Spain: Amends Residency Rules for EU Citizens

Spain has amended its residency rules for EU citizens, making it more difficult for foreigners to access Spain’s Social Security system. The amended act will recognize the right of access to healthcare only for those foreigners with legal residence in Spain.

Under Royal Decree 240/2007, European citizens wishing to stay in Spain for more than three months must obtain a residence permit, which requires proof of work status or self-employment in Spain; sufficient economic resources for self and family; proof of enrollment at a public or private school (for students); proof of full health insurance in Spain; proof of status as a relative of a European citizen who meets one of the three requirements set out above.