Does your residencia ever run out?

Question

I know your meant to re-new it, when it runs out (every 5 years?) what if you havnt renewed it for a few years, can you still go and get one? or ddo you have to start from the begining again?

Answer 1

Years ago you could have been fined quite heavily for not renewing your residencia if you were still living in Spain. However, in March the residencia was abolished, now you will have to get a certificate instead. In my opinion you're still going to have to carry some i.d so I think the residencia was better, at least it fits in your purse or wallet and is rigid, the new certificate will I understand be in paper form. Therefore not very practical for carrying around for years without getting very tatty.

Time will tell, we will see.

Answer 2

The requirement for foreigners in Spain to have residencia is being abolished as of 28th March, we are still required to register on the padron and now at a foreigners office or Policia Nacional office, there's details in the CBN newslink

Answer 3

as from march 23rd this year you do not need residencia any more the new system is you go to the town hall and register and you get a piece of paper with all your details on ie nie number etc