How to get the green NIE ‘residencia’ card in Malaga

To stay in Spain for more than 90 days as an EU/EEA citizen, you must register with the local authorities to obtain a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) and a corresponding Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión (EU residency certificate).

The EU residency certificate, commonly called the “green NIE” or “residency card”, is issued on a small, credit-card-sized piece of green paper which is laminated on the rear side.

In the past, this document was issued on an A4-sized green sheet of paper. Although this format is still valid, those with an A4 green NIE likely registered a significant time ago, indicating long-term residency in Spain.

What’s the difference between a NIE and a ‘green NIE’?

There are several differences between a NIE and an EU residency certificate.

Although they are both often issued at the same time, a NIE is simply an identification number that can be used for legal, administrative and fiscal purposes

By contrast, the ‘green NIE’ contains your personal details, such as your full name, date and place of birth, address in Spain, and the date you applied for it. Crucially, it serves as proof of residency in Spain. In fact, its primary function is to demonstrate the right to live and work in Spain under EU freedom of movement laws.

Non-EU citizens can only get a NIE (and will need a separate residency permit), while EU/EEA citizens get a ‘green NIE’ as both their identification and residency document.

Who is eligible for a green NIE card?

A ‘green NIE card’ is available to citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland who plan to reside in Spain for more than 90 days, including:

• Working individuals, either as employees or self-employed.
• Retirees or individuals living off passive income (proof of comprehensive health insurance and sufficient financial resources required).
• Students enrolled in a recognised educational institution in Spain who have sufficient financial resources and health insurance.
• Family members (spouse, children, or dependents) of an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen residing in Spain (proof of the family relationship and the EU citizen’s status in Spain required).

If you’re a non-EU citizen, including from the United Kingdom, you cannot apply for a green NIE card – you must apply for a TIE card (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) instead.

How do you get a green NIE card in Malaga?

Obtaining a green NIE (EU Residency Certificate) in Malaga is a relatively simple process, but if you don’t speak Spanish, it can be a bit challenging. Many people choose to hire an English-speaking notario (notary), who can manage the process on their behalf once authorised.

However, if you prefer to handle it yourself, this step-by-step guide will help you navigate the procedure.

Step 1: Book an appointment at the police station

The National Police processes NIE applications in Malaga, so you’ll need to go to the the comisería (police station) on the western side of the city.

First, you must book an appointment online. To do this:

1. Follow this link (those accessing from outside Spain may need to use a VPN).
2. Select “Málaga” as your province.
3. For the office, choose “CNP MÁLAGA Provincial, Plaza de Manuel Azaña, 3“.
4. Select “POLICIA-CERTIFICADO DE REGISTRO DE CIUDADANO DE LA U.E.” from the drop-down menu before clicking “Aceptar“.
5. The following page will outline the requirements for your application. Click “Entrar.”
6. On the following page, select either “NIE” or “Pasaporte” (if you don’t have a NIE yet) and enter the corresponding number and name. Click “Aceptar“.
7. Next, click “Solicitar Cita” and provide your phone number and email address.
8. Choose a date and time for your appointment and click “Siguiente” to confirm.

Note: Appointments can be hard to come by during busy periods or holidays, so check the website frequently as new slots may open up.

Step 2: Prepare your paperwork

To apply for an EU residency certificate in Spain, you must bring the following documents (and copies) to your appointment:

1. Two copies of the application form (EX-18), completed and signed.
2. A valid passport or national ID. If it has expired, bring both a copy and proof of renewal.

Depending on your work situation, you’ll also be expected to bring the following:

• Employed workers should present a certificate or declaration from their employer, proof of contract, or documentation showing Social Security registration.
• Self-employed individuals must provide proof of business registration and affiliation with Social Security.
• Non-working residents, such as retirees, must show proof of comprehensive health insurance and sufficient financial resources (e.g., property ownership, income statements, or a certified bank statement).
• Students must bring proof of enrollment, health insurance (or a European Health Insurance Card), and a declaration that they have adequate financial resources.
• Family members of EU citizens will need to present proof of the family relationship, economic dependence, and documentation verifying the EU relative’s employment or financial independence.

Step 3: Pay the processing fee

To process your application, you’ll need proof of payment for the processing fee, which, as of October 2024, costs €12.

To pay the Tasa modelo 790 Código 012 online, you must:

1. Follow this link.
2. Fill in your personal details.
3. In the Autoliquidación section, select Principal.
4. Under “Tarjetas de identidad de extranjeros (TIE) y certificados de registro de residentes comunitarios“, choose “Certificado de registro de residente comunitario o Tarjeta de residencia de familiar de un ciudadano de la Unión.“
5. For the “localidad“, type “Málaga,” and the fee will automatically appear in the “Ingreso” section.
6. Select “En efectivo” to pay in cash (recommended if you have a foreign bank account), complete the CAPTCHA, and download the filled-out form.
7. Take the printed form to any bank to pay the fee in cash. The bank will stamp your form as proof of payment.

Important: Most banks only process these payments in the morning, so avoid leaving it until the last minute. Also, pay this fee during the two weeks before your appointment—if you pay too early and need to reschedule, you’ll need to pay again.

Step 4: Attend your appointment

On the day of your appointment, make sure to arrive on time. The police station is easily accessible by bus or taxi from Alameda Principal in the city centre. It’s a large building with a helipad on the roof, making it hard to miss.

Upon arrival, head to the main entrance and wait by the right-hand door. A police officer will come out every few minutes to call those with appointments for that time. When your turn comes, present your documents to the officer.

If your paperwork is in order, the officer may issue your card immediately or give you a receipt with an estimated time for when you can return to collect it.

Tip: Bring extra photocopies of all documents, including a blank copy of the EX18 form, just in case any corrections are needed. This can save you from having to return for a second appointment.