NIE Verde in Spain – Why You Need the Spanish Residence Card

If you’re planning to relocate to Barcelona or already living here for more than 3 months, applying for a Spanish Residence Card, also known as NIE Verde (Green NIE), is a legal requirement — and a crucial step for smooth integration into life in Spain. The NIE Verde is a type of residence card and an official document required for legal residence, confirming your status as a resident and necessary for various country-specific procedures.

What Is the NIE Verde?

The NIE Verde (Certificado de Registro como Residente Comunitario) is an official document issued to EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who plan to live in Spain for more than 90 days. It proves your legal residence status in Spain and is used to prove your right to reside in Spain. The green paper card is an official document that includes your NIE number, which is a personal identifier assigned to each applicant by the authorities, along with your full name, nationality, and registration date.

 Note: Spanish Residence Card is not the same as the white NIE paper, which is issued for tax identification only. The green NIE grants residency rights in Spain.

The application process for the NIE Verde involves submitting specific forms and documentation.

Why Do You Need the NIE Verde?

The NIE Verde is mandatory for all EU citizens staying in Spain for longer than 3 months, therefore, without it, you are not officially registered as a resident. It is important to register your residence with the local authorities within the required timeframe to comply with Spanish law and confirm your right to live in Spain, which may cause issues with:

• Access to public healthcare (Tarjeta Sanitaria)
• Opening a resident bank account
• Registering your children at school
• Working legally or starting a business
• Applying for driving license exchange
• Proving your tax residency in Spain
• Proof of residence (you must provide your current address as part of the application)

Most importantly, Spanish law requires it for long-term EU residents.

Who Is Eligible? Requirements for the NIE Verde

The NIE Verde is designed for foreign nationals who plan to reside in Spain for more than three months, whether for economic, professional, or social reasons. To qualify, applicants must be EU citizens, EEA nationals, Swiss nationals, or family members of an EU national. This identification number is essential for anyone wishing to work permanently, open a bank account, purchase property, or access a range of services in Spain.

📝 How to Apply for NIE Verde in Barcelona

You must apply in person at the Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería) in Barcelona. Remember that he application process for the NIE Verde involves several procedures and is overseen by the relevant authorities. After your application is submitted, it will be processed by the authorities before you can obtain your NIE Verde. Here’s how the process works:

1. Book an Appointment Online

Visit the official appointment booking site:

👉 https://sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es

Please note: Appointments are often in high demand, so it is advisable to book as early as possible.

2. Prepare Required Documents

You must bring all required documentation to your appointment. Make sure all documents are current and have not expired, as expired documents may not be accepted. Documentation requirements may vary depending on your country of residence, therefore please double check required documentation on the official website

Bring the following to your appointment:

• Completed EX-18 form (available online)
• Valid passport or national ID (original + copy; ensure your document does not expire during the application period)
• Proof of residence in Barcelona (rental contract or utility bill)
• Proof of sufficient financial means (job contract, bank statement, etc.)
• Proof of health coverage (private insurance)
• Paid tax form Modelo 790, code 012 (~€12) — This is a mandatory fee for processing your NIE application. Payment can be made online, by bank deposit, or direct debit.

Note: Some documents may need to be legalized or apostilled depending on the issuing country.

3. Go to Your Appointment

Submit your documents at the designated office in Barcelona. After your documents are processed and approved, you will obtain your NIE Verde the same day. Once you receive your NIE Verde, you are officially registered as a resident in Spain.

👥 Can Someone Apply for You?

No. The Spanish Residence Card (NIE Verde) must be applied for in person by the foreign national. A duly accredited representative cannot apply on your behalf; only the applicant is eligible to submit the application. However, your real estate advisor or relocation consultant can help you prepare the paperwork and guide you through the process.

🏡 Thinking of Moving to Barcelona?

The NIE Verde is a key requirement for enjoying your new life in Barcelona legally and securely. For example, just as the U.S. Green Card confirms permanent residency status, the NIE Verde or residence card is essential for legal residence in Spain. If you are moving with a family member, such as a parent or your parents, they may also need to apply for a residence card or visa, especially in family-based applications. 

➡️ Discover how to save money on cultural events in Barcelona with Resident discounts

➡️ You don’t need Spanish Residence Card? Click here if you need information on how to obtain fiscal NIE number