Lanzarote Relocation

Every municipality (much like a county in the UK) holds a “padron” at its Ayuntamiento (Town Hall). This is a list of the municipalities occupants, much like an electoral roll.

Why do I need one?
If you are buying a car, gettng finance, or having certain other legal things carried out, this is a document that will certainly help you. Many schools also give priority to children that have been registered… Add to that the heavily discounted travel available within Spain too.

Is it law to have one?
No, it isn’t compulsory. We’ve already listed the benefits to you, as above… but there are also benefits to the municipality. They receive funding based on the number of people living in the area. This is to provide essential services such as health clinics, post office services and staff, street cleaning and maintenance, as well as policing. Many foreign residents do not bother to register, and this can have a real impact in the area’s funding.

How do I get one?

To be included on the Empadronamiento, visit your local Ayuntamiento, with the following documents:

• Proof of ID – Passport
• Proof of address – rental contract or utility bill
• A completed registration form

The turnaround for this was around three weeks for us when we first did it – and about 15 minutes when we changed our address a couple of years later, but this may vary between Ayuntamientos. The cost was negligible too – just the price of a stamp.

You may also enjoy reading the following:

1. Social Security in Lanzarote The Spanish social security system is very similar to that in the UK. You pay monthly, either as a self-employed person, or your Employer will...
2. Social Security in Lanzarote While Spanish social security receives significant State support, it is essentially financed by the contributions made by employers and workers. Monthly dues are paid in...
3. Applying for your Residencia Please note that in July 2011… the form for this changed – click the New Residencia Form for more information In the Spring of 2007,...
4. Claiming benefits in Lanzarote The Foreign Commonwealth Office gives advice on what benefits you can claim as a UK National in Lanzarote… and as a Irish National in Lanzarote....