Paperwork
What Is the Padrón and Why Do You Need It?
The padrón is the first piece of paperwork most newcomers do, and one of the easiest. Here’s what it is, why it matters and how to register.
By
How to Live in Spain
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2 min read
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Empadronamiento means registering your address on the padrón, your town hall’s population register. Everyone who lives in Spain should do it. It’s free, and it’s usually done on the spot.
Why it matters
Your padrón certificate is proof of where you live, and other offices ask for it constantly: for your TIE or EU registration certificate, your health card, school places and local services. It’s usually the first thing to do after you arrive, because so much else depends on it.
How to register
Every ayuntamiento runs its own padrón, so find your town hall’s booking page. Bring your passport, TIE or EU ID card, and your rental contract or property deeds. If you’re not on the contract, bring a signed authorisation from the owner or main tenant with a copy of their ID. Fill in the hoja padronal, and add children on the same form with their passports and birth certificates.
Certificates and renewals
Ask for a volante or certificado de empadronamiento at the appointment. Many offices want one issued in the last three months, so you’ll request new ones over time. Non-EU residents without long-term residence must renew their registration every two years.
See every step in our Empadronamiento checklist.
Everyone living in Spain should register
It’s free and usually done the same day
Bring ID and your rental contract or deeds
Offices often want a certificate under three months old
Non-EU residents renew every two years
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