Tenant Registration in Spain

Registering at the home where you live is the procedure that allows your habitual residence to be recorded with the town hall. For tenants in Spain, registering (empadronamiento) in rented housing makes it easier to access municipal services, school enrollment and residency certificates; it also serves as proof of address for administrative procedures. In this practical guide we explain, in clear language, which documents town halls usually request, common deadlines and how to act if the landlord does not cooperate. It includes concrete steps to apply, tips for gathering evidence and official links to consult applicable regulations in Spain. You do not need to be a legal expert: you will find sample forms, recommendations for keeping receipts and options in case of dispute. Follow the steps and at the end you will find frequently asked questions and official resources.

What is empadronamiento?

The municipal register (padrón) is the administrative record where people who habitually reside in a municipality are listed. Being registered helps demonstrate address and facilitates procedures such as school enrollment, local health care and administrative requests.

Requirements and documents

• National identity document (DNI) or NIE of the applicant.
• Rental contract or receipts proving payment and the tenancy relationship.
• The town hall's empadronamiento form completed.
• In some municipalities, a declaration from the property owner or a certificate of cohabitation.

Deadlines and submission

Deadlines for registration vary by town hall; in many cases it can be done immediately, in person or by appointment, and some councils allow online procedures.

• In-person application with an appointment: check the town hall website to book a time slot.
• Online procedure: upload clear scans of the DNI/NIE and the contract.
• Empadronamiento certificate: it is usually issued the same day or within a few working days.

If the landlord refuses or there are discrepancies

If the landlord does not cooperate or disputes your residence, gather as much documentation as possible: contract, payment receipts, mail addressed to you at the home and witnesses if applicable. Law 29/1994 and civil regulations include provisions on obligations and evidence in leases.^[1] If you need to assert rights before a civil court, the appropriate venue is the Court of First Instance with jurisdiction over the address.^[2]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register if I live in rented housing?

Yes. If you habitually reside in the home you can register in the municipal register even if it is rented, provided you present the documentation requested by your town hall.

What if the landlord refuses to sign a cohabitation document?

Submit other proof of residence (receipts, bills, mail) and request information from the town hall; if appropriate, keep copies and seek legal resources.

Can I register minors who live with me?

Yes. Minors are usually registered at the address of their habitual residence, presenting the parents' DNI/NIE and family book or birth certificate as required by the town hall.

How to do it

1. Gather documents: DNI/NIE, rental contract, receipts and the town hall form.
2. Check the town hall website for requirements and whether an appointment is needed.
3. Submit the application in person or electronically according to local instructions.
4. Request and keep the empadronamiento certificate.
5. If rejected, collect evidence and seek administrative or legal advice.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] BOE - Consolidated text of Law 29/1994
• [2] Ministry of Justice - Information and procedures
• [3] Judicial Branch - Guide to courts

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1. [1] BOE - Consolidated text of Law 29/1994
2. [2] Ministry of Justice - Information and procedures