01 Dec Is it mandatory to register at your rental apartment?
When moving into a rental apartment in Barcelona, many people wonder whether it’s necessary to register (to do the empadronamiento or padrón) with the local municipality. Although not everyone sees it as a mandatory step, registering is actually a legal obligation and comes with a series of benefits that shouldn’t be overlooked. At Barcelona Flat Hunter, we clarify the most common doubts about registering in a rental apartment.
Spanish law states that all individuals residing in a municipality must be registered in the municipal census. According to the Official State Bulletin, “everyone living in Spain is required to register in the census of the municipality where they habitually reside.” This includes those who move into a rental apartment. In fact, registration is necessary to access a range of services and rights, such as school enrollment, healthcare, and generally, access to social assistance.
What do you need to register?
If you’re renting an apartment, the registration process is simple. You’ll need to present your ID card, passport, or residence permit (as applicable), and your rental contract. It’s important that the contract has a minimum duration of six months, or a signed extension if it’s shorter. With these documents, you can complete the process without any issues.
Additionally, if you live with other people, you’ll need to provide their documentation, or the family’s official documents in the case of a family unit. Afterwards, the city council will issue a registration certificate, a document useful for various administrative procedures.
Benefits of registering
Registering offers many advantages. Besides giving you access to social assistance, healthcare services, and educational rights, the census is crucial for procedures like renewing your ID or driver’s license. It’s also necessary to vote in municipal elections, allowing you to actively participate in your local civic life.
What happens if you don’t register?
Failing to register in the municipality where you live can lead to penalties. In some cases, it’s considered “false registration,” which can result in fines. You might also face difficulties accessing the services mentioned earlier, as many procedures depend on where you’re officially registered.
Therefore, if you move into a rental apartment in Barcelona, make sure to register with the relevant municipality.
