Move to Torrevieja

Padrón Registration in Torrevieja

Register on the municipal census (empadronamiento) to unlock healthcare, school enrolment, and residency rights.

Why the padrón matters
The padrón (empadronamiento) is Spain's municipal census. Registering at your address in Torrevieja is required for: SIP health card (public healthcare), school enrolment, applying for residency certificate, accessing local government services, proving residency for tax purposes, and getting some bank accounts.

Where to go

Register at the Oficina de Atención al Ciudadano (OAC) or the main Torrevieja Ayuntamiento (Town Hall).
Address: Plaza Cuadrado, s/n, 03181 Torrevieja
Hours: Mon–Fri 08:30–14:00 (check for updates)
Appointments can be booked via the Torrevieja town hall website or by calling the Ayuntamiento.

Documents needed

All residents must bring
  • ✓ Valid passport or national ID card
  • ✓ NIE number (must be obtained before padrón)
  • ✓ Proof of address — one of: property deed (escritura), rental contract minimum 6 months, or landlord's authorisation letter + landlord's ID
For families
  • ✓ Birth certificates for children
  • ✓ Proof of legal guardianship if applicable

The registration process

  1. Book appointment (or queue in person at the Ayuntamiento)
  2. Submit documents at the desk
  3. Receive a provisional registration certificate on the day (volante de empadronamiento)
  4. A full padrón certificate is typically issued within 15–30 days

After registration

With your padrón certificate, you can: register at your local Centro de Salud for a GP → apply for your SIP health card → enrol children in state schools → apply for the EU green certificate or TIE card. Your padrón address also determines your state school catchment area.

Frequently asked questions

NIE first, padrón second. You need a NIE to register on the padrón.
Yes. You need a signed rental contract of at least 6 months, or written authorisation from your landlord.
Certificates are issued with a date. For most official purposes, a certificate less than 3 months old is required. You can request a new one at any time.
You must update your padrón registration every time you move. Register at the new address — your old registration is cancelled automatically.

Need help with padrón registration?

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