If you plan to stay in Spain for more than 90 days, you must register as a resident and obtain a green NIE. Citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland do not need a visa to enter but must register after this period.

The green NIE, formally known as the “Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión,” is a document that must be obtained by citizens of EEA member countries and Switzerland who plan to reside in Spain for more than 90 days. This certificate confirms the citizen’s registration in the Central Registry of Foreigners and is necessary to carry out a wide variety of administrative and legal activities in Spain.

Necessary Documentation:

• Application Form EX-18: Duly completed and signed.
• Passport or Identity Card: Original and copy.
• Proof of Financial Means: This can be a work contract, bank statements showing financial solvency, or any other document that proves you can support yourself financially.
• Health Insurance: Proof that you have health insurance coverage in Spain.
• Proof of Payment of the Administrative Fee: Form 790, code 012, payable at any bank.

Place of Submission:

• The procedure must be carried out in person at the immigration offices in the province where you plan to reside or, if not possible, at the corresponding police station.

Appointment:
You need to request an appointment to submit the documentation. You can schedule an appointment on the Cita Previa de Extranjería website.

Having the green NIE allows you to complete multiple essential formalities for daily life in Spain, such as:

• Open a bank account.
• Sign up for basic utilities such as electricity, water, and internet.
• Sign rental contracts.
• Enroll in courses and universities.
• Access the public health system.
• Work legally.

You must go to the immigration office or police station in the province where you will live. For Málaga, you can find the locations and details at the Oficina de Extranjería de Málaga.

Yes, you can begin the procedure before you have been in Spain for 90 days.

Yes, an appointment is generally required to complete the procedure. You can request it via Cita Previa Extranjería.

• Form EX-18
• Appointment for Foreigners
• Information about the NIE on the Ministry of the Interior website