Requirements Green NIE Card for EU citizens in 2025
How to Secure the Green NIE Card as an EU Citizen in Spain in 2025 – Requirements & Professional Assistance
If you’re an EU citizen planning to establish your life or business in Spain for more than 90 days, obtaining the “green NIE card” (officially, the Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión Europea) is non-negotiable. This document doesn’t just legalize your residency—it gives you your NIE number, the essential ID you’ll need for anything from opening a bank account to signing an employment contract or renting property.
Who Needs the Green NIE?
Any EU/EEA/Swiss national intending to reside in Spain for over three months must secure this certificate. Unlike the temporary “white NIE” (used mainly for administrative tasks or one-off property purchases), the green NIE confirms you’re officially recognized as a resident under EU law.
What are the Requirements?
To qualify, you must demonstrate one of the following:
- Employed in Spain? Bring your work contract and Social Security registration.
- Self-employed? Present your autónomo registration, proof of Social Security affiliation, and, if necessary, a business statement.
- Not working but self-sufficient? Provide evidence of adequate financial means (recent bank statements) and private, comprehensive health insurance.
- Student? Submit your enrollment confirmation from a Spanish institution, proof of funds, and health insurance.
- Family member of an EU citizen already living here? Supply documents verifying your relationship and, if applicable, financial dependency.
Essential Documentation
- Completed EX-18 application form
- Valid passport or national ID, plus copies
- Empadronamiento certificate (proof of Spanish address)
- Evidence of employment, self-employment, financial means, or student status
- Health insurance (if not employed)
- Additional documents as requested by authorities
Processing Times
Timeframes for appointments at Extranjería vary by location. In major cities like Barcelona, you might wait between 1–5 weeks for an appointment. Once approved, you’ll typically receive the green NIE certificate on the same day.
Professional Support—Navigating Bureaucracy the Smart Way
Spanish administrative procedures can be overwhelming, especially for newcomers. Our agency streamlines the process for you, ensuring compliance and efficiency at every stage.
Our services include:
- Customized document preparation
- Application submission by a qualified immigration lawyer
- Appointment booking and status tracking (average wait: 1–5 weeks)
We meticulously review all documentation to prevent delays or rejections.
Pricing
- €399 + 21% VAT: Full service—document preparation and submission via legal representative (no appointment accompaniment).
- €599 + 21% VAT: All of the above, plus personal accompaniment to your Extranjería appointment (Barcelona only).
Whether you’re a remote professional, entrepreneur, student, or planning a new chapter in Spain, we’re dedicated to making your transition as seamless and compliant as possible.
Ready to begin? Contact us today to initiate your green NIE application.
