Padrón (empadronamiento) is the process of registering in the Padrón Municipal de Habitantes, a municipal registry that records the residence of individuals within a municipality in Spain. This procedure is mandatory for all individuals residing in Spain, regardless of nationality or administrative status.

What is the purpose of registration?

Being registered in the Padrón allows individuals to access a variety of rights and public services, such as:

• Applying for a health card and accessing the public healthcare system.
• Enrolling children in educational institutions.
• Processing residence or social integration permits.
• Requesting social benefits or municipal subsidies.
• Proving the length of residence in Spain (important for nationality or social integration purposes).
• Registering with the Public Employment Service (SEPE).

Who can register?

Anyone who resides in Spain can register, including:

• Foreign citizens with legal residence.
• Individuals in an irregular situation who need to prove their stay in the country.

It is not necessary to have a rental contract or be the owner of the residence. Registration can be done as an “occupant without title” or with an authorization signed by the property owner.

Requirements for registration­

The required documents may vary depending on the municipality, but typically include:

• Valid identification (passport, NIE, or TIE).
• Proof of residence: rental agreement, property deed, or authorization from the owner along with a copy of their ID.
• In some cases, a signed padrón form by all adult residents of the household.

The procedure is generally carried out at the local town hall or municipal office, and in many cases, a prior appointment is necessary.

Does the padrón registration expire?

For non-EU foreigners without legal residence, the registration is valid for two years, after which it must be renewed to remain active.
Otherwise, the municipality may cancel the registration due to “padrón expiration.”

Why is it important to register if you are a foreigner?

Padrón registration is essential for several immigration-related procedures, such as:

• Applications for social or labor integration (arraigo).
• Obtaining Spanish nationality.
• Renewal of residence permits.
• Proving continuous stay in Spain.

Legal Assistance for Padrón Registration – Landing in Spain

At Landing in Spain, we provide professional assistance to help you complete your padrón registration correctly, quickly, and in compliance with current regulations. We assist with:

• Registration if you do not have a rental contract.
• Cases where your registration has been rejected by the municipality.
• Obtaining an urgent padrón certificate for immigration procedures.
• Clarifying any doubts regarding how to keep your registration active.

📩 Contact us and we will assist you in registering without errors or delays.