Procedures
Procedure directory
Curated, sourced procedures across Spain's life admin categories. Each shows its confidence level and when it was last reviewed.
Apply for the digital nomad visa (telework)
Apply for your public healthcare card (tarjeta sanitaria)
The tarjeta sanitaria individual gives you access to Spain's public healthcare system.
Check your TIE renewal date
The TIE is the foreigner identity card proving your residency. It must be renewed before expiry or when your circumstances change.
Commission sworn translations (traductor jurado)
Use a traductor jurado so foreign-language documents are legally valid when submitted to Spanish authorities.
Enrol children in school
School enrolment in Spain covers public, state-subsidised (concertado) and private schools, each with its own application window.
Establish Spanish tax residency
Spanish tax residency determines where you pay tax on your worldwide income and is based on real presence and life ties.
Exchange or validate your driving licence
Some foreign driving licences can be exchanged for a Spanish licence, others must be validated or re-taken after a set period.
Get documents apostilled and legalised for use in Spain
Have foreign public documents apostilled or legally recognised so Spanish authorities accept them for residency, marriage, schooling or work.
Obtain your NIE (foreigner identification number)
The NIE is the identification number for foreigners in Spain. You need it for almost any administrative, financial or legal activity.
Open a Spanish bank account
A Spanish bank account lets you pay bills, receive salary and set up utilities in Spain.
Register a vehicle and keep the ITV up to date
Register an imported or second-hand vehicle with the DGT and maintain the ITV (Spanish MOT equivalent).
Register as self-employed (autónomo)
Registering as autónomo means signing up with social security and the tax authority to invoice and work independently.
Register on the padrón (empadronamiento)
Empadronamiento is your registration on the municipal register where you live. It is needed for healthcare, schools and many local services.
Register with Social Security (alta en la Seguridad Social)
Get your social security number (NUSS) and enrol in the system so contributions, healthcare access and payroll-related administration can begin.
Secure long-term rental accommodation
Long-term rentals in Spain typically run for a year and require documents and a deposit.
Set up utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet)
Connect utilities in your new home and keep the accounts in your name for smooth daily life.