RESIDENCIAS: An update

AT last some light is starting to filter through on the issue of residencias. The new legislation which effectively means that residencias are no longer needed has come into force and yesterday I was able to get some information on the subject. European Union nationals (non Spaniards) if they are planning to work or study here no longer need to apply for a residencia. Once they start working or studying their name will either be registered with the Ministry for Employment or Education and therefore they will be in the “system.” If they need to show that they are resident they can get a form from their council. The legislation was rather unclear as regards pensioners. However, I think I can now shed some light on the issue. People who receive a pension from another European Union state must apply for a residencia when they move to Spain. It appears those who already have a residencia and their name is already in the system do not need to renew it. However, all this information still has to be officially confirmed. Basically, the crux of this issue is being in the system. Once you are registered you don't really have to do anything else. Personally, I don't really think this legislation is practical. Without a residencia you are almost lost because carrying around your passport is an additional hassle. The legislation states that if you want a residencia you can apply for one eventhough you don't really need it. I think I will go with this option simply because it is impossible to fit your passport in your wallet and in Spain you do need some form of identification.