A few weeks’ stay: do I need a NIE?
Only when something you do requires it: buying, working, opening certain accounts. A holiday by itself does not.
Queries
Queries from EU, EEA and Swiss passport holders
Registration, the green certificate, work and family: short answers for European citizens settling in the province.
Moving to Tarragona for good: which form?
The EX-18. It records you as a European resident and comes as a green certificate that shows your NIE. The EX-15 is for short stays and for non-residents.
How do I show that I can live here?
With an employment contract or employer’s letter, a self-employment registration or, when not working, proof of means and health insurance. Students add their enrolment.
My partner is not European. Can we register together?
Not on one form: your partner applies separately, on the EX-19 for the family card, which the Delegación del Gobierno deals with at its office on Avenida Estanislau Figueras.
Do Europeans in Salou have a local station?
No. The Policía Nacional directory lists Tarragona, Reus and Tortosa only, and by comarca, according to the Delegación del Gobierno, Salou residents go to Plaça d’Orleans.
My certificate shows an old address. Does it matter?
Have it updated after a move, so it agrees with your padró and with the address you give the administration.
Am I allowed to work before the certificate is issued?
As a European you may work in Spain. In practice the employer’s Social Security registration hinges on your number, so book the appointment early.
Norwegian or Swiss: same rules as the EU?
Yes. Norwegians, Icelanders, Liechtensteiners and the Swiss are treated as EU citizens in these procedures.