The regulations and requirements for Residencia are constantly being changed to make the process easier for EU citizens. We have listed below the requirements as at February 2007, but please check with us when you come for an appointment to see if changes have since been introduced.
What recent changes have been introduced in relation to Residency application in Spain for citizens of the European Community?
In accordance with the Royal Decree Nº 240 passed in February 2007 arising from the European Directive 38/2004 the legislation has been changed in terms of length of stay in Spain in relation to the requirement of a Spanish Residency Certificate
The following changes have been implemented:
Citizens from a European Community member state or from a state that is part of the European Economic Agreement can enter, leave and travel freely in any Spanish territory.
In the case of residing in Spain for less than 3 months it is sufficient to simply possess a current passport or I.D. document.
Those wishing to reside in Spain for more than 3 months are obliged to apply personally for their inscription in the Central Registry of Foreigners and are then provided with a Residency Certificate. This substitutes the previously issued Residency Card.
Please note that the Residency Certificate cannot be used as an identification document so it does not have the same function as the previous Residency Card. In view of this you will need to carry your identification document (passport, Identity Card etc.) with you at all times.
Where does one apply for the certificate?
The certificate must be applied for personally from the Foreigner's Office in the province of residency or the corresponding National Police station. Prior to submitting the application an administration fee has to be paid to the authorities via selected banks.
Ábaco can assist you in the application process and we provide a one trip only, door to door service. An experienced member of staff will collect and accompany you to the appropriate Foreigner's Office or National Police station where he/she will deal with the application in the manner required (this can vary from office to office). Your Residency Certificate will be obtained during this single appointment.
