EU citizen registration in Spain (EX-18)

What it is

• The Certificado de registro de ciudadano de la UE records you in the Central Register of Foreigners. Your NIE number is printed on it.[1]
• The application form is EX-18, written in Spanish. The fee is paid with Tasa 790 code 012.[2]

Who needs it

• EU, EEA and Swiss citizens who stay in Spain for more than 3 months. For shorter stays you don’t need to register.[1]
• Non-EU family members of an EU citizen apply separately for a family residence card (EX-19).[1][2]

Where and how long

• Within 3 months of arriving in Spain.[1]
• Book online: choose your province and the procedure “Certificado de registro de ciudadano de la U.E.”.[1]
• In most cases the certificate is issued at the appointment.[1]

How it works

1. Check that you will stay more than 3 months and note your deadline.[1]
2. Prepare proof for your reason for staying (work, self-employment, study or sufficient means).[1]
3. Book a cita previa for the EU registration certificate in your province.[1]
4. Fill in the EX-18 form and pay the Tasa 790-012 at a bank, choosing the EU registration certificate item.[2]
5. Go to the appointment with your documents and receive your certificate.[1]

Documents to prepare

• EX-18 application form, signed[1]
• Passport or national ID card (original and copy)[1]
• Proof for your reason for staying (employment, self-employment, study with health insurance, or health insurance and sufficient means)[1]
• Tasa 790-012 receipt[2]

Titles only. The final list is the one given by the office handling your case.

3 common mistakes

1. 1. Booking the wrong procedureProcedure names differ slightly by province. Look for the EU citizen registration certificate in your own province.[1]
2. 2. Health insurance that doesn’t cover the stayStudents and people who don’t work need health insurance. A European Health Insurance Card must be valid for the whole period.[1]
3. 3. Missing the 3-month deadlineIf you stay longer than 3 months, register within 3 months of arriving.[1]

Official sources

1. Cita previa — Extranjería (administracionelectronica.gob.es)
2. Policía Nacional — Tasa modelo 790, código 012

This is a general overview, not legal advice. Rules can change; always check the official source and the office handling your case.