For EU citizens moving to Málaga, the process of getting your legal documents sorted is much like playing a friendly game of “tag,” but with a few key steps to keep in mind. First of all I DO recommend getting somebody official to help you, if you do not speak any Spanish! If you are up for the challenge, then here is the complete guide!
First Up: Gather Your Treasure Chest of Documents
Gather up your archive folder with ALL papers (birth certificates of all in the family, passports, marriage certificates, employment contract etc) If it is not in English, then you need an official translation. Make sure to have 2-3 copies of EACH document. For employment contracts, make sure your employer has signed ALL pages.
To request your residence in Málaga as an EU citizen, here’s exactly what you need to do and which documents to have at the ready, all explained in simple, fun terms!
Documents You’ll Need to Fill Out and Present:
- Application form EX-18
This is your magic ticket—download and fill it out carefully. It’s the formal request to get your EU residence card. 18-Certificado_residencia_comunitaria.pdf - Valid Passport or National ID
Bring both your original passport/ID and a photocopy of all pages. - Proof of Relationship (if applying as family member)
Marriage certificate, birth certificate, or proof of partnership—all translated to Spanish and apostilled. - EU Citizen’s Documents
Copy of the EU citizen’s valid passport/ID and their registration certificate in Spain (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión). - Proof of Residence
Show that you live in Málaga—rental contract, property deed, or utility bills will do. - Proof of Financial Means
Bank statements, employment contracts, or documents proving you can support yourself. - Health Insurance
Proof that you have public or private health insurance valid in Spain. - Police Clearance Certificate
A clean criminal record from your home country (or countries if applicable), translated and legalized. - Passport Photos
Recent passport-sized photos, usually two or three. - Proof of Fee Payment
There’s a small fee to apply—be sure you pay this before your appointment and keep the receipt.
How to Book Your Appointment in Málaga:
- Head to the official Spanish government booking portal at sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es/icpplus.
- Select your province (Málaga).
- Choose the service “Policía-Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión” (Police – EU citizen registration certificate).
- Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport or ID.
- Pick the police station most convenient for you.
- Choose an available appointment time.
- Confirm your booking and save the confirmation (you’ll need this for entry).
Tips for a Smooth Experience:
- Have all your documents ready, correctly translated, and apostilled if required before booking.
- Bring originals and copies to your appointment.
- When applying for residence in Málaga using the EX-18 form, you need to pay a processing fee with the Spanish tax form called Modelo 790 Código 012. This is an official fee payment form for immigration-related procedures, including the EU Registration Certificate application (EX-18).
- You can download and print Modelo 790 Código 012 from the official Spanish government website or at the immigration office. (Tasa790_012)
- Pay the fee (around €12, but the exact amount can vary) at most Spanish banks, savings banks, or credit cooperatives. You do not need an existing bank account with them; just present the printed form.
- Some offices also accept online payment through their official portals.
- Keep the payment receipt.
- Present it at your appointment at the Oficina de Extranjería or National Police along with the EX-18 form and other documents.
- Paying this fee is an essential step because processing your residency application officially requires this tax payment proof
- Arrive early and be polite—Spain loves a good smile!
- If you actually have all the neccesary documents, you should receive your little Residency Green Card printed straight away!
This process might sound like a puzzle, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll delight in calling Málaga home with your shiny new residency card in hand!
If you want to skip the stress, consider consulting an immigration expert who can guide you through every step hassle-free in English or your own language! If you do not speak any Spanish, I would definitely recommend this!
Keep It Going: Renewal
After five years, if you still love Málaga (and we hope you do), renew your residence permit for a permanent residence— same cheerful process, now with extra confidence. This keeps your legal adventure happily rolling.
Bonus Tip:
If you are doing the paper work yourself, be patient and don’t lose your temper! Say to yourself, it always takes three times – then when you do not get the right paper on your first try (because you are missing a translation or a stamp) Then you are alright – three times a charm!
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