Do you want to become a resident in Spain? In this article, we explain what residency entails, the difference between EU/EEA citizens and non-EU/EEA citizens, and the myths surrounding the “green” and “white” NIE.

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What Is Residency?

Residency means you are officially registered as a resident of Spain. This can affect your tax status, access to social services, and other legal rights and obligations.

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Difference Between EU/EEA Citizens and Non-EU/EEA Citizens

EU/EEA Citizens:

As a citizen of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), you have the right to live and work in Spain without a visa. If you stay in Spain for more than 90 days, you are required to register with the authorities and obtain a Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión.

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Non-EU/EEA Citizens:

If you come from outside the EU/EEA, you need to apply for a residence permit to legally stay in Spain. This process is generally more complex and often requires obtaining a visa and additional documentation.

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The Myth of the “Green” and “White” NIE

There is often talk of a “green NIE” and a “white NIE”, but in reality, this distinction does not exist. The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a unique identification number for foreigners in Spain. The number itself is always in the same format, regardless of the document on which it appears.

• Green Document:
  EU/EEA citizens who register as residents receive a green certificate, officially called the Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión. This is a green A4 document or a green card that includes your NIE number.
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• White Document:
  The white document refers to the NIE Certificate, a white A4 paper issued to non-residents. This certificate contains your NIE number and is intended for temporary or specific transactions.

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The difference between a “green” and “white” NIE lies not in the NIE number itself but in the type of certificate and your residency status. Understanding how residency and the NIE number work is essential for legal stay and handling official matters in Spain. Make sure to follow the correct procedures to ensure a smooth stay in Spain.

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