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Immigration & residence in Spain
Spain's residence permits are managed by the Oficina de Extranjería. Common routes include the non-lucrative visa, work visa, student visa, and family reunification.
Immigration offices in Spain
Extranjería (Oficina de Extranjeros): NIE, TIE, residence applications. Agencia Tributaria: Tax ID for foreigners, returns.
Residence steps to prioritise
Get your NIE / TIE: The NIE is your unique foreigner number. EU citizens get a green certificate; non-EU get a TIE card. Book a cita previa — On sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es — choose 'Asignación NIE' or 'Toma de huellas'. Appointments are scarce; try early morning. Pay the tax (modelo 790) — Form 790 code 012, ~12 €. Pay at any bank or online. Attend with documents — Passport + copy, completed EX-15 (NIE) or EX-17 (TIE), photos, proof of reason (work contract, study, family). Empadronamiento: Town-hall address registration. Required for healthcare card, school enrollment, residence renewals. Book at your ayuntamiento — Each town has its own portal — search '[city] empadronamiento cita'. Free. Bring proof of address — Rental contract, utility bill, or owner's authorization. If you live with someone, they must come and sign. Receive certificado de empadronamiento — Same day or by post. Renew every 2 years for non-EU citizens. Healthcare (Tarjeta Sanitaria): Universal public healthcare for residents. Free at point of use; small co-pay on prescriptions. Get a social security number — Apply at TGSS with passport + NIE + work contract or proof of residence. Register at your health center — Go to your nearest Centro de Salud with padrón, social-security number, NIE. Without contributions — If you have no work history, request 'asistencia sanitaria a personas sin recursos' — covers you once empadronado.
Documents to keep ready
Prepare your passport, visa or residence card, birth and marriage certificates, address proof, health-insurance proof, job or study documents, and passport photos. In Spain, officials may ask for originals, copies and certified translations.
If a decision is delayed or refused
Ask Extranjería (Oficina de Extranjeros) for written confirmation that your application is pending. If you receive a refusal, read the appeal deadline immediately and contact a legal-aid organisation or migrant support office in Spain.
Documents checklist
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Proof of purpose (job/study/family)
- Health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds
Frequently asked questions
Which office should I contact first in Spain?
Start with Extranjería (Oficina de Extranjeros). For broader newcomer help, also check Extranjería (Oficina de Extranjeros), Ayuntamiento (Padrón), Seguridad Social (TGSS).
What language will offices use in Spain?
The main administrative language is Spanish. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
How long does a residence permit take in Spain?
Processing times vary from a few weeks to several months depending on the permit type and completeness of your documents.
Can I work while waiting for my permit?
In many cases yes, especially if you already hold a work-based permit. Rules differ by category — check with the migration authority before starting work.
What if my application is refused?
You almost always have the right to appeal. Free legal counselling is available through NGOs and, in some cases, publicly funded lawyers.
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