Form EX-18: Application for the EU citizen registration certificate
Before starting the procedure: requirements and procedures may change. Check the information applicable to your case and consult the relevant official sources.
Updated guide
Form EX-18: how to apply for the EU citizen registration certificate
EX-18 is the form used by citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area or Switzerland to apply for their registration certificate if they are going to live in Spain for more than three months.
Form
EX-18
Document
EU registration certificate
Fee
790 Code 012
Processing time
If you live in Spain for more than 3 months
Quick summary
- The Form EX-18 is used to apply for the EU citizen registration certificate in Spain.
- It must be applied for by EU, EEA or Swiss citizens who wish to live in Spain for more than three months.
- It is usually submitted in person at the relevant Immigration Office or Police Station.
- You must provide evidence of the basis for your residence: employment, self-employment, studies, sufficient financial resources or being a family member of an EU citizen.
- The associated fee is paid using Form 790, Code 012.
- The certificate includes the NIE and confirms registration in the Central Register of Foreign Nationals.
Form EX-18 is the official form used to apply for the European Union citizen registration certificate in Spain. This document confirms that a citizen of the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland has registered with the Central Register of Foreign Nationals because they are going to live in Spain for more than three months.
This is a common procedure for European citizens coming to live, work, study, start a business or settle in Spain. It is often confused with the NIE, but they are not exactly the same: the NIE is an identification number, whereas the registration certificate confirms residence as an EU citizen.
Key point
If you are an EU citizen and are going to live in Spain for more than three months, having a passport or identity document is not enough. You must apply for the registration certificate if you meet the legal requirements to reside in Spain.
What is the EU citizen registration certificate?
The EU citizen registration certificate is the document confirming that a citizen of a European Union Member State, the European Economic Area or Switzerland is registered in the Central Register of Foreign Nationals because they reside in Spain.
This certificate is also commonly known as the EU citizen residence certificate, the green certificate or, less precisely, the “green NIE”. The certificate does include an NIE number, but its purpose is not limited to assigning a number: it also certifies residence as an EU citizen.
It may be required to work, open a bank account, sign certain contracts, carry out administrative procedures, access services, prove legal residence or start subsequent procedures in Spain.
What is Form EX-18 used for?
Form EX-18 is used to submit an application for the registration certificate. This form records the applicant’s personal details, address in Spain, grounds for residence and contact information.
The form is mainly used in the following cases:
Employed work
When you come to Spain with a job offer from a company or already have an employment relationship.
Self-employment
If you are going to work as a self-employed person, professional or business owner in Spain.
Studying in Spain
If you are coming to study and can provide proof of enrolment, health insurance and sufficient financial means.
Living in Spain without working
If you have sufficient financial resources and health insurance to live in Spain without becoming a burden on the public system.
If you are coming to Spain to study, you may also find our guide on the European Health Insurance Card vs health insurance for a student visa useful, although the rules may vary depending on the specific circumstances of EU citizens.
Difference between an NIE and an EU registration certificate
One of the most common questions is whether the registration certificate and the NIE are the same thing. Not exactly.
| Document | What it certifies | Main purpose |
|---|---|---|
| NIE | It is a foreigner identification number. | To identify you in tax, administrative, banking or employment procedures. |
| EU registration certificate | It certifies your registration as an EU citizen residing in Spain. | To prove legal residence as an EU citizen. |
| TIE | In many cases, it is a physical card issued to non-EU foreign nationals. | To document a residence or stay authorization. |
Therefore, an EU citizen may have an NIE, but if they intend to reside in Spain for more than three months, they must apply for the registration certificate using Form EX-18.
Who must submit Form EX-18?
It must be submitted by a citizen of the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland who intends to reside in Spain for more than three months.
The application must be submitted in person, usually at the Immigration Office in the province where the person intends to stay or establish residence, or, failing that, at the relevant National Police station.
The most common situations are:
- EU citizens coming to work in Spain as employees.
- EU citizens who intend to pursue self-employment.
- EU students who intend to reside in Spain for more than three months.
- People with sufficient financial resources and health insurance.
- Family members of EU citizens who are also EU citizens.
Practical tip: if you are not a citizen of the EU, EEA or Switzerland, this is usually not the form you need. In that case, you may need a residence authorization, a TIE or another immigration form.
Requirements for obtaining the registration certificate
The requirements depend on the reason you wish to reside in Spain. The requirements differ for people who work, study or support themselves with their own resources.
Employee
You must provide evidence of an employment relationship, a contract, registration with the Social Security system or an equivalent status demonstrating that you work in Spain.
Self-employed worker
You must provide evidence of professional or business activity, registration as a self-employed worker or equivalent documentation.
Student
You must provide proof of enrolment, health insurance and sufficient resources to reside in Spain during your studies.
Person who is not working
You must provide evidence of sufficient financial resources and public or private health insurance.
If you are unsure which other official documents you may be asked for in Spain, you can also consult our guide to the criminal record certificate or our guide to the birth certificate in Spain.
Documents required for EX-18
The exact documents may vary depending on your situation, but you will usually need to prepare:
- Completed and signed Form EX-18.
- A valid, current passport or national identity document.
- Proof of your appointment, if required by the office.
- Proof of payment of fee 790, Code 012.
- Documents proving the basis for your residence: employment contract, Social Security registration, self-employed registration, proof of enrolment, health insurance, financial resources or family documents.
- Copies of the documents, if the office requests them along with the originals.
Important
Always bring the original documents and copies. Although some offices may be able to check information online, it is best to bring the complete application file to avoid missing your appointment.
How to fill in Form EX-18 step by step
Form EX-18 must be completed with clear details that match your identity document. Pay particular attention to your first names, surnames, nationality, address and reason for applying.
- Download Form EX-18 from an official source.
- Enter your personal details exactly as they appear in your passport or identity document.
- Provide your address in Spain and contact details.
- Select the basis for your application: employment, self-employment, studies, sufficient resources or another basis.
- Add the representative’s details only if applicable.
- Enter the place and date.
- Sign the form before submitting it.
- Check that no pages or required sections are missing.
Recommended official link
You can find information about the procedure on the National Police’s Government online portal: Certificate of Registration of a Citizen of the European Union.
Form 790, Code 012 fee for the registration certificate
To apply for a Certificate of Registration of a Citizen of the European Union, you must pay the relevant fee using Form 790, Code 012. On the National Police’s online portal, the fee for the registration certificate for EU residents is currently 12,00 €.
You must pay the fee before your appointment, unless the relevant office specifies a different procedure. Keep the proof of payment and bring a printed copy or the format specified by the office.
If you would like more information about this fee, you can also read our guide to the Form 790 012 police fee.
Where to submit Form EX-18
Applications are usually submitted to the Immigration Office in the province where you intend to live or, alternatively, to the relevant police station.
In practice, many provinces require you to book an appointment. The exact name of the procedure may vary in the appointment system, but it is usually listed as something like “Certificate of Registration of a Citizen of the European Union”, “Police – EU Certificates” or a similar service.
Common mistake
Do not book a TIE appointment if you are an EU citizen and need a registration certificate. Selecting the wrong procedure could mean losing your appointment.
When to apply
You must apply for the certificate if you are an EU citizen planning to live in Spain for more than three months. It is advisable to start the process within the first few months of your stay rather than wait until you need it for an urgent procedure.
In many cases, you need it to work, study, open a bank account, sign contracts or complete administrative procedures, so getting it as soon as possible can help avoid practical problems.
What information appears on the certificate
The registration certificate usually includes details such as your name, nationality, address in Spain, NIE and registration date. It is an official document confirming your registration as an EU citizen resident in Spain.
Check the document when you receive it to make sure all the details are correct. If you find an error in your name, surname, nationality or NIE, ask the office how to correct it.
Common mistakes when requesting a certificate
Confusing the NIE with the certificate
The NIE is a number; the certificate confirms your residence in Spain as an EU citizen.
Failing to prove you have sufficient resources
If you are not working, you will need to provide evidence of sufficient financial resources and health insurance.
Incorrect fee
You must use Form 790, Code 012, and select the correct fee.
Booking the wrong appointment
If you select the wrong procedure, the office may not see you.
Checklist before your appointment
- You have downloaded and completed Form EX-18.
- The form is signed.
- You have your valid passport or national identity document with you.
- You have booked an appointment, if required.
- You have paid fee 790 code 012.
- Bring the proof of payment.
- You have documents proving your employment, studies, financial resources, health insurance or family situation.
- You have the original documents and copies.
- You have checked that the procedure selected for your appointment is the right one.
Frequently asked questions about Form EX-18
What is Form EX-18?
It is the official form used to apply for the EU citizen registration certificate in Spain.
Who must apply for the EU registration certificate?
Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland who plan to live in Spain for more than three months.
Is the registration certificate the same as the NIE?
Not exactly. The NIE is an identification number, while the certificate confirms registration as an EU citizen residing in Spain and includes the NIE.
What fee must be paid for Form EX-18?
It is paid using Form 790 Code 012, selecting the option for the EU citizen registration certificate.
Where do you submit Form EX-18?
It is usually submitted to the Immigration Office in the province where you plan to live or to the relevant National Police station.
Can I apply if I do not work in Spain?
Yes, but you will need to prove that you have sufficient financial resources and health insurance, unless you qualify under another accepted category.
Does the registration certificate expire?
The certificate confirms your registration as an EU resident. If your details, address or circumstances change, you should check whether you need to report the change or update your information.
Conclusion
The EX-18 form is essential for EU citizens who want to live in Spain for more than three months. Before your appointment, make sure you bring the completed form, your identity document, proof that you have paid the 790-012 fee, and the documents showing why you are entitled to reside in Spain.
Preparing your application properly from the outset helps avoid missed appointments, requests for additional documents and unnecessary delays.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional legal advice or information provided by the competent authorities.
