

Upon arriving in Spain, you need to register with the local town hall in your area of residence. Registering at the local town hall, also known as "empadronamiento," is an essential step for anyone planning to reside in Spain for more than three months. This process helps the municipality keep track of its residents and allocate resources accordingly.

Here are the steps and documents needed for 'empadronamiento'

• Find your local town hall: Locate the town hall (Ayuntamiento) in the municipality where you reside. You can find a directory of town halls in Spain here. The website is only in Spanish, but you only need to write the name of the province and a list of town halls will appear.
• Gather the required documents: The documents needed for empadronamiento may vary slightly depending on the municipality, but generally, you will need the following:
  • A valid passport or national identity card
  • A completed empadronamiento application form (available at the town hall)
  • Proof of residence, such as a rental contract or property deed

Submit your application

Visit your local town hall with the required documents and submit your application. Some town halls may require an appointment, so it's a good idea to call ahead or check their website for specific instructions.

Receive your 'empadronamiento' certificate

Once your application is approved, you will receive a certificate (Certificado de Empadronamiento) confirming your registration with the municipality. This document may be required for various administrative procedures, such as obtaining a residency permit, accessing healthcare services, or enrolling in local schools.

Remember to update your empadronamiento if you change your address or personal information, as keeping your registration up-to-date is essential for maintaining your legal status in Spain. You can read more about the benefits of being empadronado in our article What is the Padrón and how to register on it.

Step 2. Apply for a residency certificate (Certificado de Registro Europeo)

EU citizens who plan to stay in Spain for more than three months must apply for a residency certificate. This can be done at the nearest Foreigners Office (Oficina de Extranjeros) or National Police Station (Comisaría de Policía) with the Foreigners Department. You can find your nearest office here.

To apply for the residency certificate, you will need the following documents:

• A valid passport or national identity card
• EX-18 application form duly completed and signed
• Proof of employment or self-employment, or proof of sufficient financial means
• Proof of public or private health insurance

Obtain your residency certificate

Once your application has been approved, you will be issued a residency certificate (Certificado de Registro) with your name, address, nationality, and NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero). This certificate serves as proof of your legal residency in Spain.

Residency for Non-European Union Citizens

For non-European Union (non-EU) citizens, the process of obtaining residency in Spain is a bit more complex. The following steps outline the general process:

Step 1. Apply for a long-term visa:

Before arriving in Spain, non-EU citizens must apply for a long-term visa at the nearest Spanish consulate or embassy in their country of residence. There are several types of long-term visas, such as work, investment visas and non-lucrative visas.

Here is a brief overview of the most common visa options:

• Work Visa: A work visa is required for non-EU citizens who have been offered a job in Spain. To obtain a work visa, the applicant must have a job offer from a Spanish employer. The employer will need to apply for a work permit on behalf of the applicant, and once this is approved, the applicant can apply for a work visa. The work visa is typically valid for the duration of the employment contract.
• Non-Lucrative Visa: A non-lucrative visa is designed for non-EU citizens with sufficient financial means to support themselves without working in Spain. This visa is ideal for retirees or individuals who wish to live in Spain without engaging in any professional or commercial activities. To qualify for a non-lucrative visa, the applicant must provide proof of sufficient income or savings and have comprehensive health insurance coverage. The non-lucrative visa is initially valid for one year and can be renewed for additional two-year periods.
• Entrepreneur Visa: The entrepreneur visa is aimed at non-EU citizens who wish to start a business or invest in Spain. To qualify for this visa, the applicant must present a business plan and demonstrate that their project is innovative and will create jobs in Spain. The entrepreneur visa is initially valid for one year, and it can be renewed for additional two-year periods as long as the business continues to meet the requirements.
• Family Reunification Visa: A family reunification visa allows non-EU citizens who hold a valid long-term visa or residency in Spain to bring their spouse, children, or dependent relatives to live with them. To apply for a family reunification visa, the applicant must prove that they have sufficient financial means to support their family members and provide adequate housing for them in Spain. The family reunification visa is typically valid for the same duration as the applicant's visa or residency.
• Golden Visa (Investment Visa): The Golden Visa, also known as the Investment Visa, is the answer to the question: "Do I get Spanish residency when buying a property?" This special residency visa, designed for non-European citizens, enables you to get residency when buying a property that is worth at least €500,000. This visa aims to attract foreign investors and stimulate the Spanish economy. To qualify for a Golden Visa, the applicant must make a substantial investment in Spain, which can be done through various ways, not only by buying property in Spain.

Remember that the requirements and processing times for each visa type may vary depending on the applicant's country of origin and the specific Spanish consulate or embassy handling the application.

Step 2. Enter Spain and register at the local town hall (Empadronamiento):

Once you have obtained your long-term visa, you can enter Spain and register with the local town hall in your area of residence, as described in the section for European Union citizens.

Step 3. Apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE)

Within 30 days of arriving in Spain, non-European Union citizens must apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero, or TIE) at the nearest Foreigners Office or National Police Station with a Foreigners Department.

To apply for the TIE, you will need the following documents:

• A valid passport with your long-term visa
• EX-17 application form duly completed and signed
• Proof of payment of the corresponding fee (Form 790, Code 012)
• Three recent passport-sized photographs
• Any additional documents required depending on your visa type (e.g., work contract, proof of sufficient financial means, etc.)

Obtain your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE)

Once your application has been approved, you will be issued a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE), which serves as proof of your legal residency in Spain. The TIE is valid for the same duration as your visa and can be renewed as needed.

By following these steps and ensuring that you have all the necessary documentation, you can successfully navigate the process of obtaining residency in Spain in 2023. Whether you are a European Union or non-European Union citizen, it is essential to stay informed about any changes in residency requirements and procedures. Keep an eye on the official Spanish government websites for the most up-to-date information. Are you ready to make Spain your new home? Start searching for your ideal property today and take the first step towards your Spanish residency.