Padron Applications in Spain
The Padrón Municipal is the local register of people living in a town or city in Spain. Registering, known as empadronamiento, records your address with the town hall (Ayuntamiento).
You may need a Padrón certificate when applying for residency documents, registering for local services, enrolling children in school or completing other administrative procedures.
Who needs to register?
Anyone living in Spain should register with the municipality where they usually live, regardless of nationality or immigration status.
If you move to another municipality, you should register at your new address.
What documents do you need?
Requirements vary between town halls, but you will generally need:
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A valid passport or national identity document.
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Proof of address, such as a property deed, rental contract or recent utility bill.
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A completed Padrón application form.
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Permission and supporting documents from the property owner or main tenant, if required.
Families registering together may need to provide additional identification or documents for children.
How to apply
Contact your local town hall
Check your Ayuntamiento website for the application process and whether you need an appointment. Some municipalities offer online applications or renewals.
Submit your documents
Apply online, where available, or attend the relevant municipal office with your paperwork.
Request your certificate
Once registered, you can request a volante de empadronamiento or a certificado de empadronamiento, depending on what the organisation requesting it requires.
Do you need to renew your Padrón?
You should update your registration whenever you change address. Certain non-EU foreign residents without long-term residence status must renew their registration every two years to avoid cancellation. Other residents may need to confirm their details when requested by the town hall.
Spain Simplified can arrange your paperwork and attend your appointment with you.