The Green Residency Certificate, also referred to as the Certificado de Residencia, is a credit card-sized document of a verdant hue. It is a mandatory requirement for EU and EEA citizens intending to reside in Spain for a period exceeding three months, serving as the official confirmation of residency. Obtaining this certificate is essential and should be completed within the initial 90 days of arrival.
To secure the Green Residency Certificate, EU/EEA nationals must satisfy at least ONE of the following criteria:
- Holding a Spanish work contract
- Operating as a self-employed individual in Spain
- Demonstrating private funds/savings along with healthcare coverage (either private or public)
- Enrolling as a student with valid health cover and adequate financial resources
The application process takes place at the local Comisaria (Police station), where the certificate is issued on the same day. This document includes your NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero), a unique identification number for foreigners in Spain. If you don’t already possess an NIE, one will be assigned to you during the application process.
While the Green Residency Certificate itself does not have an expiry date, it can be exchanged for a “Permanente” (permanent) version after five years of continuous residency. This type of certificate was initially issued in a green A4 format in 2007 but transitioned to the current credit card size in 2012.
Should you require help in obtaining one, please get in touch:
WhatsApp: +34 689 735 224
Email: resi@yourspanishpaperwork.com