no expiration
the European Citizen Certificate is issued indefinitely and is valid only when presented with a passport or ID
24
hours
processing time for the Green NIE after booking an appointment with the immigration office
>90
minimum period of residence in Spain that requires obtaining a Green NIE
days
Spanish Residency for EU Citizens and Holders of EU Residence Permits or Permanent Residency
A dream relocation to Spain for Europeans
“I have a European passport, so I can just move and live there!” — that’s what thousands of Europeans dreaming of sunny Spain believe. And technically, they’re right: EU citizens do have the legal right to live and work freely in any member state.
But the reality is more complicated. To truly enjoy a comfortable life in Spain—accessing social services, working legally, enrolling children in schools, and planning a long-term future—you must navigate numerous bureaucratic procedures and properly legalize your stay in the country.
A dream relocation to Spain for Europeans
“I have a European passport, so I can just move and live there!” — that’s what thousands of Europeans dreaming of sunny Spain believe. And technically, they’re right: EU citizens do have the legal right to live and work freely in any member state.
But the reality is more complicated. To truly enjoy a comfortable life in Spain—accessing social services, working legally, enrolling children in schools, and planning a long-term future—you must navigate numerous bureaucratic procedures and properly legalize your stay in the country.
The Myth vs. Reality of Moving to Spain as an EU Citizen
The Myth vs. Reality of Moving to Spain as an EU Citizen
Myth:
“I have an EU passport, so I’m already a Spanish resident.”
“I have an EU passport, so I’m already a Spanish resident.”
Reality:
EU citizenship gives you the right to live in Spain, but it doesn’t automatically make you a legal resident. To gain full resident status you must:
EU citizenship gives you the right to live in Spain, but it doesn’t automatically make you a legal resident. To gain full resident status you must:
- Register with the local municipality (empadronamiento)
- Obtain an NIE (foreign tax ID number)
- Get a Certificate of Registration as an EU citizen
- Enroll in the Spanish Social Security system
Myth:
“I can work anywhere without paperwork.”
“I can work anywhere without paperwork.”
Reality:
Legal employment requires:
Legal employment requires:
- A Spanish social security number
- Registration with the tax authorities
- A work contract under Spanish law
- Knowledge of local labor rules and taxation
Myth:
“My children can enroll in any school automatically.”
“My children can enroll in any school automatically.”
Reality:
Admission to public schools requires:
Admission to public schools requires:
- Proof of local residence
- Applications within specific deadlines
- Understanding of the priority points system
- Validation of previous academic records
Myth:
“Healthcare is free for all Europeans.”
“Healthcare is free for all Europeans.”
Reality:
Access to the public health system requires:
Access to the public health system requires:
- Registration with Social Security
- A health card (Tarjeta Sanitaria)
- Selection of a family doctor
- Understanding how the system works
Why Proper Legalization Matters
-
Tax Implications
Misunderstanding your tax status can lead to serious financial issues:- Double taxation in your home country and in Spain
- Penalties for late tax filings
- Loss of eligibility for tax deductions and benefits
- Problems with social security payments
-
Social Benefits
Without correct registration you lose access to:- Free public healthcare
- Unemployment benefits
- Family allowances
- Pension contributions
- Education subsidies
-
Long-Term Planning
An unregistered status limits:- Access to mortgages
- Business opportunities
- Eligibility for Spanish citizenship
- Full integration into Spanish society
Who We Help
EU Citizens with Passports
Full citizens of European Union countries, including:
- Germans, French, Italians
- Poles, Czechs, Hungarians
- Dutch, Belgians, Austrians
- All other citizens of the 27 EU countries
Holders of permanent residence (PR) in EU countries
People with permanent residence in European countries:
- Long-term residents in Germany, France, Italy
- Holders of “Blue Cards” and similar statuses
- Individuals with the right to permanent residence
Holders of temporary residence permits (residency visas) in EU countries
Temporary residents of European countries:
- Students at European universities
- Workers with temporary permits
- Families of EU citizens
- Holders of various types of long-term visas
Who We Help
EU Citizens with Passports
Full citizens of European Union countries, including:
- Germans, French, Italians
- Poles, Czechs, Hungarians
- Dutch, Belgians, Austrians
- All other citizens of the 27 EU countries
Holders of permanent residence (PR) in EU countries
People with permanent residence in European countries:
- Long-term residents in Germany, France, Italy
- Holders of “Blue Cards” and similar statuses
- Individuals with the right to permanent residence
Holders of temporary residence permits (residency visas) in EU countries
Temporary residents of European countries:
- Students at European universities
- Workers with temporary permits
- Families of EU citizens
- Holders of various types of long-term visas
Our Comprehensive Legalization Program
Stage 1: Documents & Registration
Obtaining NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero)
- Schedule an appointment at the police station or consulate
- Prepare the document package
- Support throughout the obtaining procedure
- Assist with translations and notarizations
- Find suitable housing for registration
- Prepare documents for the municipality
- Accompany the procedure at the town hall
- Obtain the registration certificate
- Prepare documents for obtaining the certificate
- Schedule an appointment at the Oficina de Extranjeros
- Support the entire application process
- Receive the official EU resident status document
Stage 2: Digital Documents and Technology
Certificado Digital (Digital Certificate)
- Assist in obtaining a digital signature
- Set up access to government portals
- Provide training on using e-services
- Offer technical support
- Register in the government identification system
- Set up access via mobile app
- Connect to all government services
- Provide guidance on usage
Stage 3: Social Security and Healthcare
Número de Afiliación a la Seguridad Social
- Register in the social security system
- Obtain a social security number
- Set up contributions (for employees and self-employed)
- Advise on rights and obligations
- Register at a health center
- Help select a family doctor
- Obtain the health card
- Explain how the Spanish healthcare system works
- Analyze additional insurance needs
- Select optimal private insurance plans
- Assist in obtaining policies
- Advise on usage
Stage 4: Financial Services and Banking
Opening Bank Accounts
- Analyze offers from various banks
- Prepare documents for account opening
- Accompany the process at the bank
- Set up online banking and cards
- Analyze tax status
- Plan optimal tax strategy
- Assist with the first tax return
- Set up an income and expense tracking system
Stage 5: Education and Family
School Enrollment
- Research the best schools in the chosen area
- Prepare documents for enrollment
- Assist with the application process
- Provide guidance on adaptation programs
- Explain differences between school types
- Help select the best option
- Support the enrollment process
- Provide adaptation support
- Select language courses for the whole family
- Find sports clubs and extracurricular activities
- Advise on university education
- Assist with professional retraining
Stage 6: Real Estate and Housing
Rental Housing
- Research the real estate market in desired areas
- Select options according to budget and criteria
- Verify legal cleanliness of transactions
- Support negotiations and contract signing
- Advise on the purchase procedure
- Assist in obtaining a mortgage
- Support the transaction at a notary
- Help register property ownership
- Connect electricity, gas, and water
- Set up internet and TV
- Arrange home insurance
- Advise on property management
Stage 7: Taxes and Reporting
Tax Registration
- Register with the Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria)
- Obtain tax numbers and certificates
- Set up access to the online portal
- Advise on tax obligations
- Gather necessary documents
- Complete the income declaration
- Submit documents within deadlines
- Advise on further obligations
- Track income and expenses
- Plan tax payments
- Use available deductions and benefits
- Prepare annual reports
Stage 8: Employment and Business
Job Search
- Advise on the Spanish labor market
- Help adapt resumes to local standards
- Connect to professional networks
- Advise on labor legislation
- Analyze business opportunities
- Help choose the optimal business form
- Register a company or self-employed status
- Advise on entrepreneur taxation
- Register as a self-employed entrepreneur
- Set up social security contributions
- Advise on accounting and reporting
- Support client base development and marketing
Our Comprehensive Legalization Program
Stage 1: Documents & Registration
Obtaining NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero)
- Schedule an appointment at the police station or consulate
- Prepare the document package
- Support throughout the obtaining procedure
- Assist with translations and notarizations
- Find suitable housing for registration
- Prepare documents for the municipality
- Accompany the procedure at the town hall
- Obtain the registration certificate
- Prepare documents for obtaining the certificate
- Schedule an appointment at the Oficina de Extranjeros
- Support the entire application process
- Receive the official EU resident status document
Stage 2: Digital Documents and Technology
Certificado Digital (Digital Certificate)
- Assist in obtaining a digital signature
- Set up access to government portals
- Provide training on using e-services
- Offer technical support
- Register in the government identification system
- Set up access via mobile app
- Connect to all government services
- Provide guidance on usage
Stage 3: Social Security and Healthcare
Número de Afiliación a la Seguridad Social
- Register in the social security system
- Obtain a social security number
- Set up contributions (for employees and self-employed)
- Advise on rights and obligations
- Register at a health center
- Help select a family doctor
- Obtain the health card
- Explain how the Spanish healthcare system works
- Analyze additional insurance needs
- Select optimal private insurance plans
- Assist in obtaining policies
- Advise on usage
Stage 4: Financial Services and Banking
Opening Bank Accounts
- Analyze offers from various banks
- Prepare documents for account opening
- Accompany the process at the bank
- Set up online banking and cards
- Analyze tax status
- Plan optimal tax strategy
- Assist with the first tax return
- Set up an income and expense tracking system
Stage 5: Education and Family
School Enrollment
- Research the best schools in the chosen area
- Prepare documents for enrollment
- Assist with the application process
- Provide guidance on adaptation programs
- Explain differences between school types
- Help select the best option
- Support the enrollment process
- Provide adaptation support
- Select language courses for the whole family
- Find sports clubs and extracurricular activities
- Advise on university education
- Assist with professional retraining
Stage 6: Real Estate and Housing
Rental Housing
- Research the real estate market in desired areas
- Select options according to budget and criteria
- Verify legal cleanliness of transactions
- Support negotiations and contract signing
- Advise on the purchase procedure
- Assist in obtaining a mortgage
- Support the transaction at a notary
- Help register property ownership
- Connect electricity, gas, and water
- Set up internet and TV
- Arrange home insurance
- Advise on property management
Stage 7: Taxes and Reporting
Tax Registration
- Register with the Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria)
- Obtain tax numbers and certificates
- Set up access to the online portal
- Advise on tax obligations
- Gather necessary documents
- Complete the income declaration
- Submit documents within deadlines
- Advise on further obligations
- Track income and expenses
- Plan tax payments
- Use available deductions and benefits
- Prepare annual reports
Stage 8: Employment and Business
Job Search
- Advise on the Spanish labor market
- Help adapt resumes to local standards
- Connect to professional networks
- Advise on labor legislation
- Analyze business opportunities
- Help choose the optimal business form
- Register a company or self-employed status
- Advise on entrepreneur taxation
- Register as a self-employed entrepreneur
- Set up social security contributions
- Advise on accounting and reporting
- Support client base development and marketing
Path to Spanish Citizenship
Benefits of Dual Citizenship
Obtaining a Spanish passport opens up additional opportunities:
- Full voting rights in Spain
- Participation in municipal politics
- Access to public services
- Additional protection abroad
- Ability to pass citizenship to your children
Timeframes for Obtaining Citizenship
For EU citizens, the general rules apply:
- 10 years of continuous legal residence
- 2 years for citizens of Latin American countries, the Philippines, Andorra, Equatorial Guinea
- 1 year for special cases (marriage to a Spaniard, birth in Spain)
Requirements for Citizenship
- Continuous legal residence in Spain
- No serious criminal record
- Integration into Spanish society
- Basic knowledge of Spanish language and culture
- Financial independence
Our Assistance in Obtaining Citizenship
- Track residence time from day one
- Advise on requirements at every stage
- Prepare documents for application submission
- Help prepare for exams
- Support throughout the entire process
Quality Guarantees
-
Our Commitments
- Transparent processes — you always know the current stage of your case
- Fixed deadlines — clear timelines for each service
- High-quality results — all documents are correctly prepared the first time
- Ongoing support — consultations and assistance do not end after receiving documents
-
What Sets Us Apart
- 5+ years of experience working with European relocators
- Team of lawyers and consultants in different regions of Spain
- Connections with government agencies to expedite procedures
- Individual approach to each family and situation
Гарантии качества
-
Our Commitments
- Transparent processes — you always know the current stage of your case
- Fixed deadlines — clear timelines for each service
- High-quality results — all documents are correctly prepared the first time
- Ongoing support — consultations and assistance do not end after receiving documents
-
What Sets Us Apart
- 5+ years of experience working with European relocators
- Team of lawyers and consultants in different regions of Spain
- Connections with government agencies to expedite procedures
- Individual approach to each family and situation
Start Your Spanish Dream Today
Don’t let bureaucracy stand in the way of your dream life in Spain! Thousands of European families are already enjoying a full life in sunny Spain thanks to our support. They receive quality education for their children, access excellent healthcare, grow their businesses and careers, and plan for Spanish citizenship.
Don’t let bureaucracy stand in the way of your dream life in Spain! Thousands of European families are already enjoying a full life in sunny Spain thanks to our support. They receive quality education for their children, access excellent healthcare, grow their businesses and careers, and plan for Spanish citizenship.
Your turn!
Answer 10 questions and get a personalized relocation plan: visa, budget, steps.
Answer 10 questions and get a personalized relocation plan: visa, budget, steps.
Your Spanish dream is closer than it seems. Let us make it a reality!
For citizens of the European Union* the immigration process is much simpler. EU citizens can enter Spain freely, without prior formalities, and obtain a special certificate (Green NIE/European Certificate) to live, study, and work.
* includes Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland
The Green NIE is a small green paper card with your NIE number (foreigner identification number). This certificate is a simple confirmation that an EU citizen is registered in the Central Registry of Foreigners in Spain.
The main reasons for obtaining Green NIE:
Pursuing education
Employment: both as an employee or as a self-employed Autonomo
What do you need to obtain Green NIE?
A few requirements separate you from obtaining a European certificate: permanent housing, medical insurance, and sufficient funds in the account.
A few requirements separate you from obtaining a European certificate: permanent housing, medical insurance, and sufficient funds in the account.
Register at the municipality to obtain an Empadronamiento document
Registration at your place of residence in the local municipality
Finding accommodation
If you plan on renting, it's important to sign a long-term contract: at least 11 months
Collect financial and medical documents
Required minimum in the account: €7,300 for one adult + €5,475 for each additional family member
How Does the Process Work?
Questionnaire
Fill out the questionnaire to realistically assess your prospects and chances of moving to Spain this year. It will take no more than 3 minutes.
1
Personal Plan and Agreement
We'll formalize agreements before beginning to work together.
3
Arrival in Spain with a Schengen Visa
If you choose to submit documents upon your arrival in Spain, entering the country legally is adequate. It is recommended to have a Spanish entry stamp on your passport.
6
Document Submission
Once your application is submitted, you can legally stay in Spain, even if the validity of your tourist visa has expired.
7
Approval Waiting
We will do everything to ensure you are ready by the start of your studies.
8
Resident Card
Congratulations, it's time to relax and explore your new home. The residency card, which opens countless opportunities in your new European life, will be in your hands within a month after approval.
9
Adjusting to Life in Spain
Dreamlife stays in touch even after residency approval. It's important to us that new students know they are not alone. We are just a few clicks away– ready to help you from our office in Barcelona.
10
Payment
You have the option to choose a convenient method: make a full pre-payment or split the payment into two equal parts. If new needs arise during the process, such as assistance in finding accommodation, we will include additional services in the final payment.
4
Document Preparation and Processing
We take a comprehensive approach to our work: from collecting primary documents to obtaining the residence permit (VNZ) and its extension. We will guide you step-by-step in assembling the necessary document package for the student visa.
5
Consultation
Our immigration experts will carefully study your case and offer individual advice, including recommendations on how to increase your chances of achieving your desired outcome.
2
Processing Costs
At DreamLife, you can choose from pre-packaged plans tailored for you:
Dream Visa — visa or residence permit processing only
Dream Life — full relocation package
You can also order individual services separately.
Fill out the form to receive your personalized offer.
Dream Visa — visa or residence permit processing only
Dream Life — full relocation package
You can also order individual services separately.
Fill out the form to receive your personalized offer.
Processing Costs
At DreamLife, you can choose from pre-packaged plans tailored for you:
Dream Visa — visa or residence permit processing only
Dream Life — full relocation package
You can also order individual services separately.
Fill out the form to receive your personalized offer.
Dream Visa — visa or residence permit processing only
Dream Life — full relocation package
You can also order individual services separately.
Fill out the form to receive your personalized offer.
Processing Costs
At DreamLife, you can choose from pre-packaged plans tailored for you:
Dream Visa — visa or residence permit processing only
Dream Life — full relocation package
You can also order individual services separately.
Fill out the form to receive your personalized offer.
Dream Visa — visa or residence permit processing only
Dream Life — full relocation package
You can also order individual services separately.
Fill out the form to receive your personalized offer.
Our team
Aleksandra Scherstyannikova
Luciana Mercedes Torrents
Inna Kornienko
Senior Account Manager
Immigration Lawyer
Account Manager
Our team
Aleksandra Scherstyannikova
Luciana Mercedes Torrents
Inna Kornienko
Residency Manager
Immigration Lawyer
Account Manager
F.A.Q.
These are questions we've heard more than a few times. That's why we've answered them in advance for you.
We have a tradition: start with a free online call. From our office in Barcelona, we'll discuss your case and offer a tailored solution. Each case is unique, so our immigration experts will develop the best offer for you and your family.
If the case is urgent, let us know: we'll expedite and coordinate all the details within 24 hours.
If the case is urgent, let us know: we'll expedite and coordinate all the details within 24 hours.
We offer you the flexibility to choose:
- Full one-time payment
- 50% upfront, 50% later
The first part of the payment must be made upon agreeing on the service package; the rest after the completion of the work. If you need any extra services while we’re working together, such as assistance with opening a bank account or finding accommodation, these can easily be included in the final payment.
- Full one-time payment
- 50% upfront, 50% later
The first part of the payment must be made upon agreeing on the service package; the rest after the completion of the work. If you need any extra services while we’re working together, such as assistance with opening a bank account or finding accommodation, these can easily be included in the final payment.
We accept all forms of payment, including debit and credit cards, as well as bank transfers and PayPal.
It's possible. After the free consultation, however, you may realize that you need help with something specific.
To start, we recommend choosing one service, and adding additional ones as needed. We adapt our expertise to your specific case. At each stage, we will discuss, in advance, what assistance is needed. We prioritize flexibility and supporting you with your individual case, not just within the boundaries of a specific service package.
To start, we recommend choosing one service, and adding additional ones as needed. We adapt our expertise to your specific case. At each stage, we will discuss, in advance, what assistance is needed. We prioritize flexibility and supporting you with your individual case, not just within the boundaries of a specific service package.
Of course! Share your story with the team in messages or during the consultation, and we will help you find the best solution. Even if we can't help directly, we will be able to point you in the right direction. Sometimes, that's all you need.
Our commercial proposals contain a detailed description of each service. This way, you know exactly what to expect. We also share the full terms of our agreements with clients in advance — it's important for you to review them before we start working.
- International expertise and local experience
Our team has all the resources to make the move to Spain hassle-free and more comfortable. Each of us has moved at some point, so we understand all the challenges, risks, and concerns.
Dreamlife's immigration experts are familiar with the current context of Spanish bureaucracy and know how to work with documents and accounts efficiently. Our accumulated experience allows us to avoid mistakes and effectively help with each specific case.
- Individual approach
Knowing general information is not enough; it's more important to apply expertise based on unique needs and requests. We offer individual solutions — that's our value.
- Comprehensive approach and additional services
Relocation doesn't end with obtaining the necessary residency. Adapting to your new life has only begun, and we are here to help when you don't know who to turn to. Enrolling a child in school, finding the right doctor, resolving disputes with the landlord, and hundreds of other important details determine your comfort in a new country– we are here to help.
Our team has all the resources to make the move to Spain hassle-free and more comfortable. Each of us has moved at some point, so we understand all the challenges, risks, and concerns.
Dreamlife's immigration experts are familiar with the current context of Spanish bureaucracy and know how to work with documents and accounts efficiently. Our accumulated experience allows us to avoid mistakes and effectively help with each specific case.
- Individual approach
Knowing general information is not enough; it's more important to apply expertise based on unique needs and requests. We offer individual solutions — that's our value.
- Comprehensive approach and additional services
Relocation doesn't end with obtaining the necessary residency. Adapting to your new life has only begun, and we are here to help when you don't know who to turn to. Enrolling a child in school, finding the right doctor, resolving disputes with the landlord, and hundreds of other important details determine your comfort in a new country– we are here to help.